Dr. Charmaine Carter, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at her clinic in Saint Petersburg, FL. Registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458, she understands the unique health needs of seniors. Your internist serves as your primary healthcare partner, coordinating complex care, managing chronic conditions, and focusing on your overall well-being and independence to help you thrive as you age. She serves primarily older adults (65 and older), but also includes younger adults with complex medical needs, and is currently welcoming new patients. Please call (727) 894-1818 to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Charmaine Carter, MD is an internist in Saint Petersburg, FL with over 30 years of experience in the medical field. She earned her medical degree from Brown University in 1990 and is affiliated with St. Joseph's Hospital. With this extensive experience, she brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to her patients and their families. Dr. Carter is committed to collaborative, evidence-based medicine, creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. She strives to understand each individual's unique needs and concerns, ensuring a personalized approach to care. Dr. Charmaine Carter provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Charmaine Carter is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Charmaine Carter is a compassionate and dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care tailored to your individual needs. She expertly manages chronic conditions, coordinates complex care, and prioritizes your overall well-being and independence, ensuring you can thrive as you age. Her approach emphasizes understanding your personal goals and creating a plan that maximizes comfort and independence, fostering a strong partnership based on trust and shared decision-making.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Charmaine Carter can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Cigna
- Cigna HMO (HMO)
- Cigna PPO (PPO)
- LocalPlus
- Open Access Plus
- Seamless HMO (HMO)
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Charmaine Carter provides expert, compassionate care for a range of conditions common in older adults, with a focus on managing symptoms and maintaining function. Common areas of focus include:
- Acute Sinusitis: When your sinuses become inflamed and infected, resulting in acute sinusitis, you might experience headaches, stuffiness, and a runny nose; your doctor can help manage these symptoms and prevent complications.
- ADHD and-or ADD: ADHD and ADD are conditions that can make it hard to focus, stay organized, and control impulses, but with proper treatment, such as medication and therapy, seniors can significantly improve their daily lives and maintain independence.
- Hypokalemia: Hypokalemia means you have a deficiency of potassium in your blood, leading to symptoms like muscle weakness and tiredness; your doctor can help you manage this through dietary changes, medication, or both, allowing you to maintain your independence.
- Hair Loss: Thinning hair can impact your self-image, but with proper diagnosis, your doctor can often find the underlying cause and suggest ways to manage it, improving your overall well-being.
- Gas-Bloat Syndrome: If you're struggling with excessive gas and bloating, know that gas-bloat syndrome is manageable. Simple changes and, if needed, medical interventions can ease symptoms and help you enjoy a better quality of life.
- Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema): Atopic dermatitis, or eczema, is a common skin condition causing itchy, dry, and inflamed skin, often manageable with creams and ointments to improve comfort and prevent scratching.
- Perimenopause: Perimenopause is the phase before menopause where a woman's body starts to produce less estrogen, potentially leading to symptoms like hot flashes, weight changes, and decreased libido; your doctor can help find solutions to manage these symptoms and ensure a smoother transition.
- Animal Allergies: Dealing with animal allergies can be challenging, but with the right strategies such as allergy medication, regular cleaning, and possibly avoiding direct contact with pets, you can maintain a good quality of life and enjoy the company of furry friends from a safe distance.
- Obesity: Obesity is a condition where you have more body fat than is healthy, potentially causing joint pain and other issues, yet a tailored treatment strategy can ease these symptoms and enhance your comfort.
- Symptomatic Menopause: Many women experience uncomfortable symptoms during menopause, such as irregular periods and mood swings. Working with a doctor to find the right approach, whether it's hormone therapy or alternative treatments, can make a big difference in managing those symptoms.
- Hyperlipidemia: If you have hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol), it's important to know that it's a common condition treatable with diet changes, exercise, and sometimes medication. These changes can help protect your heart and maintain your overall well-being.
- Hernia: If you have a bulge or discomfort in your abdomen, you might have a hernia, a condition where an organ pushes through a weakened area; medical intervention, which could involve minimally invasive surgery, may be needed to prevent serious complications.
This list highlights some common health concerns and is for informational purposes. An accurate diagnosis and a personalized care plan can only be developed through a direct consultation with a qualified medical professional based on your specific health history.
To provide comprehensive and person-centered care, Dr. Charmaine Carter offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): By measuring oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in your blood, an arterial blood gas test helps your doctor monitor the effectiveness of your treatment for lung or heart problems.
- Electrocardiogram (EKG): To create a personalized care plan, your doctor may use an EKG to detect irregularities in your heartbeat, such as an abnormal rhythm or signs of a heart attack, ensuring you receive the most appropriate treatment.
- Immunization Administration: Immunization administration is a crucial preventive care step to protect seniors from vaccine-preventable diseases, helping them maintain their health and independence.
- Pap Smear: This quick test can help manage your risk of cervical cancer by detecting abnormal cells early, enabling prompt intervention.
- Ultrasound, Esophageal: To ensure the best care plan for your digestive health, an esophageal ultrasound provides detailed images of your esophagus, helping detect problems early.
- Endotracheal Intubation: Endotracheal intubation is a procedure where a tube is inserted into the windpipe to help a senior breathe, often used during emergencies or when severe breathing problems occur.
- Hormone Replacement Therapy: As part of a comprehensive care plan, HRT may be considered to address hormone imbalances that contribute to bone loss and increase the risk of fractures in older adults.
Service availability can change. To understand which services are appropriate for your specific health needs, please schedule a consultation to develop a personalized care plan.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Internal Medicine in Florida.
Dr. Charmaine Carter is dedicated to partnering with older adults and their families to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how compassionate care can make a tangible difference in a patient's life:
- After several days of throbbing headaches and a stuffy nose, a senior felt a significant improvement in their quality of life, thanks to a personalized treatment plan that addressed their acute sinusitis. They were able to return to their beloved hobby of knitting without the persistent discomfort.
- With medication and therapy, a senior felt a significant reduction in their restlessness and impulsivity, allowing them to finally engage in hobbies they'd put aside for years. The family felt a renewed sense of calm and security in their home environment.
- With a personalized treatment plan, a senior felt less fatigued and more capable of enjoying their daily walks, regaining a cherished aspect of their independent lifestyle.
These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results vary and depend on many factors specific to each person. She will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.
- Primary Location:
Practice
3801 E Highway 98 Ste 100100, Port St. Joe, FL, 32456
Phone: (850) 229-5752
View on Map
- HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital Port St. Lucie (Residency Hospital)
Here are answers to some common questions about Internal Medicine care with Dr. Charmaine Carter:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Dr. Charmaine Carter's practice specializes in internal medicine, which means she's a primary care doctor who focuses exclusively on adult health. She's expertly trained to address the many health issues that can occur with aging, including managing chronic conditions and coordinating your care with other specialists as needed.
- Does Dr. Charmaine Carter have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Dr. Carter's practice specializes in adult medicine, including the specific needs of older adults. She has extensive experience managing the health concerns common in later life, and is well-equipped to provide comprehensive care.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Carter's practice believes in a team approach and welcomes the participation of family members and caregivers, with the patient's permission. Their involvement is valuable for ensuring clear communication and support throughout the care process.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Charmaine Carter?
- To prepare for your appointment with Dr. Carter, please bring a list of all your current medications (including doses and over-the-counter supplements), a summary of your medical history, your insurance information, and any specific questions or concerns you'd like to address.
- How do I request a prescription refill?
- The easiest way to request a refill is through our patient portal or by contacting your pharmacy directly. Please allow 2-3 business days for requests to be processed. If you have any questions, please call our office.
- Does the practice accept Medicare?
- Yes, our practice proudly accepts Medicare. We are committed to providing high-quality care for our senior patients. We recommend contacting our office to confirm details about your specific plan.
- What is your philosophy on maintaining quality of life for patients with serious illnesses?
- Our philosophy centers on providing personalized care, managing symptoms effectively, and aligning treatment with each patient's unique values and goals. We prioritize comfort, dignity, and a high quality of life for all our patients.
- Does your office help with preventive care like flu shots and other immunizations?
- Dr. Carter's office is dedicated to preventive care, including essential adult immunizations like annual flu shots. We also help patients stay current on recommended screenings to maintain their health.
12450 Roosevelt Blvd N Ste 308
Saint Petersburg FL 33716
Phone: (727) 894-1818
Dr. Charmaine Carter, MD is regulated by the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice) in Florida and is licensed by The Florida Board of Medicine.
National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1407841182
Registration can typically be verified through The Florida Board of Medicine website or by direct inquiry.
The information on this profile, provided by infoaging.org, is for general informational purposes and to help you connect with healthcare partners for yourself or a loved one. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the physician named. Internal Medicine like Dr. Charmaine Carter are skilled in helping seniors and their families navigate their health journey. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. Always consult with a qualified medical professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your care plan.