Dr. Christine Behan, MD is a Family Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at Healthwise Medical Associates in Hudson, FL. She is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). Your family doctor is your primary partner in managing your health throughout your senior years, coordinating complex care, managing chronic conditions, and focusing on your overall well-being and independence to help you thrive. She serves adults, with a focus on those aging into and throughout their senior years. Dr. Behan is not currently accepting new patients, but you can call (727) 868-1943 to inquire about waitlists or future openings. Dr. Christine M. Behan graduated from New York College of Medicine and completed her Residency at Albert Einstein College of Medicine. With over 30 years of dedicated experience in Family Medicine care, she brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to her patients and their families. She earned her medical degree from New York Medical College in 1990. Following medical school, she undertook residency training in Family Medicine at Albert Einstein College of Medicine Yeshiva University, specializing in the comprehensive medical care of Adults, with a focus on those aging into and throughout their senior years. Dr. Behan 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 offers consultations in Spanish.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Christine Behan is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Christine Behan is a compassionate partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive family medicine care. She meticulously coordinates complex care, effectively manages chronic conditions, and prioritizes your overall well-being and independence. Her approach emphasizes understanding your personal needs, working collaboratively with family members, and creating a personalized plan to ensure your comfort and continued thriving.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Christine Behan can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Florida Blue
- Preferred Patient Care PPO
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Christine Behan 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:
- Atherosclerosis: Think of atherosclerosis as a slow clogging of your blood vessels; it's managed by healthy habits like eating right and staying active, and by following your doctor's treatment plan to keep your heart healthy and strong.
- Dyslipidemia: High cholesterol (dyslipidemia) is a manageable condition; with your doctor's guidance, you can use medication and lifestyle adjustments to lower your cholesterol and protect your heart health, which greatly contributes to a healthier life and better overall well-being.
- Insomnia: Experiencing insomnia means struggling to get restful sleep, leading to daytime fatigue and impacting your mood and energy levels; however, a healthcare professional can guide you towards effective management strategies.
- Obesity: For seniors, addressing obesity can help maintain independence by reducing the risk of falls and improving strength and stamina for daily tasks.
- Blood in Urine (Hematuria): While blood in your urine can be alarming, early detection and treatment by your doctor can prevent serious complications and help you feel better quickly.
- Osteopenia: If you have osteopenia, it means your bones are losing density, but with appropriate medical care including medication and a healthy lifestyle, you can slow this process and keep your bones strong.
- Nausea: If you're feeling nauseous, it's important to stay hydrated and try bland foods. Talking to your doctor can help determine the cause and find relief, improving your overall health and independence.
- COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease): COPD is a lung disease that makes it hard to breathe, but with the right treatment plan, including medication and breathing exercises, you can manage your symptoms and enjoy a more active life.
- Asthma: Asthma is a long-term lung condition that can cause wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath, but with proper management, you can breathe easier and enjoy a more active life.
- Joint Pain: Joint pain can be frustrating, but with a proper diagnosis and tailored treatment plan from your doctor, you can find relief and improve your quality of life, keeping you engaged in the activities you enjoy.
- Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism can affect your energy levels, mood, and even your heart rate, but with simple hormone replacement therapy, many people find significant relief from symptoms and increased quality of life.
- Painful Urination (Dysuria): Experiencing burning or stinging during urination can be concerning, but many effective treatments are available to reduce the pain and improve your comfort.
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. Christine Behan offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Prostate Cancer Screening: As part of your ongoing health journey, prostate cancer screening can help identify potential problems early, allowing for proactive care and better health outcomes.
- Dipstick Urinalysis: A dipstick urinalysis is a simple, quick test that checks your urine for signs of infection, kidney problems, or diabetes, helping your doctor create a personalized care plan.
- Spinal and Postural Screening: By assessing your spine and posture, your doctor can create a customized plan to improve your comfort, mobility, and overall quality of life.
- Patch Testing: This simple test can pinpoint specific substances triggering rashes or itching, allowing your doctor to recommend effective avoidance strategies as part of your ongoing care.
- Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): This blood test provides vital information about your body's acid-base balance, helping your doctor diagnose and manage various health problems, from lung disease to kidney issues, in your senior years.
- Vaginosis Screening: Vaginosis screening is an important step in maintaining a woman's reproductive health as she ages, allowing for early diagnosis and treatment of this common condition.
- Diabetic Evaluation: A comprehensive diabetic evaluation plays a key role in creating a long-term care plan that helps you effectively manage your diabetes and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
- Gonorrhea Screening: To maintain your sexual health, routine gonorrhea screening is a proactive measure that can help prevent serious complications associated with this STI.
- Disability Evaluation: Disability evaluation helps doctors understand your physical and mental limitations to create a personalized care plan that supports your independence.
- Joint Fluid Test: This simple test analyzes fluid from your joint to identify infections, arthritis, or other conditions affecting your comfort and function.
- Chlamydia Infection Screening: As part of your comprehensive health plan, chlamydia screening helps identify and manage potential infections, promoting your overall well-being.
- Pre-Operative Evaluation: By thoroughly reviewing your medical history and conducting tests, a pre-operative evaluation helps the doctor make informed decisions to optimize your surgical journey.
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 Family Medicine in Florida.
Dr. Christine Behan 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:
- With a focus on healthy eating and regular exercise, a senior felt more energized and confident in their daily activities, regaining the ability to walk comfortably with their grandchildren in the park.
- After working closely with a family medicine professional, a senior couple felt more secure in their ability to enjoy evening strolls, thanks to improved cholesterol levels. Their increased energy and mobility brought a renewed sense of joy and freedom to their daily lives.
- A senior citizen, previously plagued by restless nights and daytime fatigue, found improved sleep and increased energy after working with a healthcare professional on insomnia management strategies. They were able to reconnect with beloved hobbies and enjoy more fulfilling days.
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 Family Medicine care with Dr. Christine Behan:
- How is a Family Physician suited to care for seniors?
- Dr. Behan and her team are uniquely suited to care for seniors because they often follow patients throughout their lives, providing a deep understanding of their health history. They are experts in managing chronic conditions and coordinating all aspects of care, making them a trusted primary care partner.
- What happens during an annual wellness visit for a senior?
- During your annual wellness visit with Dr. Behan, we'll review your medications, conduct a physical exam, and assess your memory and mobility. We'll also discuss personalized preventive screenings like bone density or cancer checks, and partner with you to set health goals.
- How should I prepare for my appointment to make the most of our time?
- To make the most of your appointment with Dr. Behan, please write down your top health questions beforehand. Bring a list of all your medications, including over-the-counter ones. Be sure to discuss any new symptoms, no matter how seemingly minor.
- Can family members or caregivers be involved in my care?
- Absolutely. With your permission, we encourage family members and caregivers to be involved in your care. This team approach helps ensure clear communication and provides the best possible support for your health.
- What is the practice's approach to fall prevention?
- Fall prevention is a top priority for our practice. Dr. Behan can conduct a fall risk assessment, review medications that may contribute to dizziness, and recommend physical therapy or home safety evaluations to help you stay safe and independent.
- Can you help manage joint pain from arthritis?
- Yes, Dr. Behan's practice can help manage joint pain from arthritis. Family physicians are often the first point of contact for arthritis management, and treatment may include advice on safe exercises, anti-inflammatory medications, and sometimes joint injections to improve mobility and reduce pain.
- How do you help manage multiple chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease?
- Dr. Behan works with you to create a personalized plan, acting as your central coordinator. This plan includes regular monitoring, medication management, and lifestyle counseling to help manage your conditions and prevent complications, all while maintaining your quality of life.
- Can I come in for urgent issues like a fall, a bad cold, or a UTI?
- Yes, Dr. Behan and her staff are happy to see you for urgent issues like a fall, cold, or UTI. Seeing your primary care physician is ideal because we know your health history and medications. Our practice can treat common ailments, helping you avoid unnecessary trips to urgent care.
Healthwise Medical Associates
14153 Yosemite Dr Ste 104
Hudson FL 34667
Phone: (727) 868-1943
Dr. Christine Behan, 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): 1184619256
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. Family Medicine like Dr. Christine Behan 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.