Dr. Christopher Bray, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at his clinic in Gainesville, FL. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). As a trusted partner in senior health, Dr. Bray understands the unique needs of this population. 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. He primarily serves older adults (65 and older), but also includes younger adults with complex medical needs. He is currently welcoming new patients, so please call (352) 333-5700 to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Bray's commitment to senior care stems from his extensive training and experience. Christopher L. Bray, MD, PhD, is on faculty at UCF College of Medicine and is employed with HCA. His rigorous medical training includes a medical degree and a PhD in molecular genetics and stem cell biology from the University of Florida, followed by an internship and residency in Internal Medicine at the same institution. He is Board Certified in Integrative Medicine by the American Board of Physician Specialties, and Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Dr. Bray's dedication to the care and improvement of the human life, combined with his deep understanding of the aging process, makes him a valuable resource for your health journey. He is recognized by AOA for his high educational achievements, support of the ideals of humanism, and promotion of service to others. He enjoys guiding patients towards a healthier lifestyle and diet thus preventing and improving the expensive chronic diseases that plague our country. He also enjoys teaching and participating in research within the resident physician training program. Dr. Christopher Bray provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Christopher Bray is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Christopher Bray partners with seniors to navigate the complexities of aging health. He provides comprehensive internal medicine care, focusing on managing chronic conditions and promoting overall well-being. His compassionate approach prioritizes patient-centered care, ensuring coordination of complex medical needs and a plan to maintain independence and comfort throughout the aging process.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Christopher Bray can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Aetna
Anthem
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida
Cigna
Coventry Health Care
Federal Employee Program (FEP)
Humana
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Ambetter
- AvMed
- Blue Card
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield
- CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Choice Care (Humana)
- Choice Plus
- ChoiceCare Network
- First Health
- First Health (Coventry Health Care)
- Great West Healthcare-Cigna
- Group Plan
- Healthfirst
- HealthyBlue 2.0
- HealthyBlue Advantage
- MultiPlan
- MultiPlan PPO (PPO)
- Open Access
- PHCS Network
- Superior Health Plan
- United Healthcare
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Christopher Bray 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:
- Heartburn: That burning feeling in your chest, often called heartburn, is a common problem that can be controlled with simple adjustments to your diet and possibly some medication, allowing you to enjoy your meals and activities more comfortably.
- Depressive Disorders: Depression in older adults can impact energy levels, making everyday tasks more challenging, but working with a doctor to find the right treatment plan—including medication, lifestyle changes, and support groups—can help maintain independence and improve quality of life.
- Warts: Warts, caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), can be successfully treated with various methods, helping you maintain your independence and self-esteem.
- Chronic Depression (Dysthymia): Chronic depression, also known as dysthymia, is a persistent low mood that can affect daily life, but with treatment like therapy and medication, you can manage symptoms and enjoy a better quality of life.
- Pharyngitis: While a sore throat (pharyngitis) can be bothersome, especially for older adults, simple treatments like gargling with salt water and drinking warm liquids can often provide significant relief.
- Hypokalemia: Having low potassium levels, or hypokalemia, can impact your daily life, causing fatigue and muscle weakness. With the right approach, including diet modifications and medication if needed, you can restore your potassium levels and enhance your quality of life.
- Noninfectious Gastroenteritis and Colitis: Sometimes, the stomach and intestines become inflamed without an infection, causing noninfectious gastroenteritis and colitis; gentle dietary changes and medication can alleviate symptoms and help you feel better, promoting independence.
- 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.
- Intestinal Diverticulitis: Diverticulitis, an inflammation of small pouches in your digestive tract, can be treated effectively with medication and dietary adjustments to help you stay comfortable and maintain your daily activities.
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs): STDs are infections spread through sexual activity, and even though they're often associated with younger people, older adults can still contract them. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing symptoms and preventing long-term health problems.
- Indigestion: Feeling bloated, burning, or generally uncomfortable in your upper abdomen? Indigestion is often manageable through dietary changes and medication, allowing you to enjoy your meals without discomfort and retain your active lifestyle.
- Sickle Cell Disease: Sickle cell disease is a blood disorder where abnormal red blood cells can block blood flow, causing pain and organ damage, but with proper medical care, many individuals can live long and fulfilling lives.
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. Christopher Bray offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Preventive Care: Preventive care helps identify potential health problems early, allowing for timely intervention and better management of chronic conditions.
- Breast Exam: By incorporating breast exams into your health routine, you empower yourself to take an active role in managing your well-being and identifying potential problems.
- Immunization: Immunization is a crucial preventive measure that protects seniors from serious illnesses like influenza and pneumonia, helping them stay healthier and more active.
- Vaccination: Staying up-to-date with vaccinations is a key component of a comprehensive care plan for seniors, helping manage and prevent infections that can complicate existing conditions.
- Care Coordination for Complex Conditions and Procedures: Care coordination creates a personalized plan that addresses all aspects of a senior's health, improving their quality of life and preventing complications.
- Bone Density Scan: By measuring bone density, this scan helps your doctor determine if medications or lifestyle changes are needed to protect you from fractures.
- Electrocardiogram (EKG): As part of your routine checkup, an EKG can help identify early signs of heart disease, allowing for proactive management of your condition and improve your overall well-being.
- Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): To create a personalized care plan, your doctor may order an arterial blood gas test to accurately assess your respiratory and overall health.
- Fecal Occult Blood Test for Colorectal Cancer: To support your overall health, a fecal occult blood test is used to screen for colorectal cancer, allowing for early intervention and better health management.
- Pap Smear: Regular Pap smears are a crucial part of preventive care, helping to identify precancerous changes before they become serious health problems.
- Menopause Evaluation and Treatment: This service offers a range of treatment options, including hormone therapy and lifestyle modifications, to help women manage menopause symptoms and maintain their quality of life.
- Cancer Counseling: Through counseling, seniors can develop strategies for managing the side effects of cancer treatment and improving their quality of life.
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. Christopher Bray 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 a consultation with a medical professional, a senior citizen found relief from bothersome heartburn, allowing them to enjoy their favorite meals and spend more time with family without discomfort.
- Feeling less isolated and more energetic, a senior was able to rejoin a weekly book club, reconnecting with friends and enjoying stimulating conversations.
- A senior citizen, bothered by warts, found relief and a renewed sense of confidence after treatment, enabling them to resume their favorite hobby of gardening without discomfort.
These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results vary and depend on many factors specific to each person. He 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)
- American Board of Physician Specialties (Integrative Medicine)
- American Board of Internal Medicine (Internal Medicine)
Here are answers to some common questions about Internal Medicine care with Dr. Christopher Bray:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Internists, like Dr. Bray, are primary care doctors who specialize in adult health. They are experts in the many health issues that commonly affect older adults, including managing chronic conditions and coordinating care with other specialists.
- Does Dr. Christopher Bray have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Dr. Bray is an internist, specializing in adult medicine, and has extensive experience treating the unique health needs of older adults. He is knowledgeable about the conditions commonly affecting seniors and is well-equipped to provide comprehensive care.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Bray and our practice believe in a team approach to care. We welcome the participation of family members and caregivers, with the patient's permission, as their input is invaluable for clear communication and support.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Christopher Bray?
- To prepare for your first appointment with Dr. Bray, 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 discuss.
- How do I request a prescription refill?
- The easiest way to request a refill is through our patient portal or by calling 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?
- Dr. Bray's practice prioritizes a patient-centered approach. We aim to manage symptoms effectively, align treatment plans with each patient's personal values and goals, and ensure comfort and dignity are paramount throughout care.
- How does Dr. Christopher Bray help patients manage their blood pressure?
- Dr. Bray's approach to managing blood pressure involves regular monitoring, personalized lifestyle counseling (including diet and exercise recommendations), and a customized treatment plan to help patients achieve and maintain healthy blood pressure levels.
7485 SW 17th Rd
Gainesville FL 32607
Phone: (352) 333-5700
Dr. Christopher Bray, 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): 1740487271
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. Christopher Bray 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.