Dr. Christopher Rittman, DO is an Internal Medicine physician practicing at his clinic in Lynn Haven, FL, dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care for older adults. He is a registered member of The Florida Board of Medicine and adheres to Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). As your internist, he 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. While he is not currently accepting new patients, you can call (850) 265-3606 to inquire about waitlists or future openings.
Dr. Christopher Rittman, DO is an internist in Lynn Haven, FL, with over 30 years of experience in the medical field. He earned his medical degree from Western University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific in 1994. He is affiliated with HCA Florida Gulf Coast Hospital and Ascension Sacred Heart Bay. With this extensive experience, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. Dr. Rittman is committed to collaborative, evidence-based medicine, creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. He provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Christopher Rittman is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Christopher Rittman is a compassionate and dedicated partner in your senior health journey. He provides comprehensive internal medicine care, meticulously coordinating complex medical needs and managing chronic conditions. His focus is on your overall well-being and independence, ensuring you thrive as you age, with a deep understanding of your personal goals and needs.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Christopher Rittman can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Blue Card High Performance Network HPN (HPN)
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- BlueCard PPO (PPO)
- BlueCare HMO (HMO)
- BlueOptions
- BlueSelect
- CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
- Cigna
- Cigna PPO (PPO)
- Florida Blue
- HealthyBlue Advantage
- Open Access Plus
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Christopher Rittman 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:
- Hypothyroidism: Having hypothyroidism means your thyroid gland isn't making enough crucial hormones, leading to fatigue and other issues, however, daily medication can help you regain your vitality and maintain your independence.
- Esophagitis: Esophagitis is a condition where the lining of your esophagus becomes inflamed, leading to pain and difficulty swallowing, but manageable with medication and dietary adjustments to improve your eating experience and overall comfort.
- Enlarged Prostate (BPH): Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-cancerous prostate enlargement that often causes frequent urination, weak urine stream, and nighttime bathroom trips; however, effective treatments are available to ease these symptoms.
- Nausea: Nausea is that queasy, uneasy feeling in your stomach that can make you feel like you might vomit.
- Prostatitis: Experiencing pain or difficulty urinating? Prostatitis, an inflammation of the prostate, may be the cause, and a doctor can help find the right treatment plan to ease your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
- Congestive Heart Failure: Experiencing shortness of breath or swelling? CHF might be the cause, but a doctor can create a treatment plan to help you feel better and live more comfortably.
- Intestinal Diverticulitis: Intestinal diverticulitis is a condition where small pouches in your intestines become inflamed or infected, causing discomfort but often manageable with medical care and lifestyle changes.
- Nasopharyngitis: Dealing with nasopharyngitis (a cold) can be frustrating, but it's typically a self-limiting illness meaning it resolves without specific treatment. Managing symptoms with rest and over-the-counter medications can help improve your comfort and well-being.
- Anemia: Feeling unusually tired or weak? Anemia might be the cause, as it involves a deficiency of red blood cells; your doctor can help determine the underlying reason and develop a treatment plan to improve your strength and daily functioning.
- Diabetes: If you have diabetes, it's important to understand your condition and work with your healthcare team to develop a personalized plan that helps you control your blood sugar and prevent long-term health problems, enabling you to continue doing the things you love.
- Hypoxemia: Hypoxemia means your blood isn't getting enough oxygen, which can leave you feeling tired and short of breath, but with proper treatment, like oxygen therapy, you can breathe easier and enjoy more energy.
- Headache: Experiencing headaches? Don't let them control your day; a simple chat with your doctor can help find the cause and determine the best treatment to relieve your pain.
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 Rittman 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.
- Breath Testing: Breath testing can help your doctor monitor the effectiveness of your treatment plan for certain chronic conditions, ensuring you receive optimal care.
- Electrocardiogram (EKG): An EKG is a vital tool in monitoring the effectiveness of your heart medication and adjusting your treatment plan as needed, optimizing your heart health and overall quality of life.
- Fecal Occult Blood Test for Colorectal Cancer: A fecal occult blood test is a simple screening tool that can help detect hidden blood in your stool, an early sign that might indicate colorectal cancer.
- Immunization: Getting vaccinated helps manage your risk of developing preventable diseases, allowing you to enjoy a higher quality of life as you age.
- Immunization Administration: Through timely immunizations, we can help prevent hospitalizations and complications related to infectious diseases, keeping seniors healthier and more active.
- Joint Injection: Joint injections are sometimes used to diagnose the cause of joint pain by observing the response to injected medication, aiding in creating a tailored treatment strategy.
- Spirometry: Spirometry is a key tool in creating a personalized care plan for managing your breathing difficulties, helping you breathe easier and live more comfortably.
- Urinalysis: To help manage your overall health, a urinalysis can detect early signs of urinary tract infections, diabetes, or other conditions affecting your urinary system.
- Vaccination: Vaccinations help safeguard seniors against preventable diseases, empowering them to live healthier, more active lives and reducing their healthcare burden.
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 Rittman 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 starting a daily medication regimen, a senior felt a noticeable improvement in energy levels and was able to resume her beloved knitting hobby, a cherished activity. Her family felt relieved and secure knowing she was feeling better, and more capable around the house.
- Mrs. Hernandez's experience with esophagitis significantly improved with the help of a tailored treatment plan, including medication and dietary changes. She was able to enjoy meals comfortably again and rediscovered the pleasure of eating her favorite foods.
- After seeing an internal medicine specialist, a man found significant relief from frequent nighttime bathroom trips and a stronger urine stream, allowing him to sleep more soundly and feel more secure at home.
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)
Here are answers to some common questions about Internal Medicine care with Dr. Christopher Rittman:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Dr. Rittman and his team are internists, specializing in the medical care of adults. They are primary care doctors who focus exclusively on adult health issues, including the complex health concerns that often arise with aging. They are skilled in managing chronic conditions and coordinating care with other specialists.
- Does Dr. Christopher Rittman have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Dr. Rittman 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 frequently affecting seniors.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Rittman and our practice believe in a team approach to care. We welcome the participation of family members and caregivers, with the patient's consent, to ensure clear communication and support throughout the care planning process. Their involvement is valuable to us.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Christopher Rittman?
- To prepare for your appointment with Dr. Rittman, 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 contacting your pharmacy directly. Please allow 2-3 business days for requests to be processed.
- Does the practice accept Medicare?
- Our practice accepts Medicare. To ensure we are in-network with your particular plan, please call the number on your insurance card or contact our billing office for assistance.
- What is the practice's approach to discussing memory concerns or cognitive changes?
- Dr. Rittman and our team understand that memory concerns can be worrisome. We provide a safe and supportive environment to discuss these concerns, offer initial cognitive screenings, and can coordinate referrals to specialists if needed.
- What is your philosophy on maintaining quality of life for patients with serious illnesses?
- Dr. Rittman'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 always paramount.
621 Florida Ave
Lynn Haven FL 32444
Phone: (850) 265-3606
Dr. Christopher Rittman, DO 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): 1235281767
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 Rittman 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.