Dr. Don Buswell-Charkow, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at his clinic in Ocoee, 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. Buswell-Charkow 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. Please call (407) 877-2111 to confirm if he is currently accepting new patients.
Dr. Don Buswell-Charkow, MD is an internist in Ocoee, FL, affiliated with Orlando Health-Health Central Hospital and Orlando Health South Lake Hospital. He earned his medical degree from Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School Of Medicine and is Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Dr. Buswell-Charkow is committed to a collaborative, evidence-based approach to medicine, creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. He strives to understand each individual's unique circumstances and preferences, fostering a partnership that promotes well-being and peace of mind. Dr. Don Buswell-Charkow provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Don Buswell-Charkow is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Buswell-Charkow is a compassionate and dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care. He meticulously coordinates complex care, manages chronic conditions, and focuses on your overall well-being and independence, ensuring you thrive as you age. His approach prioritizes understanding your individual needs and goals, fostering open communication with you and your family to create a personalized plan that maximizes comfort and independence throughout your life.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Don Buswell-Charkow can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- AvMed
- Choice Large Group POS (POS)
- Small Group Elect HMO (HMO)
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Don Buswell-Charkow 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:
- Tinnitus: Tinnitus is a common problem, especially among older adults, where you experience a ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound in your ears even without an external noise source, and managing it can help improve your sleep and overall well-being.
- Swine Flu: Swine flu, or influenza A (H1N1), is a respiratory infection that can cause fever, cough, and body aches, but with prompt medical attention and rest, it can be effectively managed to minimize discomfort and allow you to recover quickly.
- Herpes Zoster Without Complication: Herpes zoster, commonly known as shingles, is a viral infection that can cause a painful, blistering rash; prompt medical attention helps shorten the duration and severity of symptoms.
- Viral Enteritis: If you suspect viral enteritis, focus on replacing lost fluids to avoid dehydration and contact your doctor if symptoms are severe or persist, ensuring you receive appropriate care and support.
- Folic Acid Deficiency: Folic acid is vital for healthy blood cell production, and a shortage can result in fatigue and weakness; thankfully, dietary changes or supplements can often correct this deficiency, helping you feel more vibrant.
- Urinary Hesitancy: Urinary hesitancy, a delay in starting urination, can be resolved or significantly improved with proper diagnosis and treatment, helping you avoid accidents and maintain your dignity.
- Dry Skin: Maintaining healthy skin as we get older is important, and managing dry skin often involves adjusting your skincare routine and staying well-hydrated, improving overall well-being.
- Acute Venous Embolism Thrombosis: Think of it as a blockage in a vein, often in your leg, that can cause pain and swelling; this is a serious condition requiring urgent medical attention to prevent further complications and maintain your overall health and well-being.
- Bedsores: With careful attention and treatment, bedsores can heal, reducing discomfort and restoring your ability to engage in activities that matter to you.
- Atrophic Vaginitis: Many women experience atrophic vaginitis, a thinning and dryness of the vaginal lining, after menopause; this can be addressed with estrogen creams, vaginal moisturizers, or other options to relieve discomfort and improve overall well-being.
- Dermatitis Due to Substances Taken Internally: If you experience a skin rash that might be related to what you've eaten or taken, it could be dermatitis due to internal substances; proper diagnosis and management by your doctor will ensure quicker recovery and help you feel better.
- 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.
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. Don Buswell-Charkow offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Abscess or Fluid Incision and Drainage: Draining an abscess or fluid collection helps clear infections and reduce discomfort, supporting your overall health and well-being.
- Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): An arterial blood gas test helps your doctor understand how well your lungs are working and how your body is managing oxygen and carbon dioxide.
- Care Coordination for Complex Conditions and Procedures: This service helps diagnose and manage the interaction of multiple chronic conditions, reducing the risk of adverse events and improving overall wellness.
- 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.
- Fecal Occult Blood Test for Colorectal Cancer: By detecting microscopic blood in your stool, the fecal occult blood test plays a critical role in early diagnosis and management of colorectal cancer, a common concern for seniors.
- Human Papillomavirus DNA Testing: HPV DNA testing contributes to your ongoing cancer prevention efforts by enabling early detection of the virus, leading to timely interventions and improved health outcomes.
- Immunization Administration: Through timely immunizations, we can help prevent hospitalizations and complications related to infectious diseases, keeping seniors healthier and more active.
- Pap Smear: Regular Pap smears are a crucial part of preventive care, helping to identify precancerous changes before they become serious health problems.
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. Don Buswell-Charkow 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:
- A senior couple found significant relief from disruptive tinnitus, enabling them to enjoy evening walks again and reconnect with their shared hobby of birdwatching.
- After experiencing debilitating symptoms from swine flu, a senior felt significant relief with the guidance of a medical professional. Rest and medication allowed the individual to resume their beloved daily walks with family.
- With the guidance of a knowledgeable medical professional, a senior was able to manage the discomfort of shingles effectively and quickly return to enjoying their beloved hobby of playing the piano.
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 Internal Medicine (Internal Medicine)
Here are answers to some common questions about Internal Medicine care with Dr. Don Buswell-Charkow:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Dr. Buswell-Charkow's practice specializes in internal medicine for adults. Internists are primary care doctors who focus exclusively on adult health, making them uniquely qualified to address the diverse health concerns that often accompany aging. They are experts in managing chronic conditions and coordinating care with other specialists as needed.
- Does Dr. Don Buswell-Charkow have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Dr. Buswell-Charkow is an internist, meaning he is specifically trained in adult medicine and has extensive experience managing the health needs of older patients, including conditions common in later life.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Buswell-Charkow and our practice strongly believe in a team approach. We welcome the participation of family members and caregivers, with the patient's permission, as their input is invaluable for clear communication and support throughout care planning.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Don Buswell-Charkow?
- 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?
- 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.
- How does Dr. Don Buswell-Charkow approach managing type 2 diabetes?
- Dr. Buswell-Charkow takes a comprehensive approach to managing type 2 diabetes, focusing on medication management, regular blood sugar monitoring, and crucial lifestyle counseling. This includes personalized dietary recommendations, exercise plans, and detailed foot care instructions to help patients effectively control their condition and improve overall well-being.
- How does Dr. Don Buswell-Charkow help patients manage their blood pressure?
- Dr. Buswell-Charkow takes a comprehensive approach to managing blood pressure, encompassing regular monitoring, personalized lifestyle counseling (diet and exercise), and a tailored plan to help patients achieve and maintain healthy levels.
11140 W Colonial Dr Ste 1
Ocoee FL 34761
Phone: (407) 877-2111
Dr. Don Buswell-Charkow, 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): 1679557169
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. Don Buswell-Charkow 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.