Dr. George Rucker, MD, Family Medicine

Dr. George Rucker, MD

Family Medicine in Port St. Joe, FL

(24 reviews)

Dr. George Rucker, MD is a Family Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at his clinic in Bradenton, FL. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices... Read More Below

Accepting New Patients 25+ Years Experience
Professional Details

Dr. George Rucker, MD is a Family Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at his clinic in Bradenton, FL. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). As a partner in senior health, Dr. Rucker understands that 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. He serves adults, with a focus on those aging into and throughout their senior years. Specializing in ozone and holistic medicine, Dr. Rucker brings over 25 years of dedicated experience in Family Medicine care, a wealth of clinical knowledge, and compassionate care to his patients and their families. He earned his medical degree from the University Of Virginia School Of Medicine in 1995. Dr. Rucker's practice, Rucker Urology and Integrated Health, blends alternative therapies with traditional methods, providing a truly integrative approach for people with chronic health conditions. This unique integrative model combines the best of functional medical care with alternative and nutritional models through a synergistic medical and alternative partnership. He offers consultations in Spanish. Dr. Rucker is currently welcoming new patients; please call (941) 448-1199 to schedule an appointment.

A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. George Rucker is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.

Dr. George Rucker is a compassionate and dedicated partner in your senior health journey, offering comprehensive family medicine care tailored to your unique needs. He prioritizes understanding your personal goals and preferences, coordinating complex care, and proactively managing chronic conditions to help you maintain your independence and well-being throughout your golden years.

By working together, you, your family, and Dr. George Rucker can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.

Also Accepts These Carriers

  • Cigna
  • Cigna PPO
  • Open Access Plus

Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. George Rucker 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:

  • Urinary Stones: Kidney stones are hard deposits that can form in your kidneys, causing significant pain and discomfort, but with proper medical care and management, you can find relief and improve your quality of life.
  • Limb Pain: Persistent limb pain can affect your quality of life, making simple tasks challenging. A healthcare professional can explore various treatment options, such as medication, physical therapy, or assistive devices, to help you stay active and independent.
  • Blood in Urine (Hematuria): Blood in the urine, or hematuria, may be a sign of a urinary tract infection or other conditions that a doctor can easily diagnose and manage.
  • Joint Pain: Dealing with aching joints doesn't have to limit your daily life; many effective strategies, from exercise to over-the-counter pain relievers, can help you stay active and comfortable.
  • Restless Leg Syndrome: Characterized by unpleasant sensations in the legs and an overwhelming need to move them, restless legs syndrome can be successfully managed with medical assistance and adjustments to daily habits to maintain an active lifestyle.
  • Enlarged Prostate (BPH): An enlarged prostate isn't cancerous but can still cause bothersome urinary symptoms like frequent trips to the bathroom; various treatments are available to help manage these symptoms and maintain your independence.
  • Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): UTIs are bacterial infections of the urinary tract, often causing symptoms like frequent urination and a burning sensation, but prompt treatment with medication can ease your discomfort and prevent complications.
  • Osteoporosis: Weakened bones due to osteoporosis can affect mobility and independence, but medication, diet, and exercise tailored to your condition can greatly improve bone strength and reduce fracture risk, supporting your active lifestyle.
  • Perimenopause: Perimenopause is a natural process where a woman's body prepares for menopause, bringing about hormonal changes that can manifest as physical and emotional discomfort; through personalized care and management strategies, women can effectively address these symptoms and enjoy a healthy transition.
  • Testicular Hypofunction: Low testosterone, or testicular hypofunction, can cause symptoms like fatigue and decreased libido, but with proper medical care and potential hormone replacement, you can regain strength and enjoy a better quality of life.
  • Anemia: If you're experiencing unexplained fatigue or shortness of breath, anemia could be a factor. This condition, characterized by a low red blood cell count, is often manageable with dietary changes, supplements, or medication, allowing you to stay active and enjoy life to the fullest.
  • Rickets: Rickets is a condition where bones become soft and weak from a lack of essential vitamins and minerals; however, by working with your healthcare provider to address the underlying deficiencies, you can significantly reduce discomfort and improve your overall well-being.

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. George Rucker offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:

  • Melanoma Screening: This important check-up helps diagnose melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer, allowing for timely intervention and better health outcomes as you age.
  • Gonorrhea Screening: To maintain your sexual health, routine gonorrhea screening is a proactive measure that can help prevent serious complications associated with this STI.
  • Arrhythmia Screening: Arrhythmia screening helps detect irregular heartbeats, allowing for early intervention and management to prevent serious health complications.
  • Alcohol Misuse Screening and Counseling: Alcohol misuse screening helps your doctor assess your alcohol consumption and identify potential risks to your health as you age.
  • Prostate Cancer Screening: Including prostate cancer screening in your senior health plan allows for early diagnosis, leading to better treatment options and improved long-term health management.
  • Disability Evaluation: Disability evaluations help tailor your treatment and care plan, making sure you have the right support to address your specific needs and maintain your well-being.
  • Menopause Evaluation and Treatment: This service assists in diagnosing underlying health conditions that may be exacerbated by menopause, and supports personalized treatment plans to help seniors maintain their well-being.
  • Vasectomy: A vasectomy is a surgical procedure that can be a part of a senior's comprehensive care plan if they wish to ensure permanent birth control.
  • Herpes Simplex Screening: This simple screening test assists in creating a personalized care plan to manage herpes simplex outbreaks, minimizing discomfort and improving your quality of life.
  • Mammography: Regular mammograms are a crucial part of preventive care for women, allowing for early detection and improved treatment outcomes.
  • Rapid Flu Test: Getting a rapid flu test is a key component of proactive health management, helping you and your physician address influenza quickly and effectively.
  • Anemia and Iron Deficiency Screening: Regular anemia and iron deficiency screenings are a crucial part of your healthcare plan, helping to detect and manage conditions that can significantly impact your overall health and well-being as you age.

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. George Rucker 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 struggling with kidney stones, a senior couple found relief from the intense pain and discomfort, and were able to enjoy their daily walks again, feeling more secure and confident at home.
  • With persistent limb pain easing, a senior was able to resume daily walks in the park, a cherished pastime, significantly improving their overall well-being.
  • Concerned about blood in their urine, a senior felt reassured after a thorough evaluation and treatment plan. They were able to resume their usual activities and feel more secure about their health.

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
Education History
  • HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital Port St. Lucie (Residency Hospital)

Here are answers to some common questions about Family Medicine care with Dr. George Rucker:

How is a Family Physician suited to care for seniors?
Dr. Rucker and our practice understand that seniors have unique health needs. Family physicians like Dr. Rucker are uniquely suited to care for seniors because they often care for patients across their entire lifespan, creating a deep understanding of their health history. We are trusted primary care partners, experts in managing chronic conditions, and skilled at coordinating all aspects of a senior's care.
What happens during an annual wellness visit for a senior?
Your annual wellness visit with Dr. Rucker is a key opportunity to partner on health goals. We'll review medications, perform a physical exam, assess memory and mobility, and discuss personalized preventive screenings like bone density or cancer checks.
How should I prepare for my appointment to make the most of our time?
To make the most of your appointment with Dr. Rucker, please write down your top health questions beforehand. Bring a complete list of all your medications, including over-the-counter items. Be prepared to discuss any new symptoms, no matter how minor they may seem.
Can family members or caregivers be involved in my care?
Absolutely. With your permission, we welcome family members and caregivers to be involved in your care. This team approach helps ensure clear communication and provides the best support for your health.
How do you help with managing multiple medications?
Dr. Rucker's practice partners with you to safely manage your medications. We conduct regular reviews to check for interactions, simplify your regimen, and ensure every prescription is still needed and working for you.
How does Dr. George Rucker approach mental health concerns like anxiety or depression in seniors?
Dr. Rucker understands that mental health is crucial for overall well-being in older adults. He provides a supportive environment for discussing concerns, conducts initial assessments, manages medications, and coordinates referrals to specialists as needed.
Do you perform minor skin procedures, like removing a skin tag or mole?
Dr. Rucker's office can perform many common skin procedures, such as removing skin tags or suspicious moles for biopsy, or freezing pre-cancerous spots (actinic keratosis). This saves you time and travel, and allows for prompt diagnosis and treatment.
What is the practice's approach to fall prevention?
Fall prevention is a top priority for senior safety at Dr. Rucker's practice. We conduct fall risk assessments, review medications that may contribute to dizziness, and recommend physical therapy or home safety evaluations to help seniors stay safe and independent.

6120 State Road 70 E
Bradenton FL 34203
Phone: (941) 448-1199

Dr. George Rucker, 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): 1629009089

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. George Rucker 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.

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