Dr. Gina Prakash, MD is a Rheumatology specialist dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults (65 and over) at her clinic in Plant City, FL. Registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), she understands the unique needs of seniors and strives to be a trusted partner in their health journey. General Rheumatologists possess specialized expertise in diagnosing and managing complex rheumatic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and lupus common in seniors, working collaboratively with your primary care physician and other healthcare providers to ensure optimal care.
Dr. Gina Prakash, MD is a rheumatologist in Plant City, FL, with extensive experience in Osteoporosis & Screening. She is affiliated with St. Joseph's Hospital and is accepting new patients. She is Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine, and Board Certified in Rheumatology by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Dr. Prakash 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. She offers consultations in Hindi and is available for telehealth appointments. Please call (813) 588-4201 to schedule an appointment.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. Gina Prakash is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Gina Prakash is a compassionate and dedicated partner in your senior's health journey, offering comprehensive rheumatologic care. She meticulously diagnoses and manages complex rheumatic conditions, understanding the unique needs of aging individuals. Working collaboratively with primary care physicians and other specialists, Dr. Prakash ensures a holistic approach, focusing on personalized treatment plans that promote comfort, independence, and overall well-being for her patients.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Gina Prakash can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Aetna
Cigna
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Ambetter
- Blue Card PPO
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Choice Plus POS II
- Cigna PPO
- Curative
- Curative EPO
- Curative PPO
- Curative PPO Plus
- First Health
- First Health (Coventry Health Care) PPO
- Humana
- LocalPlus
- Open Access Plus
- Select HMO
- Superior Health Plan
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Gina Prakash 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:
- Gout: With proper treatment, gout's painful attacks can be reduced, allowing seniors to maintain their independence and enjoy a better quality of life.
- Osteoarthritis of Shoulder: Osteoarthritis in your shoulder can limit your ability to perform daily tasks, but with the right approach, including medication, exercises, and lifestyle adjustments, you can regain mobility and reduce discomfort, improving your quality of life.
- Osteoarthritis of Hand: Experiencing pain and stiffness in your hands due to osteoarthritis is common with age, but you can improve your daily life by using joint-protective techniques, managing pain with medication as advised by your doctor, and utilizing helpful tools.
- Fibromyalgia: Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition causing widespread pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbances, but with proper management, seniors can find ways to ease symptoms and maintain a better quality of life.
- Osteoarthritis of Foot: Osteoarthritis in the foot can make everyday tasks like walking and standing difficult, but with appropriate care, including pain management and supportive footwear, you can maintain your independence and continue enjoying your favorite activities.
- Osteoarthritis of Hand or Wrist: Hand and wrist osteoarthritis involves the gradual breakdown of joint cartilage, leading to discomfort and reduced mobility, but treatments like physical therapy and medication can help you manage pain and stay independent.
- Chondrocalcinosis: The presence of calcium deposits in your joint cartilage, known as chondrocalcinosis, can lead to inflammation and discomfort, but with proper management, you can maintain comfort and mobility.
- Bursitis: While bursitis can cause significant discomfort in joints, with appropriate medical care including medication and therapeutic exercises, many seniors find relief and can continue to enjoy their favorite activities.
- Lupus: Living with lupus can be challenging, but with the right medical care, including medications to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms, many seniors can maintain their independence and enjoy fulfilling lives.
- Sarcoidosis: If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with sarcoidosis, know that it's a condition involving inflammation that can impact different body systems, possibly including the joints. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving overall well-being.
- Psoriatic Arthritis: Psoriatic arthritis is an inflammatory condition linked to psoriasis skin disease, often leading to joint pain and stiffness, but effective treatments can help you stay active and independent.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis of Hand: Rheumatoid arthritis affecting your hands means experiencing inflammation, stiffness, and pain in your finger and wrist joints, making simple actions challenging. Fortunately, early diagnosis and treatment, often involving medication and adaptive aids, can help manage symptoms and slow its progression.
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. Gina Prakash offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Bone Density Scan: To assess your risk of fractures and guide treatment decisions for conditions such as osteoporosis, a bone density scan helps measure the mineral density in your bones.
- Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) Scan: A DEXA scan is a painless test using X-rays to measure bone density, helping your doctor assess your risk of osteoporosis and fractures, common concerns for seniors.
- Joint Drainage: In some cases, draining fluid from a swollen joint helps confirm a diagnosis and allows for the introduction of medication directly into the joint to speed up healing.
- Joint Fluid Test: By analyzing the fluid from your affected joint, your doctor can better understand the type of arthritis you have, tailoring your care plan to your specific needs.
- Musculoskeletal Function Test: By evaluating your physical abilities, a musculoskeletal function test helps your doctor determine the best approach to improve your mobility and daily function.
- Steroid Injection: Steroid injections can provide temporary pain relief and reduce inflammation in arthritic joints, improving mobility and quality of life for seniors.
- Epidural Block: As part of a comprehensive pain management plan for seniors, an epidural block can provide temporary pain relief, allowing for better participation in physical therapy and daily activities.
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 Rheumatology in Florida.
Dr. Gina Prakash 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 the rheumatologist's guidance, a senior was able to significantly reduce the frequency and severity of gout attacks, enabling them to resume their beloved hobby of playing mahjong with friends.
- With careful guidance on medication, exercises, and lifestyle adjustments, a senior was able to resume painting, a cherished hobby, without the debilitating shoulder pain. The family rejoiced at the improved quality of life and regained sense of normalcy.
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)
- American Board of Internal Medicine (Internal Medicine)
- American Board of Internal Medicine (Rheumatology)
Here are answers to some common questions about Rheumatologic care with Dr. Gina Prakash:
- What is a Rheumatologist?
- Dr. Prakash is a medical doctor specializing in diagnosing and treating arthritis and other diseases of the joints, muscles, and bones. She is skilled in managing complex autoimmune and inflammatory conditions to help reduce pain and improve quality of life.
- What is the difference between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis?
- Osteoarthritis is a "wear and tear" condition where cartilage in the joints breaks down over time. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, causing inflammation. Dr. Prakash is an expert in diagnosing and treating both.
- I have joint pain. Should I see a rheumatologist or an orthopedic surgeon?
- Dr. Gina Prakash, a rheumatologist, specializes in diagnosing and treating arthritis and joint pain, often using medications, injections, and non-surgical therapies. Orthopedic surgeons focus on surgical procedures like joint replacements. A rheumatologist is usually the best first step for evaluating unexplained joint pain.
- What are biologic medications or 'infusion therapy' for rheumatoid arthritis?
- Biologic medications are a newer, advanced class of treatments for rheumatoid arthritis that are very effective. Unlike general anti-inflammatories, biologics target specific parts of the immune system that cause inflammation. Some of these medications are given as an infusion in a clinic or infusion center.
- What is Sjögren's syndrome?
- Sjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune condition that most commonly causes significant dry eyes and dry mouth. It can also be associated with fatigue and joint pain. Dr. Prakash can help manage the systemic aspects of the disease and works with ophthalmologists and dentists to coordinate care and provide relief for the symptoms.
- What is gout and how is it treated?
- Gout is a very painful form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in a joint, most commonly the big toe. Treatment has two goals: managing the immediate, painful flare-up with anti-inflammatory medications, and preventing future attacks with long-term medications that lower uric acid levels in the body.
- Can you help with fibromyalgia?
- Yes, we can help with fibromyalgia. It's a complex chronic pain condition, but rheumatologists like Dr. Prakash are key specialists in managing its symptoms. Treatment focuses on a multi-faceted approach, including gentle exercise, stress management techniques, and specific medications to reduce pain and improve sleep.
- What is lupus?
- Lupus, or Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect many parts of the body. Dr. Prakash can create a personalized treatment plan to manage symptoms, control inflammation, and minimize flare-ups. While it's a complex disease, we're here to help.
1601 W Reynolds St Ste 102
Plant City FL 33563
Phone: (813) 588-4201
Dr. Gina Prakash, 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): 1659639573
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 provider named. Rheumatology like Dr. Gina Prakash 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.