Dr. Heather Samuelson, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at her clinic in Arcadia, FL. As your trusted internist, she serves as a 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. She is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). She primarily serves older adults (65 and older), but also includes younger adults with complex medical needs. Please call (863) 494-6222 to confirm if she is currently accepting new patients.
Dr. Heather Samuelson, MD is an internist in Arcadia, FL, with over 10 years of experience in the medical field. She earned her medical degree from St. Georges University School of Medicine in 2011 and is Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine, and Board Certified in Pediatrics by the American Board of Pediatrics. This wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care, coupled with her affiliation with HCA Florida Blake Hospital and HCA Florida Englewood Hospital, makes her a valuable partner in your health journey. She is committed to a collaborative, evidence-based approach to medicine, fostering a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. She is accepting telehealth appointments. Dr. Samuelson provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Heather Samuelson is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Heather Samuelson is a compassionate and dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care tailored to your individual needs. She expertly coordinates complex care, effectively manages chronic conditions, and prioritizes your overall well-being and independence, ensuring you thrive as you age. Her approach emphasizes understanding your personal goals and creating a personalized plan to maximize your comfort and quality of life.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Heather Samuelson can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Aetna
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Blue Card High Performance Network HPN (HPN)
- Blue Card PPO (PPO)
- Blue Choice HMO (HMO)
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Georgia
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida
- Blue Preferred Patient Care PPO (PPO)
- Blue Select PPO (PPO)
- BlueOptions HMO (HMO)
- Choice Plus POS (POS)
- Choice Plus POS II (POS II)
- Cigna
- Curative
- Curative EPO (EPO)
- Curative PPO (PPO)
- Curative PPO Plus (PPO Plus)
- Elect Choice (Open Access) EPO (EPO)
- First Health
- First Health (Coventry Health Care) PPO (PPO)
- Florida Blue
- Inc. d/b/a Florida Blue
- Managed Choice (Open Access) POS (POS)
- Medica Choice
- Navigate HMO (HMO)
- Navigate POS (POS)
- Nexus Open Access
- Open Access Plus
- Open Choice PPO (PPO)
- Options PPO (PPO)
- Preferred Patient Care
- Premier Care Network Plus - Innovation Health
- SimplyBlue HMO (HMO)
- UnitedHealthCare
- myBlue EPO (EPO)
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Heather Samuelson 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:
- Nausea: Experiencing nausea can be distressing, but thankfully there are many ways to manage it and improve your comfort.
- Benign Chronic Pain Syndrome: If you're dealing with ongoing pain that isn't linked to a serious illness, it may be benign chronic pain syndrome. Treatment focuses on pain relief and improving your daily activities.
- Scabies: Scabies is a highly contagious skin infestation caused by tiny mites that burrow under the skin, causing intense itching and a rash; prompt treatment with prescribed medication can quickly relieve the itching and clear the infestation.
- Ringworm: Ringworm is a skin infection caused by a fungus, resulting in a scaly, itchy rash; your doctor can provide an effective antifungal treatment to resolve this and improve your daily well-being.
- Dehydration: Dehydration can make everyday tasks feel more difficult, but by staying well-hydrated and possibly working with your doctor to find the root cause, you can regain strength and easily maintain your daily routines.
- Heart Disease: Many heart conditions, such as high blood pressure or narrowed arteries, can be treated effectively with medication and lifestyle adjustments to ensure you enjoy a full and comfortable life.
- Sinusitis: Experiencing facial pain, pressure, and a blocked nose might indicate sinusitis, an inflammation of your sinuses; your doctor can help determine the best course of action, easing your discomfort and improving your well-being.
- Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): While a TIA doesn't cause permanent brain damage, it's a serious warning sign of a possible stroke. Acting quickly with medical attention after experiencing TIA symptoms can significantly reduce your risk of future strokes and help you maintain your active lifestyle.
- Conduct Disorder: Understanding conduct disorder, even if not directly experienced, can help caregivers better support family members who may struggle with similar behavioral challenges, fostering stronger family connections and a calmer environment.
- Bronchospasm: If you have bronchospasm, it means your breathing tubes are becoming narrow, causing you to struggle for breath, but a personalized treatment plan can help you breathe easier and enjoy a better quality of life.
- Eczema and Contact Dermatitis: Managing eczema and contact dermatitis involves identifying and avoiding triggers like soaps or certain fabrics, using prescribed creams or ointments to relieve itching and prevent infection, and improving overall skin health and well-being.
- Acute Sinusitis: Experiencing sinus pain, congestion, and headaches may indicate acute sinusitis, a common infection easily managed with a doctor's guidance using medication or home remedies to promote healing and maintain comfort.
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. Heather Samuelson offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- 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: Care coordination creates a personalized plan that addresses all aspects of a senior's health, improving their quality of life and preventing complications.
- Electrocardiogram (EKG): To create a personalized care plan, your doctor may use an EKG to detect irregularities in your heartbeat, such as an abnormal rhythm or signs of a heart attack, ensuring you receive the most appropriate treatment.
- Immunization Administration: Regular immunization updates ensure that seniors' immune systems are adequately prepared to fight infections, significantly contributing to their quality of life.
- GERD Treatment: Through GERD treatment, your doctor can help determine the best approach to managing your symptoms and preventing complications.
- Couples Therapy: For seniors facing relationship difficulties, couples therapy offers a structured approach to identify and address relationship problems, improving mental and emotional health.
- Health Risk Assessment: It's a proactive step to help you and your doctor work together to improve your overall well-being and maintain independence.
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. Heather Samuelson 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:
- The senior felt a significant reduction in nausea episodes after implementing the personalized management plan, allowing her to enjoy her favorite meals and spend more time with her family.
- With guidance from the internal medicine specialist, the senior couple found relief from their chronic pain, allowing them to resume their weekly trips to the farmer's market, a cherished activity.
- The senior couple finally found relief from the intense itching and discomfort of scabies, allowing them to reconnect with their beloved evening walks and enjoy the peace of their home again.
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 Pediatrics (Pediatrics)
Here are answers to some common questions about Internal Medicine care with Dr. Heather Samuelson:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Dr. Samuelson and her team are internists, a type of primary care doctor who specializes in the care of adults. They are experts in the many health issues that can occur as we age, such as managing chronic conditions and coordinating care with other specialists.
- Does Dr. Heather Samuelson have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Dr. Samuelson is an internist, meaning she has specialized training in adult medicine, including the unique health needs of older adults. She is experienced in managing conditions common in later life, such as heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis. Her practice is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for seniors.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Samuelson and our team 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. Heather Samuelson?
- To prepare for your appointment with Dr. Samuelson, 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 have written down.
- 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?
- 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.
- Does Dr. Heather Samuelson treat acute illnesses like colds or the flu?
- Dr. Samuelson and our practice treat a wide range of acute illnesses, including colds and the flu. Please call our office as soon as you notice symptoms to discuss the best course of action for you.
- What is the practice's approach to discussing memory concerns or cognitive changes?
- Dr. Samuelson and our team understand that memory concerns can be worrisome. We provide a supportive environment to discuss these worries, offer initial cognitive screenings, and can coordinate referrals to specialists if further evaluation is needed.
1148 E Gibson St Bldg C
Arcadia FL 34266
Phone: (863) 494-6222
Dr. Heather Samuelson, 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): 1710270426
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. Heather Samuelson 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.