Dr. Hugh Rutledge, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at AdventHealth Medical Group Primary Care at Palm Harbor in Palm Harbor, FL. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). 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 is a valued member of the Florida Hospital North Pinellas Physician Group, having completed rigorous medical training at recognized institutions and subsequently undertaking a residency in Internal Medicine at the University of South Florida. He is committed to providing exceptional care to primarily older adults (65 and older), but also including younger adults with complex medical needs.
Dr. Rutledge's practice is rooted in a philosophy of patient-centered care, emphasizing open communication and collaboration. He understands the unique health challenges and needs of older adults, striving to empower patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare. He is committed to helping you maintain your independence and quality of life. Dr. Rutledge is currently welcoming new patients. Please call (727) 786-1673 to schedule an appointment. While his consultations are primarily in English, he is dedicated to providing the best possible care in a respectful and supportive environment.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Hugh Rutledge is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Hugh Rutledge is a compassionate and dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care. He meticulously coordinates complex care, effectively manages chronic conditions, and prioritizes your overall well-being and independence, ensuring you can thrive as you age. He understands that each patient's experience is unique, and he works closely with you and your loved ones to create a personalized plan that maximizes your comfort and independence.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Hugh Rutledge can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Aetna
Coventry Health Care
Curative
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Anthem
- Blue Card
- Blue Card PPO (PPO)
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Cigna
- Curative EPO (EPO)
- Curative PPO (PPO)
- Curative PPO Plus (PPO Plus)
- First Health
- First Health (Coventry Health Care)
- First Health (Coventry Health Care) PPO (PPO)
- HealthyBlue 2.0
- HealthyBlue Advantage
- Humana
- LocalPlus
- MultiPlan
- MultiPlan PPO (PPO)
- National (BlueCard) PPO (PPO)
- Open Access Plus
- Select
- Select HMO (HMO)
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Hugh Rutledge 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:
- Blood in Urine (Hematuria): Blood in the urine, or hematuria, may be a sign of a minor issue or something more serious, but prompt medical attention can lead to effective diagnosis and management to improve your health.
- Acute Kidney Infection: Experiencing pain in your lower back, side, or abdomen, along with fever and chills, could be a sign of a kidney infection; timely medical help and antibiotic treatment is crucial to restore your health and prevent further complications.
- Actinic Keratosis: Actinic keratosis are skin growths resulting from years of sun exposure, and while usually not cancerous, they can sometimes develop into skin cancer, so early treatment is important for peace of mind.
- Asthma: Asthma is a chronic condition affecting your breathing, but with a well-managed treatment plan, including medication and lifestyle adjustments, you can prevent flare-ups and maintain your independence.
- Tinnitus: Tinnitus, that annoying ringing or whistling sound in your ears, can be frustrating, but many strategies exist to help you cope, from sound therapy to relaxation techniques, ultimately supporting better sleep and an enhanced sense of peace.
- Chronic Pain: For seniors, chronic pain can be a major challenge, but with proper medical attention and a personalized treatment plan, including pain management techniques and lifestyle adjustments, you can regain a sense of well-being and continue doing the activities you enjoy.
- Pneumonia: If you have pneumonia, it means your lungs are inflamed due to an infection, potentially impacting your breathing; however, medical care, including medication and supportive therapies, helps manage symptoms and get you back on your feet.
- Familial Hypercholesterolemia: Having high cholesterol due to familial hypercholesterolemia doesn't mean a life of limitations; it simply means working closely with your doctor to manage it with medication and diet, protecting your heart and ensuring a longer, healthier life.
- Hypertension: High blood pressure (hypertension) is a silent condition, often without symptoms, but it's crucial to manage it as it can damage your organs. With your doctor's help, through medication and healthy habits, you can protect your health and well-being.
- Bedsores: Bedsores, also called pressure ulcers, are injuries to the skin and underlying tissue caused by prolonged pressure, often affecting people who have difficulty moving.
- Abdominal Pain: Understanding the source of your abdominal pain is key; your doctor can help identify the cause and recommend management strategies, helping you stay comfortable and active.
- Intestinal Diverticulitis: Diverticulitis, an inflammation of small pouches in your digestive tract, can be treated effectively with medication and dietary adjustments to help you stay comfortable and maintain your daily activities.
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. Hugh Rutledge 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): An electrocardiogram (EKG) is a simple test that uses small sensors placed on your chest to check your heart's rhythm and electrical activity, helping your doctor assess your heart health and manage any potential problems.
- 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.
- Immunization Administration: Regular immunization updates ensure that seniors' immune systems are adequately prepared to fight infections, significantly contributing to their quality of life.
- Medical Surveillance of Hazardous Substance: By monitoring exposure to hazardous substances, your doctor can prevent or mitigate the development of serious health issues and help you live a healthier life.
- Geriatric Foot Care: Geriatric foot care helps identify and manage foot problems common in older adults, preventing complications and improving overall mobility.
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. Hugh Rutledge 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 receiving guidance on managing blood in her urine, a senior woman felt more secure about her health and was able to resume her beloved weekly bridge club gatherings without worry.
- Feeling the sharp pain in her side subside, a senior woman was able to return to her beloved knitting, a cherished hobby that had been put on hold due to the kidney infection. With the infection under control, she regained her energy and quality of life.
- Concerned about skin growths, a senior felt much more secure about their skin health after a personalized treatment plan. The patient was relieved to resume their regular outdoor activities without the worry of further skin changes.
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. Hugh Rutledge:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Dr. Rutledge's practice specializes in internal medicine, which means he's a primary care doctor who focuses exclusively on adult health. He's particularly skilled in the unique health concerns that come with aging, and experienced in managing chronic conditions and coordinating care among specialists, ensuring comprehensive and effective treatment.
- Does Dr. Hugh Rutledge have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Dr. Rutledge's practice specializes in adult medicine, including the specific needs of older adults. He has extensive experience managing the health concerns common in later life, providing comprehensive care for seniors.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Rutledge and our practice strongly 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 throughout the care process.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Hugh Rutledge?
- To prepare for your first appointment with Dr. Rutledge, 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 prescription refill is through our patient portal or by calling 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.
- What is the practice's approach to discussing memory concerns or cognitive changes?
- Dr. Rutledge 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.
- How do you manage chronic pain, such as arthritis?
- Dr. Rutledge's approach to chronic pain, like arthritis, is multifaceted. It includes appropriate medication, referrals to physical therapy, and discussions about lifestyle adjustments to help manage discomfort and maintain activity levels.
AdventHealth Medical Group Primary Care at Palm Harbor
34637 US Highway 19 N
Palm Harbor FL 34684
Phone: (727) 786-1673
Dr. Hugh Rutledge, 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): 1437254885
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. Hugh Rutledge 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.