Dr. Joyce Paulson, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at UCF Health in Orlando, FL. She is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). As your internist, she 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. She primarily serves older adults (65 and older), but also includes younger adults with complex medical needs. Dr. Paulson is currently welcoming new patients; please call (407) 266-3627 to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Paulson brings over 10 years of dedicated experience in Internal Medicine care to her patients and their families, having earned her medical degree from Northwestern University Feinberg School Of Medicine in 2010. She is board certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine and holds the diplomate credential from the American Board of Obesity Medicine (ABOM), making her an expert in obesity care and management. Her approach to care is deeply collaborative and evidence-based, creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. She completed her residency training at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia, and participated in meaningful research and quality improvement projects. Dr. Paulson provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Joyce Paulson is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Joyce Paulson partners with seniors to navigate the complexities of aging health, providing comprehensive internal medicine care that prioritizes their well-being and independence. She meticulously coordinates complex care, manages chronic conditions, and focuses on each patient's unique needs, creating a personalized plan to ensure optimal health and comfort. Her compassionate approach ensures seniors feel supported and empowered throughout their health journey.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Joyce Paulson can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Aetna
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida
Cigna
USA Managed Care Organization
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield
- Buckeye Community Health Plan
- CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Health Net
- HealthyBlue 2.0
- Medicaid
- Medicare
- Midwest Health Plan
- Tricare
- United Healthcare
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Joyce Paulson 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:
- Muscle Spasm: Muscle spasms, those sudden, painful muscle contractions, are common as we age, but simple strategies like staying hydrated, gentle exercise, and warm baths can help manage them and maintain your independence.
- Acute Bronchitis: If you've developed a cough and chest congestion, it might be acute bronchitis, a temporary lung infection that often resolves on its own with supportive care, allowing you to maintain your independence.
- Dermatitis Due to Substances Taken Internally: Sometimes, what you take internally can cause a skin rash or irritation, which is called dermatitis from internal substances; your doctor can help identify the cause and suggest ways to manage it, leading to clearer skin and improved comfort.
- 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.
- Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): UTIs are infections in your urinary system, often causing pain and urgency when you urinate. Fortunately, UTIs are usually treatable with antibiotics, helping you to feel more comfortable and prevent serious complications.
- COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease): COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is a lung condition that makes it hard to breathe, but with the right treatment and care, you can manage your symptoms and stay active.
- Insomnia: For older adults, restful sleep is essential for maintaining independence and a high quality of life. If insomnia is affecting your ability to function, know that there are many safe and effective treatments available to help you get the sleep you need.
- Cough: Dealing with a cough can be frustrating, but understanding its cause – whether it's a cold, allergies, or a more serious condition – is the first step towards effective management and improved comfort.
- Hypoglycemia: Hypoglycemia is a condition characterized by abnormally low blood sugar levels; maintaining consistent blood sugar levels through regular monitoring and medication adherence can improve your energy and overall well-being.
- Proteinuria: Proteinuria means there's too much protein in your urine, which can sometimes indicate a problem with your kidneys.
- Ringworm: Ringworm is a common fungal infection of the skin that causes itchy, circular rashes, and it's easily treated with antifungal creams or pills prescribed by your doctor to help you feel more comfortable and prevent its spread.
- Hypercalcemia: Hypercalcemia, a condition of elevated blood calcium, might cause you to feel unwell, but effective treatment strategies exist to help regulate calcium levels, alleviate symptoms, and enhance your overall quality of life.
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. Joyce Paulson offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): This test provides valuable information about your body's oxygenation and helps your doctor make informed decisions about your medication and treatment.
- 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.
- 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.
- Strep Test: This simple test helps manage your sore throat by identifying whether antibiotics are necessary, ensuring you receive the most effective care.
- Tympanometry: As part of your overall hearing evaluation, tympanometry helps identify issues like fluid buildup in the middle ear that may be affecting your hearing and balance.
- Cell Based Therapy: This innovative treatment approach focuses on using your own cells or donor cells to treat various conditions, offering a potential avenue for improved health outcomes.
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. Joyce Paulson 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 guidance of a knowledgeable medical professional, a senior was able to reduce the frequency and intensity of muscle spasms, allowing her to enjoy her daily walks with renewed confidence.
- With the guidance of a supportive internal medicine specialist, a senior citizen was able to manage their acute bronchitis, enabling them to resume their beloved daily walks in the park.
- A senior's persistent skin rash, caused by an internal substance, finally subsided with the guidance of a medical professional. The patient felt significantly more comfortable and confident in their daily activities.
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)
Here are answers to some common questions about Internal Medicine care with Dr. Joyce Paulson:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Dr. Paulson's practice specializes in internal medicine, which means she is a primary care doctor who focuses exclusively on adult health. She is highly trained in the many health concerns that can arise as people age and is skilled at managing chronic conditions and coordinating comprehensive care.
- Does Dr. Joyce Paulson have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Dr. Paulson is an internist, meaning she has specialized training in adult medicine, including the specific health needs of older adults. She has extensive experience managing conditions common in later life, providing comprehensive care for seniors.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Paulson 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 in ensuring clear communication and comprehensive support.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Joyce Paulson?
- To prepare for your first appointment with Dr. Paulson, 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?
- 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.
- How does Dr. Joyce Paulson approach managing type 2 diabetes?
- Dr. Paulson takes a comprehensive approach to managing type 2 diabetes, focusing on medication management, regular blood sugar monitoring, and personalized lifestyle counseling. This includes guidance on diet, exercise, and crucial foot care to help patients effectively control their blood sugar and overall health.
- What is your approach to medication management, especially for patients taking many prescriptions (polypharmacy)?
- Dr. Paulson's practice prioritizes careful medication management for patients on multiple medications. Regular reviews ensure we check for interactions, eliminate unnecessary prescriptions, and confirm the overall plan is safe and effective for each patient.
UCF Health
9975 Tavistock Lakes Blvd Ste 360
Orlando FL 32827
Phone: (407) 266-3627
Dr. Joyce Paulson, 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): 1780843508
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. Joyce Paulson 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.