Dr. Laura Duren, MD is an Internal Medicine physician practicing at Florida Health Care Plans in Port Orange, FL. She is a dedicated partner in senior health, registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). Her practice is focused on providing compassionate, comprehensive Internal Medicine care specifically tailored to the needs of older adults. 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. She serves primarily older adults (65 and older), but also includes younger adults with complex medical needs. Dr. Duren is currently welcoming new patients. Please call (386) 763-1000 to schedule an appointment. With over 30 years of dedicated experience in Internal Medicine care, she brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to her patients and their families. Dr. Duren earned her medical degree from Ohio State University in 1992 and is Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. She is committed to collaborative, evidence-based medicine, creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. She is part of Florida Health Care Plans, a local company with deep roots in the community committed to providing reliable health insurance plans coupled with high-quality, integrated care, and offering educational programs designed to promote optimal health and wellness. Dr. Laura Duren provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Laura Duren is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Laura Duren is a compassionate partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care tailored to your unique needs. She meticulously coordinates complex care, effectively manages chronic conditions, and prioritizes your overall well-being and independence, empowering you to thrive as you age. Her approach emphasizes understanding your personal goals, collaborating with your family, and crafting a personalized plan to maximize your comfort and independence.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Laura Duren can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Commercial Individual POS (POS)
- Florida Health Care Plan
- Ind/Fam/Emp Triple Option
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Laura Duren 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:
- Acute Upper Respiratory Infection: An acute upper respiratory infection (URI) is a common short-term illness affecting the nose, throat, and airways, often causing cold-like symptoms that can be managed with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications, helping you feel better and maintain your daily routines.
- All Headaches (incl. Migraine): Many older adults experience headaches, and effective management, such as medication or lifestyle changes, can dramatically lessen their impact on your quality of life.
- Fever: While a low-grade fever might resolve on its own, a high fever needs prompt medical attention to prevent complications and allow you to maintain your usual activities.
- Tobacco Use Disorder: It's common for older adults to develop a tobacco use disorder, but help is available to quit and reduce the risks to their lungs, heart, and overall health, enhancing their independence and enjoyment of life.
- Vascular Disease: Many conditions fall under the umbrella of vascular disease; these affect the flow of blood throughout your body and treatment plans often include diet changes, exercise, and medications to help manage symptoms and prevent complications, increasing your overall wellbeing.
- Large Bowel Obstruction: A large bowel obstruction is a blockage in your large intestine that prevents waste from passing through normally, often causing significant abdominal discomfort, which can be relieved with treatment such as surgery or medication.
- Sore Throat: While a sore throat might temporarily affect your ability to swallow or speak easily, simple remedies like gargling with salt water and drinking warm liquids can help ease symptoms and maintain your daily routines.
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. Laura Duren offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Abscess or Fluid Incision and Drainage: Incision and drainage is a procedure to remove pus or excess fluid, which can help diagnose underlying medical issues and guide your care plan.
- Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): To create a personalized care plan, your doctor may order an arterial blood gas test to accurately assess your respiratory and overall health.
- Electrocardiogram (EKG): An EKG is a vital tool in monitoring the effectiveness of your heart medication and adjusting your treatment plan as needed, optimizing your heart health and overall quality of life.
- Immunization Administration: Through timely immunizations, we can help prevent hospitalizations and complications related to infectious diseases, keeping seniors healthier and more active.
- Pap Smear: Regular Pap smears are a crucial part of preventive care, helping to identify precancerous changes before they become serious health problems.
- Pleurodesis: For seniors with persistent pleural effusions (fluid around the lungs), pleurodesis is a treatment option that aims to permanently seal the space, reducing the need for repeated drainage.
- Other Psychiatric Medication Therapy (Inpatient Only): For seniors experiencing severe mental health challenges requiring close supervision, inpatient psychiatric medication therapy provides intensive support to stabilize their condition and find the right medication.
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. Laura Duren 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:
- Feeling significantly better after a consultation, a senior couple was able to resume their usual evening walks in the park, a cherished activity that had been disrupted by a recent upper respiratory infection.
- The senior was able to enjoy evenings with family again, free from the debilitating headaches that had previously kept her isolated. Her improved sleep and reduced pain allowed her to participate fully in her grandchildren's activities.
- A senior citizen, struggling with a persistent fever, found relief and a renewed sense of well-being after consulting a medical professional. They were able to return to their beloved hobby of playing cards with friends, a cherished social activity.
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. Laura Duren:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Dr. Duren and her practice are focused on the unique health needs of adults, especially those of older adults. Internists are primary care doctors who specialize in adult medicine, making them experts in the complex health issues that arise with age. They can manage chronic conditions and coordinate care with other specialists.
- Does Dr. Laura Duren have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Dr. Duren's practice specializes in adult medicine, and she has extensive experience treating the unique health needs of older adults. She is well-versed in conditions common in later life, providing comprehensive care for seniors.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Duren and our practice 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 ensuring clear communication and support.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Laura Duren?
- To prepare for your appointment with Dr. Duren, 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 refill is through our patient portal or by contacting 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.
- How does Dr. Laura Duren help patients manage their blood pressure?
- Dr. Duren helps manage blood pressure by prescribing medication when needed, but also through regular monitoring, lifestyle counseling (diet and exercise), and a personalized plan to help patients reach and maintain a healthy blood pressure.
- Does Dr. Laura Duren treat acute illnesses like colds or the flu?
- Dr. Duren and our team treat acute illnesses such as colds and the flu. Please call the office at the first sign of symptoms to discuss the best course of action for your care.
Florida Health Care Plans
740 Dunlawton Ave
Port Orange FL 32127
Phone: (386) 763-1000
Dr. Laura Duren, 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): 1689918831
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. Laura Duren 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.