Dr. Laura Machado, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at her clinic in Tallahassee, FL. As a trusted partner in senior health, she is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the 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. She primarily serves older adults (65 and older), but also includes younger adults with complex medical needs. Please call (850) 878-0191 to confirm if Dr. Machado is currently accepting new patients.
Dr. Laura Machado, MD is an internist in Tallahassee, FL with over 25 years of experience in the medical field. She earned her medical degree from the University of Florida College of Medicine in 1997 and completed an internship at Shands Hospital at the University of Florida in 1998. Following medical school, she completed her residency in Internal Medicine at Shands Hospital at the University of Florida in 2000, specializing in the comprehensive medical care of primarily older adults (65 and older), but also including younger adults with complex medical needs. She is Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Dr. Machado is affiliated with HCA Florida Capital Hospital and Grady General Hospital, and brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to her patients and their families.
Dr. Machado 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 provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Laura Machado is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Laura Machado is a dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care focused on your overall well-being and independence. She expertly coordinates complex care, manages chronic conditions, and prioritizes understanding your individual needs and goals, working collaboratively with you and your family to create a personalized plan for optimal health and comfort as you age.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Laura Machado can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Laura Machado 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:
- Hypertension: Hypertension, often called high blood pressure, is a condition where your blood pressure is consistently too high, but regular checkups and the right medications can help keep it under control and prevent serious health problems.
- Nail Infection: If you notice a painful or discolored nail, it could be an infection. Seeking prompt medical attention can lead to effective treatment and prevent the infection from spreading or becoming more serious, thus preserving your independence.
- Sciatica: Sciatica, characterized by pain that runs from your lower back down your leg, can impact your daily life, but understanding the condition and working with your doctor on a treatment plan – which may include medication and physical therapy – can help you manage your symptoms and regain comfort.
- Nausea: Experiencing nausea can be distressing, but thankfully there are many ways to manage it and improve your comfort.
- Acute Bronchitis: Acute bronchitis is a short-term inflammation of the bronchial tubes, resulting in a cough; your doctor can help manage your symptoms to reduce discomfort and prevent complications, keeping you healthy and active.
- Sleep-Related Leg Cramp: Treatment for leg cramps can include over-the-counter pain relievers, muscle relaxants, or addressing vitamin deficiencies to reduce nighttime pain and improve your quality of life.
- Cachexia: Cachexia is a complex condition leading to muscle loss and weakness, but targeted treatments, including nutritional therapies and medications, can help manage symptoms and improve your overall well-being, supporting a more active lifestyle.
- Animal Allergies: Dealing with animal allergies can be challenging, but with the right strategies such as allergy medication, regular cleaning, and possibly avoiding direct contact with pets, you can maintain a good quality of life and enjoy the company of furry friends from a safe distance.
- Emphysema: With emphysema, the delicate air sacs in your lungs become damaged and enlarged, causing breathlessness, but treatments like medication and pulmonary rehabilitation can help improve your breathing and overall well-being.
- Abdominal Pain: Abdominal pain can impact your quality of life, but appropriate diagnosis and treatment, often involving medication or lifestyle adjustments, can significantly reduce discomfort and improve well-being.
- Malaise and Fatigue: While some fatigue is normal, persistent tiredness and a general feeling of being unwell can dramatically affect your quality of life. Your doctor can help identify the cause and develop a treatment plan that gets you back on your feet.
- Anemia: If you have anemia, it means your body lacks sufficient red blood cells, resulting in tiredness and reduced stamina; however, with proper diagnosis and treatment, you can regain your vitality and maintain your independence.
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 Machado offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- 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.
- Fecal Occult Blood Test for Colorectal Cancer: A fecal occult blood test is a simple screening tool that can help detect hidden blood in your stool, an early sign that might indicate colorectal cancer.
- Immunization Administration: Immunization administration is a key component of a comprehensive care plan, ensuring seniors receive protection against potentially debilitating infections.
- Pap Smear: This quick test can help manage your risk of cervical cancer by detecting abnormal cells early, enabling prompt intervention.
- Thyroidectomy: If your doctor recommends a thyroidectomy, it's a crucial step in treating or managing a thyroid condition that is contributing to your health issues and will help improve your quality of life.
- Intestinal and Multivisceral Transplant: Intestinal and multivisceral transplants are complex surgical procedures that can offer a lifeline for seniors with severe organ failure, offering a chance to improve quality of life and longevity when other treatments have failed.
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 Machado 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 consistent blood pressure management, a senior couple felt more secure in their home, venturing out for walks in the park with renewed energy and confidence.
- A senior felt much less pain and discomfort in their nail after seeking prompt medical attention for the infection. They were able to resume their cherished hobby of playing the piano without worry.
- A senior, experiencing debilitating sciatica pain, found significant relief through a tailored treatment plan that included medication and physical therapy. This enabled her to resume her beloved weekly bridge club meetings, improving her overall well-being and social life.
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
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- 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 Machado:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Internists, like Dr. Machado, are primary care doctors who specialize in treating adults. They are experts in the many health concerns that can arise as we age, including managing chronic conditions and coordinating care with other specialists.
- Does Dr. Laura Machado have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Dr. Machado is an internist, specializing in adult medicine, and has extensive experience treating the unique health needs of older adults. She is knowledgeable about the conditions commonly affecting seniors and is well-equipped to provide comprehensive care.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Machado and our practice believe in a team approach to care, and we welcome the involvement of family members and caregivers, with the patient's permission. Their participation is valuable for ensuring clear communication and support during appointments and care planning.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Laura Machado?
- To prepare for your appointment with Dr. Machado, 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?
- To request a prescription refill, please use our patient portal or contact your pharmacy directly. Please allow 2-3 business days for processing. If you have any questions, please call our office.
- 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 your approach to medication management, especially for patients taking many prescriptions (polypharmacy)?
- Dr. Machado's practice prioritizes medication management, especially 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 your well-being.
- What kind of diagnostic tests can be done in your office?
- In Dr. Machado's office, we can perform common diagnostic tests like electrocardiograms (EKGs), blood draws, and urine tests. These help us quickly assess your health and manage any conditions without needing a referral to another specialist right away.
1607 Saint James Ct
Tallahassee FL 32308
Phone: (850) 878-0191
Dr. Laura Machado, 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): 1518070127
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 Machado 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.