Dr. Laura Veras Mena, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at her clinic in Estero, FL. Registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), she is committed to being a trusted partner in your health journey. 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.
Dr. Laura Veras Mena, MD is an internist in Estero, FL, affiliated with Cape Coral Hospital and Lee Memorial Hospital. She is accepting telehealth appointments. She is Board Certified in Allergy & Immunology by the American Board of Allergy & Immunology, and Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Dr. Mena is committed to collaborative, evidence-based medicine, creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. If you are interested in scheduling an appointment, please call (239) 495-4390 to confirm if she is currently accepting new patients. Dr. Laura Mena provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Laura Mena is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Laura Mena is a dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care that prioritizes your well-being and independence. She meticulously coordinates complex care, expertly manages chronic conditions, and focuses on fostering a strong doctor-patient relationship built on trust and understanding. Dr. Mena's compassionate approach centers on your individual needs, ensuring a personalized plan that maximizes comfort and independence throughout your aging process.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Laura Mena can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Aetna
Also Accepts These Carriers
- AvMed
- 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)
- BlueOptions HMO (HMO)
- Choice Care Network PPO (PPO)
- Choice Care PPO (PPO)
- Choice Large Group POS (POS)
- Choice POS (POS)
- Choice Plus POS (POS)
- Choice Plus POS II (POS II)
- Cigna
- Cigna PPO (PPO)
- Curative
- Curative EPO (EPO)
- Curative PPO (PPO)
- Curative PPO Plus (PPO Plus)
- Elect Choice (Open Access) EPO (EPO)
- Empower - Small Employer Groups
- Empower POS (POS)
- First Health
- First Health (Coventry Health Care) PPO (PPO)
- Florida Blue
- HMO Premier HMO (HMO)
- Humana
- Inc. d/b/a Florida Blue
- Managed Choice (Open Access) POS (POS)
- Medica Choice
- National POS (POS)
- 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. Laura Mena 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:
- Hives: Hives, or urticaria, are itchy, raised welts on the skin that can appear suddenly and disappear just as quickly, often caused by an allergic reaction or other irritation, and can be managed with over-the-counter medications to relieve itching and discomfort, allowing you to enjoy a better quality of life.
- Sleep Apnea: If you or a loved one snores loudly and often feel tired despite sleeping enough, it might be sleep apnea, a condition easily diagnosed and treated to restore restful nights and improve energy levels.
- Dyslipidemia: Unhealthy levels of cholesterol and fats in the blood, known as dyslipidemia, can be managed effectively with your doctor's guidance, including medication and lifestyle changes, so you can stay active and maintain your overall well-being.
- Eczema and Contact Dermatitis: For seniors, eczema and contact dermatitis can be especially uncomfortable, but effective treatment plans, including moisturizing and avoiding irritants, can significantly improve quality of life and reduce the need for assistance.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): GERD is when stomach acid irritates the esophagus, leading to burning sensations and other issues, but with your doctor's help, through medication or dietary adjustments, you can often find relief and improve your quality of life.
- Gastritis: Don't let stomach discomfort sideline you. Gastritis, an inflammation of the stomach lining, is often treatable. With the right medication and a bit of dietary care, you can manage the condition and enjoy a better quality of 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.
- All Headaches (incl. Migraine): Headaches and migraines can be disruptive, but with proper diagnosis and personalized care, you can significantly decrease their frequency and intensity, allowing you to enjoy more fulfilling days.
- Toxic Effect of Venom: Venomous bites or stings can lead to painful symptoms such as swelling, nausea, and even breathing difficulties; however, appropriate treatment, including pain management and supportive care, can help control these symptoms and aid recovery.
- Dermatitis Due to Substances Taken Internally: A skin rash may be a reaction to something you've ingested, a condition known as dermatitis from internal substances; identifying and addressing the source of this reaction with your doctor can significantly improve your skin's health and overall well-being.
- Bronchitis: If you have bronchitis, your airways are inflamed, making it difficult to breathe and often causing a persistent cough; treatment aims to reduce discomfort and speed up recovery so you can enjoy a better quality of life.
- Migraine: Migraines can cause intense head pain and other symptoms like vomiting and dizziness, impacting daily activities, but treatment options, such as medication and relaxation techniques, help many seniors live more comfortably and independently.
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 Mena offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Allergy Shots: As part of your comprehensive care plan, allergy shots can help identify and manage allergic reactions to common substances like pollen or pet dander, reducing symptoms like sneezing and itching.
- Desensitization: In managing chronic pain, a desensitization approach helps reduce the intensity of discomfort, improving a senior's overall well-being and daily function.
- Fecal Occult Blood Test for Colorectal Cancer: As part of your regular checkups, a fecal occult blood test helps your doctor assess your risk of colorectal cancer and develop a personalized prevention plan.
- Patch Testing: This non-invasive test involves placing small amounts of potential allergens on your skin to see which ones cause a reaction, aiding in the accurate diagnosis and management of your skin condition.
- Blood Allergy Testing: As part of your comprehensive care plan, a blood allergy test helps identify the cause of your allergic reactions so that your doctor can advise you on how to manage your allergies effectively.
- Allergy Skin Testing: Allergy skin testing helps identify specific allergens triggering your reactions, allowing your doctor to create a personalized plan to manage your symptoms.
- Radioallergosorbent Test: To better understand your allergy symptoms, your doctor may order a RAST, a blood test that detects antibodies related to specific allergens, assisting in managing your condition.
- Aeroallergen Hyposensitization Therapy: This treatment helps identify and address specific allergens contributing to your respiratory issues, thus preventing future exacerbations and improving overall well-being.
- Allergy Treatment: Through allergy testing and treatment, we can pinpoint triggers and develop a plan to minimize exposure and prevent future reactions.
- Allergy Shots for Insect Stings: If you've had a severe reaction to an insect sting, allergy shots can be included in your care plan to prevent future serious or life-threatening reactions and ensure your well-being.
- 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.
- Skin Testing and Screening: Skin testing helps your doctor diagnose allergies or skin conditions, ensuring you receive the right treatment.
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 Mena 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 help of a personalized treatment plan, a senior woman found relief from bothersome hives, allowing her to return to her beloved knitting hobby without interruption. Her family was overjoyed by her improved comfort and quality of life.
- After consistent sleep apnea treatment, a senior couple reported feeling more rested and energetic, allowing them to enjoy evening walks together again.
- With healthier cholesterol levels, a senior felt more energetic and confident, enabling her to resume her beloved daily walks with her grandchildren.
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 Allergy & Immunology (Allergy & Immunology)
- American Board of Internal Medicine (Internal Medicine)
Here are answers to some common questions about Internal Medicine care with Dr. Laura Mena:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Dr. Mena is an internist, a primary care doctor specializing in adult health. She is uniquely trained to manage the complex health needs of older adults, including chronic conditions and coordinating care with other specialists.
- Does Dr. Laura Mena have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Dr. Mena is an internist, meaning she has specialized training in adult medicine, and extensive experience caring for the health needs of older adults. She is knowledgeable about the conditions that are common in later life.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Mena and our practice believe in a team approach to care. We welcome the involvement of family members and caregivers, with the patient's permission, as their participation is invaluable in ensuring clear communication and support throughout the care process.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Laura Mena?
- To prepare for your appointment with Dr. Mena, 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 address.
- How do I request a prescription refill?
- The easiest way to request a prescription refill is through our patient portal or by contacting 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?
- 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 do you manage chronic pain, such as arthritis?
- Dr. Mena'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.
- What is the practice's approach to discussing memory concerns or cognitive changes?
- Dr. Mena and our team understand that discussing memory concerns can be sensitive. We provide a safe and supportive environment to address these worries, offer initial cognitive screenings, and can coordinate referrals to neurologists or other specialists if needed.
3501 Health Center Blvd Ste 2120
Estero FL 34135
Phone: (239) 495-4390
Dr. Laura Veras Mena, 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): 1659502458
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 Mena 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.