Leona Hamrick, PA-C is an Internal Medicine physician practicing at STARUS Medical Group in Dunedin, 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). Dr. Leona PA-C is committed to providing compassionate, comprehensive Internal Medicine care tailored specifically to the needs of older adults. Her practice prioritizes a deep understanding of the unique health challenges and opportunities that accompany aging, ensuring that your healthcare journey is as smooth and supportive as possible.
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. Dr. Leona PA-C primarily serves older adults (65 and older), but also includes younger adults with complex medical needs. While she is not currently accepting new patients, you can call (727) 789-2922 to inquire about waitlists or future openings. Dr. Leona PA-C, an internal medicine specialist in Dunedin, FL, is committed to her patients' well-being and was rigorously trained at recognized institutions. She always treats the whole person and sees each patient as an individual, listening to their health care desires. By utilizing a team approach, Dr. Leona PA-C helps patients maintain and reach their health goals. Dr. Leona PA-C provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Leona PA-C is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Leona PA-C is a compassionate and dedicated partner in your senior health journey. She provides comprehensive internal medicine care, focusing on managing chronic conditions and coordinating complex needs to maintain your overall well-being and independence. Her approach prioritizes understanding your personal goals and preferences, working collaboratively with you and your family to create a personalized plan that maximizes your comfort and quality of life as you age.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Leona PA-C 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. Leona PA-C 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:
- Acne: Acne, while more common in younger people, can sometimes appear in older adults, and is characterized by pimples or spots on the skin that can be treated with over-the-counter or prescription medications to improve skin comfort and self-confidence.
- Acute Gout: Characterized by sudden, excruciating joint pain and inflammation, usually in the big toe or other joints, gout is treatable with medication to reduce symptoms. With proper management, you can live a fuller, more active life, minimizing the impact on your daily activities.
- Diabetes: If you have diabetes, it's important to understand your condition and work with your healthcare team to develop a personalized plan that helps you control your blood sugar and prevent long-term health problems, enabling you to continue doing the things you love.
- Breathing Disorders: Breathing disorders make it hard to get enough air, but with the right care, such as medication or breathing exercises, you can breathe easier and enjoy life more.
- Cholesterol Diseases: Managing cholesterol levels is crucial for preventing heart problems and strokes, so working with your doctor to find the right treatment plan can significantly improve your overall health and well-being.
- Heart Disease: If you have heart disease, understanding your specific condition and working collaboratively with your healthcare team through medication, therapy, and healthy lifestyle choices ensures you can continue to live a fulfilling life.
- Respiratory Diseases: Difficulty breathing can be a sign of a respiratory disease, but regular check-ups and medication can help keep symptoms under control and ensure you can continue participating in the things you love.
- Arrhythmias: An arrhythmia is a problem with the rhythm of your heartbeat that may need treatment, such as medication or other procedures to help maintain a healthy heart rhythm, improving your energy levels and quality of life.
- Viral Infection: Managing a viral infection often involves focusing on relieving symptoms such as aches and pains through rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications, helping you feel better and maintain your daily routine.
- Shingles: The painful rash of shingles can be relieved through medication and sometimes other therapies, allowing you to get back to enjoying your life without constant discomfort and worry.
- Hypertension: Having hypertension means your heart has to work harder to pump blood, increasing the risk of strokes and heart attacks; however, with proper treatment and monitoring, you can significantly reduce these risks and maintain a good quality of life.
- Depressive Disorders: Feeling persistently down or hopeless is a sign that depression might be affecting you, but effective treatments like medication, talk therapy, or a combination of both are available to help manage symptoms and improve your daily functioning.
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. Leona PA-C offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Breast Exam: By incorporating breast exams into your health routine, you empower yourself to take an active role in managing your well-being and identifying potential problems.
- 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.
- Hospice Care Services: Hospice services offer a team-based approach that coordinates medical care, pain management, emotional counseling, and spiritual support for seniors and their loved ones during a challenging time.
- Immunization: Immunization is a crucial preventive measure that protects seniors from serious illnesses like influenza and pneumonia, helping them stay healthier and more active.
- Injection Therapy: Injection therapy might be part of your treatment plan to address joint pain and stiffness, helping you maintain mobility and independence.
- Pap Smear: Regular Pap smears are a crucial part of preventive care, helping to identify precancerous changes before they become serious health problems.
- Spirometry: Spirometry is a key tool in creating a personalized care plan for managing your breathing difficulties, helping you breathe easier and live more comfortably.
- Vaccination: Vaccinations help safeguard seniors against preventable diseases, empowering them to live healthier, more active lives and reducing their healthcare burden.
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. Leona PA-C 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:
- A senior woman, previously self-conscious about acne breakouts, found relief with prescribed medications, allowing her to confidently attend social gatherings again.
- Mrs. Rodriguez's excruciating gout pain subsided significantly with the prescribed medication, allowing her to resume her beloved weekly bridge games with friends.
- With careful management of their diabetes, a senior couple regained the energy to enjoy their weekly trips to the local farmers' market, a cherished pastime.
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)
- Distinguished Fellow with American Academy of Physician Assistants, 2010
- Health Science Scholarship, 1996
- Big Sister of the Year Pinellas County - Big Brothers Big Sisters, 11/01/2011
- True Life: I'm Hooked on Oxycontin, 2001
- Animal Assisted Therapy: A Review Article, August '11
- Stress Management and the Physician Assistant, 2011
- Avoiding Stress, 01/12/2012
Here are answers to some common questions about Internal Medicine care with Dr. Leona PA-C:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Internists, like Dr. Leona PA-C, are primary care doctors who specialize in adult health. They are experts in the many health concerns that can arise with aging, including managing chronic diseases and coordinating care with other specialists.
- Does Dr. Leona PA-C have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Dr. Leona PA-C and our practice are experienced in treating the unique health needs of older adults. We have extensive knowledge of the conditions common in later life and are dedicated to providing the best possible care for our patients.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Leona PA-C 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 involvement is invaluable for clear communication and support.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Leona PA-C?
- 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. If you have any questions, please contact 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 kind of breathing or lung conditions do you manage?
- Dr. Leona PA-C and our team manage common respiratory conditions like asthma and COPD. We focus on helping patients effectively manage their symptoms, use inhalers correctly, and develop personalized action plans to prevent flare-ups.
- How do you help patients who are at risk of falling?
- Fall prevention is a key focus for our senior patients. We review medications for potential side effects, assess mobility, and recommend physical therapy or home safety evaluations as needed.
STARUS Medical Group
2323 Curlew Rd Ste 6E
Dunedin FL 34698
Phone: (727) 789-2922
Leona Hamrick, PA-C 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): 1932307592
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. Leona PA-C 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.