Dr. Lewis Semel, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at his clinic in Boca Raton, FL. He 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. He primarily serves older adults (65 and older), but also includes younger adults with complex medical needs. Dr. Semel is currently welcoming new patients, and you can schedule an appointment by calling (561) 395-7494.
Dr. Lewis H Semel earned his M.D. from Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta, Georgia in 1992. He completed his Internal Medicine internship and residency training at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago, Illinois, graduating in 1993. With over 30 years of dedicated experience in Internal Medicine care, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. He is an assistant professor of medicine at the Florida Atlantic University Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine and is Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. We provide primary health care with the highest standards of quality and service through professional, friendly and personalized attention. Dr. Semel helps patients achieve health using a whole food plant based diet, exercise, lifestyle counseling and medications when necessary. From the time you make your appointment until you walk out the door, our staff will treat you like family to ensure you have had the best possible experience in our practice. Dr. Lewis Semel offers consultations in Spanish.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Lewis Semel is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Semel acts as a compassionate and dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care. He meticulously coordinates complex care, effectively manages chronic conditions, and prioritizes your overall well-being and independence, ensuring you thrive as you age. His approach emphasizes understanding your personal goals and creating a tailored plan for optimal comfort and continued independence.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Lewis Semel can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Aetna
AvMed
Cigna
Coventry Health Care of Florida
Elderplan
Health Net
Humana
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield
- Buckeye Community Health Plan
- Curative
- Curative EPO (EPO)
- Curative PPO (PPO)
- Curative PPO Plus (PPO Plus)
- First Health
- First Health (Coventry Health Care)
- Inc.
- Medicare
- MultiPlan
- MultiPlan PPO (PPO)
- Tricare
- United Healthcare
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Lewis Semel 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:
- Hyperkalemia: If you have hyperkalemia, your doctor can work with you to adjust your medications and diet to bring your potassium levels to a safe range, ensuring your heart remains strong.
- Influenza (Flu): The flu is a contagious respiratory illness that can be serious for older adults, but getting vaccinated and seeking early treatment can significantly reduce its severity and prevent complications.
- Fever: Managing a fever involves comfort measures like plenty of fluids and rest, along with medications prescribed by your doctor, to help you feel better and remain comfortable at home.
- Pneumonia: Pneumonia is an infection in your lungs that can make it hard to breathe, but antibiotics and rest can help you recover and enjoy your daily activities.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): GERD, or acid reflux, is a common condition where stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus, causing heartburn and discomfort, but with the right approach and medication, you can effectively manage your symptoms and maintain a comfortable life.
- Sciatica: If you're experiencing sciatica, the sharp pain in your leg and buttock, know that it's often treatable. Your doctor can develop a plan involving exercise, medication, or other therapies to improve your comfort and quality of life.
- Arthritis: Dealing with arthritis means experiencing pain and swelling in your joints, but with the right plan from your doctor – including medication and therapies – you can actively manage your symptoms and enjoy your daily activities.
- Viral Infection: Viral infections, like colds or the flu, are common illnesses caused by viruses that can cause symptoms like fever, cough, and fatigue, but they usually clear up on their own with rest and supportive care.
- Chest Pain: While chest pain can have various causes, understanding the source allows for better management and reduces your discomfort, helping you enjoy your daily activities.
- Secondary Diabetes Mellitus: Secondary diabetes develops when another medical condition, like pancreatic disease or some medications, interferes with your body's ability to regulate blood sugar, requiring careful management to prevent complications and maintain your well-being.
- Limb Swelling Caused by Fluid Overload: Limb swelling from fluid retention can be managed effectively with medical attention, often through medications and dietary adjustments, which can significantly ease discomfort and help you remain active and independent.
- Diabetic Polyneuropathy: Living with diabetes increases your risk for diabetic polyneuropathy, a type of nerve damage causing painful sensations like tingling, burning, or numbness. Careful monitoring of blood sugar, medication as prescribed, and regular checkups are essential to minimize discomfort and protect your overall health.
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. Lewis Semel offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Immunization: Immunizations are a simple yet effective way to boost your immune system, reducing the severity and frequency of common infections often seen in older adults.
- 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.
- Vaccination: Vaccinations help safeguard seniors against preventable diseases, empowering them to live healthier, more active lives and reducing their healthcare burden.
- Allergy Testing: This test helps your doctor create a comprehensive care plan to manage your allergies, including medication or avoidance strategies.
- Electrocardiogram (EKG): If you experience chest pain or shortness of breath, an EKG helps your doctor quickly diagnose the cause, providing timely intervention to prevent serious complications and ensuring your safety.
- Diabetes Counseling: Diabetes counseling supports you in making informed decisions about your diabetes care, including medication choices and lifestyle changes.
- Physical Examination: Through a physical exam, your doctor can detect subtle signs of illness or changes in your body, allowing for timely intervention and better management of chronic conditions.
- Abscess Incision and Drainage: This procedure is part of a holistic approach to senior care, helping to effectively treat an abscess, thereby preventing further spread and improving a patient's quality of life.
- 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.
- Urinalysis: To help manage your overall health, a urinalysis can detect early signs of urinary tract infections, diabetes, or other conditions affecting your urinary system.
- Chronic Care Management: This service provides ongoing support for seniors dealing with long-term illnesses, helping them track their health, manage medications, and prevent complications.
- Immunization Administration: Immunization administration is a crucial preventive care step to protect seniors from vaccine-preventable diseases, helping them maintain their health and independence.
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. Lewis Semel 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 potassium levels stabilized through medication adjustments and dietary changes, a senior couple felt more secure at home, enjoying evening walks together without the unsettling symptoms.
- After receiving prompt medical attention for the flu, a senior citizen quickly recovered, regaining their energy and returning to their beloved book club meetings.
- Feeling better and more comfortable at home, a senior was able to enjoy a relaxing evening with family, finally able to rest comfortably after managing a fever.
These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results vary and depend on many factors specific to each person. He 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. Lewis Semel:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Internists, like Dr. Semel, are primary care doctors who specialize in adult health. They are experts in the many health concerns that can occur as people age, and they excel at managing chronic conditions and coordinating care with other specialists.
- Does Dr. Lewis Semel have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Dr. Semel and our practice have extensive experience treating the unique health needs of older adults. Our internists are specifically trained in adult medicine and are highly experienced in managing conditions common in later life. We are dedicated to providing comprehensive care for seniors.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Semel's practice strongly believes in a team approach, and we welcome the involvement of family members and caregivers, with the patient's permission. Their participation is invaluable for ensuring clear communication and providing the best possible support.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Lewis Semel?
- Please bring a list of all 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 call our office.
- 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 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.
- How does Dr. Lewis Semel help patients manage their blood pressure?
- Dr. Semel's approach to managing blood pressure involves regular monitoring, lifestyle counseling (including diet and exercise recommendations), and a personalized plan to help patients reach and maintain healthy blood pressure levels.
801 Meadows Rd Ste 103
Boca Raton FL 33486
Phone: (561) 395-7494
Dr. Lewis Semel, 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): 1639154958
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. Lewis Semel 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.