Dr. Lowell Hart, MD is a medical oncologist and hematologist committed to providing compassionate, comprehensive oncological care for older adults. He is deeply dedicated to partnering with seniors facing cancer diagnoses, understanding the unique needs and challenges of this population. Registered with the Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458, Dr. Hart is a trusted resource, working collaboratively with primary care physicians and other specialists to craft personalized treatment plans. He is well-versed in managing complex conditions, offering expert medical care for common cancers such as breast, prostate, lung, colorectal, lymphoma, and leukemia.
As a general oncologist, Dr. Hart expertly addresses the diverse needs of older adults (65+) facing cancer diagnoses. He is currently welcoming new patients and encourages them to contact Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute at (239) 291-4978 to schedule an appointment. Dr. Hart's extensive experience includes serving as the Scientific Director of Clinical Research at Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute, a position that underscores his commitment to cutting-edge research and clinical trials. His background includes a distinguished career, marked by significant contributions to the field of oncology, including board certifications in Hematology, Internal Medicine, and Medical Oncology, and numerous publications. He provides consultations primarily in English.
Dr. Hart's approach to care is deeply rooted in empathy and a commitment to personalized treatment plans. His extensive training, from his medical degree at New York State University, School of Medicine Buffalo, to his fellowship at Duke University Medical Center, has instilled in him a profound understanding of the complexities of oncology. He is a recognized expert in the field, and his experience at Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute, where he has been a valued member since 1989, positions him to provide exceptional care for older adults in the Fort Myers, FL area. He brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to every interaction, recognizing that each patient's experience is unique and prioritizing their well-being.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. Lowell Hart is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Hart is a compassionate and dedicated partner in your senior's health journey, offering comprehensive oncological care for a wide range of cancers common in older adults. He collaborates closely with primary care physicians and other specialists to create personalized treatment plans, ensuring the best possible outcomes while prioritizing the individual needs and goals of each patient and their family.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Lowell Hart can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Aetna
Amerigroup (Wellpoint)
Coventry Health Care
Curative
Also Accepts These Carriers
- CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Cigna
- Curative EPO
- Curative PPO
- Curative PPO Plus
- First Health
- First Health (Coventry Health Care)
- First Health (Coventry Health Care) PPO
- Great West Healthcare-Cigna
- HealthyBlue Advantage
- Humana
- MultiPlan
- MultiPlan PPO
- Select
- Select HMO
- United Healthcare
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Lowell Hart 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:
- Endometrial Cancer: Endometrial cancer affects the lining of the womb, but advancements in treatment allow many older adults to receive effective care that extends their independence and comfort.
- Breast Carcinoma: Breast carcinoma is a type of cancer that starts in the breast tissue, and modern treatments like surgery, radiation, or medication can help control it and maintain your comfort and independence.
- Medulloblastoma: Medulloblastoma is a cancerous brain tumor that, while less frequent in seniors, requires a team approach including surgery, radiation therapy, and potentially chemotherapy to control its growth and lessen symptoms, which can allow you to maintain independence for as long as possible.
- Thyroid Cancer: Thyroid cancer is a disease where cells in the thyroid gland, located in your neck, grow uncontrollably, but with early detection and treatment, many seniors can maintain a high quality of life.
- Pleura Cancer: Pleural cancer, a type of lung cancer affecting the lining of the lungs, can be treated with various methods to manage symptoms and improve comfort, helping seniors maintain their quality of life.
- Pleural Cancer: Managing pleural cancer often involves a team of specialists who work together to create a plan that addresses symptoms and aims to help seniors live as comfortably as possible, focusing on maintaining function and independence.
- Stomach Cancer: Developing stomach cancer means there are cancerous cells growing in your stomach, but with modern treatments including surgery, targeted therapies, and supportive care, many seniors can manage their symptoms and maintain a good quality of life.
- Multiple Myeloma: Multiple myeloma is a cancer that starts in the plasma cells in your bone marrow, and while it can be serious, treatments like medication and supportive care help manage symptoms and improve your quality of life.
- Testicular Cancer: Even though testicular cancer is less frequent in older men, early detection and appropriate treatment, like surgery or chemotherapy, can significantly improve health and quality of life.
- Throat Cancer (Oropharyngeal): Oropharyngeal cancer, a cancer of the back of the throat, is treatable with options such as radiation therapy or surgery, both designed to improve comfort and extend life expectancy.
- Brain Cancer: Brain tumors can affect cognitive function and physical abilities, but modern treatments, tailored to the individual's needs and age, help manage symptoms and maintain independence as much as possible.
- Extramedullary Plasmacytoma: If you've been diagnosed with extramedullary plasmacytoma, a tumor outside the bone marrow, know that effective treatments are available to manage the condition and improve your comfort and quality of life.
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. Lowell Hart offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Biopsy of Breast: By analyzing a tissue sample from the breast, a biopsy helps doctors differentiate between benign and cancerous conditions, informing the best path forward for your care.
- Cancer Immunotherapy: Cancer immunotherapy harnesses your body's own immune system to fight cancer cells, offering a potentially less toxic treatment option for seniors.
- Cancer Pain Management: Cancer pain management helps seniors experiencing discomfort from cancer or its treatments find relief and improve their quality of life.
- Cancer Rehabilitation: Cancer rehabilitation helps seniors regain strength and function after cancer treatment, improving their quality of life.
- Cancer Treatment: Cancer treatment involves a team approach, incorporating specialists and support services to help seniors navigate their journey.
- Liver Biopsy: For seniors with suspected liver involvement from cancer or liver disease, a liver biopsy offers valuable diagnostic information to guide treatment decisions.
- Wedge Resection Colon: A wedge resection of the colon is a minimally invasive surgical option for some seniors with early-stage colorectal cancer, helping to remove cancerous tissue and improve their chances of recovery.
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 Oncology in Florida.
Dr. Lowell Hart 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:
- After treatment for endometrial cancer, a senior woman felt more secure in her home, able to enjoy her daily walks and garden without discomfort. Her family rejoiced at her renewed energy and independence.
- After undergoing treatment for breast carcinoma, a woman was able to resume her beloved knitting hobby, a source of comfort and joy, and felt more secure in her home environment.
- After a comprehensive treatment plan, including surgery and radiation, a senior with medulloblastoma regained the ability to enjoy quiet evenings reading to their grandchildren, a treasured family tradition.
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 (Hematology)
- American Board of Internal Medicine (Internal Medicine)
- American Board of Internal Medicine (Medical Oncology)
Here are answers to some common questions about Oncological care with Dr. Lowell Hart:
- What is an Oncologist?
- Dr. Lowell Hart and other oncologists are medical doctors specializing in cancer. Medical oncologists, like Dr. Hart, use medications like chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Surgical and radiation oncologists also play important roles, often working together to create a comprehensive treatment plan.
- What can I expect at my first visit with an oncologist?
- Your first visit with Dr. Lowell Hart will be a comprehensive consultation. We will review your medical records, pathology reports, and imaging scans to gather complete information. This is the first step in a partnership, where Dr. Hart will explain your diagnosis, discuss potential treatment options, and answer all your questions with care and compassion.
- Is age a factor in deciding on cancer treatment?
- While age is a factor, Dr. Hart considers a patient's overall health, fitness level, and personal goals more significantly. Personalized treatment plans are tailored to maximize effectiveness while minimizing side effects and preserving independence.
- What is immunotherapy?
- Immunotherapy is a groundbreaking cancer treatment that uses your body's own immune system to identify and attack cancer cells. Unlike chemotherapy, which directly kills cancer cells, immunotherapy "unleashes" your immune system to fight the cancer. This approach is often well-tolerated and can be a valuable treatment option.
- What does it mean if my prostate cancer is managed with 'active surveillance'?
- Active surveillance means your prostate cancer is slow-growing and low-risk, so we monitor it closely with regular blood tests and biopsies instead of immediate treatment. This approach avoids treatment side effects for cancers that may not need treatment. It's a safe and standard way to manage this type of prostate cancer.
- What is the difference between palliative care and hospice care?
- Palliative care focuses on relieving symptoms and stress from serious illness, like cancer, and can be provided alongside curative treatment at any stage. Hospice care is comfort care provided when curative treatment is no longer pursued.
- What is chemotherapy and what are the side effects?
- Chemotherapy is a powerful medication used to kill cancer cells throughout the body. While side effects like fatigue, nausea, and hair loss are a concern, many excellent medications and supportive care strategies are available today to effectively manage these side effects and maintain quality of life during treatment.
- How is breast cancer treated in older women?
- Treatment for breast cancer in older women is highly personalized, considering the specific cancer type and the patient's overall health. Options often include surgery, radiation, and hormone therapy pills, which are often well-tolerated. Dr. Hart works with a team to create the most effective and least disruptive treatment plan.
Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute
8260 Gladiolus Dr
Fort Myers FL 33908
Phone: (239) 291-4978
Dr. Lowell Hart, 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): 1245221993
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 provider named. Oncology like Dr. Lowell Hart 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.