Dr. Maria Cortinas, MD, Internist

Dr. Maria Cortinas, MD

Internist in Port St. Joe, FL

(4 reviews)

Dr. Maria Cortinas, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at her clinic in Cutler Bay, FL. As a trusted partner in your senior health journey, she... Read More Below

Accepting New Patients 35+ Years Experience
Professional Details

Dr. Maria Cortinas, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at her clinic in Cutler Bay, FL. As a trusted partner in your senior health journey, 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.

Dr. Maria Cortinas, MD is an internist in Cutler Bay, FL and has over 35 years of experience in the medical field. She earned her medical degree from Tulane University Of Louisiana in 1986 and is affiliated with medical facilities such as Homestead Hospital and South Miami Hospital. With over 35 years of dedicated experience in Internal Medicine care, she brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to her patients and their families. She is committed to collaborative, evidence-based medicine, creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. Dr. Cortinas is currently welcoming new patients and telehealth appointments. Please call (305) 253-0040 to schedule an appointment. Dr. Maria Cortinas provides consultations primarily in English.

A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Maria Cortinas is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.

Dr. Maria Cortinas is a compassionate and dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care. She meticulously coordinates complex care, effectively manages chronic conditions, and prioritizes your overall well-being and independence, empowering you to thrive as you age. Her approach emphasizes understanding your personal goals and creating a personalized plan that maximizes your comfort and independence.

By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Maria Cortinas can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.

Specific Plans Accepted

Aetna

    Also Accepts These Carriers

    • Ambetter
    • 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)
    • Blue Select 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)
    • 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)
    • Engage (large group) HMO (HMO)
    • Engage - Small Employer Groups
    • First Health
    • First Health (Coventry Health Care) PPO (PPO)
    • Florida Blue
    • Focus - Small Employer Groups
    • 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 Choice PPO (PPO)
    • Options PPO (PPO)
    • Preferred Patient Care
    • Premier Care Network Plus - Innovation Health
    • Select HMO (HMO)
    • Superior Health Plan
    • UnitedHealthCare

    Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Maria Cortinas 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:

    • Asthma: If you have asthma, it means your lungs' airways become narrow and inflamed, making it hard to breathe, but regular treatment can significantly improve your lung function and quality of life.
    • Hypotension (Excluding Maternal): Managing hypotension involves understanding your triggers and adjusting medications or lifestyle to keep your blood pressure stable and prevent complications.
    • Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR): Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is a condition causing muscle pain and stiffness, mainly in the shoulders and hips, that's often successfully treated with low-dose daily medication, significantly improving mobility and daily life.
    • Hypogonadism: As we age, hormone levels naturally decline, sometimes leading to hypogonadism, a condition characterized by low sex hormones. Treatment may involve hormone replacement to help alleviate symptoms and maintain a fulfilling life.
    • Liver Damage from Alcohol: For seniors, managing alcohol-related liver damage often involves reducing or stopping alcohol consumption, along with medications and a healthy diet, to help maintain your independence.
    • Menopausal and Postmenopausal Disorders: For women experiencing discomfort or distress due to menopausal or postmenopausal changes, understanding treatment options—ranging from medication to natural therapies—can lead to improved management and a better quality of life.
    • Herpes Zoster Without Complication: Herpes zoster, commonly known as shingles, is a viral infection that can cause a painful, blistering rash; prompt medical attention helps shorten the duration and severity of symptoms.
    • Hypotension: Hypotension, or low blood pressure, can make you feel dizzy or lightheaded, but understanding its causes and managing it with your doctor can help you stay safe and independent.
    • 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: Experiencing coughing, fever, and difficulty breathing might indicate pneumonia; early diagnosis and treatment with medication and supportive care is key to preventing complications and ensuring you can continue living your life fully.
    • Muscle Cramping: Experiencing muscle cramps? These are often temporary and treatable, helping you stay active and independent.
    • Muscle Spasm: Muscle spasms, those sudden, painful muscle contractions, are common as we age, but simple strategies like staying hydrated, gentle exercise, and warm baths can help manage them 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. Maria Cortinas offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:

    • Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): This test provides valuable information about your body's oxygenation and helps your doctor make informed decisions about your medication and treatment.
    • Care Coordination for Complex Conditions and Procedures: Care coordination creates a personalized plan that addresses all aspects of a senior's health, improving their quality of life and preventing complications.
    • 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.
    • 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: This easy test, checking for hidden blood in your stool, can help your doctor find and manage colorectal cancer early, improving treatment outcomes.
    • Immunization Administration: Immunization administration is a crucial preventive care step to protect seniors from vaccine-preventable diseases, helping them maintain their health and independence.
    • Pap Smear: Including a Pap smear in your routine checkups empowers you and your doctor to actively manage your long-term health and well-being.
    • Smoking Cessation Counseling: Smoking cessation counseling is a crucial step in diagnosing and addressing smoking-related illnesses and preventing future health complications in seniors.

    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. Maria Cortinas 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 regular check-ups and medication, a senior was able to enjoy their daily walks without the wheezing and shortness of breath that had previously limited their activity.
    • With guidance on managing their hypotension, a senior felt more secure at home, able to confidently participate in their daily activities without the worry of sudden drops in blood pressure. The family also reported a noticeable reduction in anxiety related to their loved one's well-being.
    • With the help of a personalized treatment plan, a senior was able to resume daily walks in the park, a cherished activity that had been difficult due to PMR pain and stiffness. The family felt tremendous relief knowing their loved one's mobility and quality of life had significantly improved.

    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
    Education History
    • HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital Port St. Lucie (Residency Hospital)

    Here are answers to some common questions about Internal Medicine care with Dr. Maria Cortinas:

    What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
    Dr. Cortinas and her team are internists, which means they are primary care doctors who specialize in treating adults. They are experts in the many health issues that can come with aging, and are skilled at managing chronic conditions and coordinating care with other specialists.
    Does Dr. Maria Cortinas have experience treating older adults or seniors?
    Dr. Cortinas and other internists are specifically trained in adult medicine, including the unique health needs of older adults. They have extensive experience managing conditions common in later life, such as heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis. Her practice is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for seniors.
    Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
    Dr. Cortinas 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 throughout the care process.
    What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Maria Cortinas?
    To prepare for your appointment with Dr. Cortinas, 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 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 kind of breathing or lung conditions do you manage?
    Dr. Cortinas and her team manage common respiratory conditions such as asthma and COPD. We focus on helping patients understand and 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?
    Dr. Cortinas and her team prioritize fall prevention. We review medications for potential side effects, assess mobility, and recommend physical therapy or home safety evaluations to help reduce fall risk.

    18430 S Dixie Hwy Ste 101
    Cutler Bay FL 33157
    Phone: (305) 253-0040

    Dr. Maria Cortinas, 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): 1477685873

    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. Maria Cortinas 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.

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