Dr. Maria Gonzalez, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at her clinic in Cutler Bay, FL. 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. Gonzalez is board-certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. She brings extensive experience and a deep commitment to senior health, having completed her internal medicine residency at Lutheran Medical Center, affiliated with New York University, and earning her medical degree from the University of Medical Sciences of Havana. She is fluent in both English and Spanish, offering consultations in Spanish. Dr. Gonzalez is currently welcoming new patients, and you can schedule an appointment by calling (305) 508-3365. Her practice philosophy emphasizes patient-centered care and a dedication to medical excellence, reflecting her belief in the importance of compassionate and comprehensive care for each individual.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Maria Gonzalez is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Maria Gonzalez is a compassionate and dedicated partner in your senior health journey. As your internist, she provides comprehensive internal medicine care, meticulously coordinating complex medical needs and managing chronic conditions to maintain your overall well-being and independence. She prioritizes understanding your individual goals and preferences, creating a personalized plan that focuses on maximizing your comfort and quality of life as you age.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Maria Gonzalez can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Aetna
AvMed
Cigna
Humana
Preferred Care Partners
WellCare
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Buckeye Community Health Plan
- Medicaid
- Medicare
- Midwest Health Plan
- United Healthcare
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Maria Gonzalez 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:
- Muscle Cramping: Muscle cramping is a sudden, involuntary tightening of a muscle that can cause pain and discomfort, but with proper management, you can ease the pain and maintain your daily activities.
- Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common infection of the bladder or kidneys that can cause discomfort like burning during urination and frequent bathroom trips, but with prompt treatment from your doctor, you can feel better quickly and maintain your independence.
- Limb Pain: Don't let limb pain hold you back – many effective treatment options, such as pain medication, exercises, or assistive devices, can help you manage the discomfort and enhance your quality of life.
- Foot Infection: Foot infections are common, especially in older adults, but prompt medical attention leads to faster healing, reducing pain and the risk of more serious issues that could limit your independence.
- Herpes Zoster Without Complication: Managing shingles effectively involves antiviral medications and pain relief to improve comfort and help you maintain your daily activities.
- Pharyngitis: Managing a sore throat (pharyngitis) effectively can help maintain your daily routine and independence by easing discomfort and allowing you to eat and drink more easily.
- Leukocytopenia: If you have leukocytopenia, it's important to work closely with your doctor to understand what's causing it and to develop a treatment plan that strengthens your immune system and helps you maintain your independence.
- Dehydration: If you're experiencing dry mouth, less frequent urination, or unusual fatigue, dehydration could be the cause, a condition easily managed with appropriate hydration strategies to maintain your independence.
- Venous Embolism and Thrombosis: Dealing with blood clots (VTE) can be concerning, but treatments like medication can help dissolve the clots, reduce pain, and lower the risk of dangerous complications, improving overall wellbeing.
- Anal or Rectal Pain: Discomfort in the rectum or anus can significantly impact daily activities, but a proper diagnosis helps find solutions to manage the pain and maintain your independence.
- Tobacco Use Disorder: If you or a loved one struggles with tobacco use, know that effective treatments and support groups are available to help overcome nicotine addiction, leading to a healthier, more fulfilling life.
- Acute Bronchitis: Acute bronchitis is a short-term inflammation of the bronchial tubes, resulting in a cough; your doctor can help manage your symptoms to reduce discomfort and prevent complications, keeping you healthy and active.
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 Gonzalez offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Advance Directive End of Life Planning: By creating an advance directive, you actively participate in shaping your healthcare decisions and alleviate potential burdens on your loved ones.
- Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): By measuring oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in your blood, an arterial blood gas test helps your doctor monitor the effectiveness of your treatment for lung or heart problems.
- 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.
- Electrocardiogram (EKG): To create a personalized care plan, your doctor may use an EKG to detect irregularities in your heartbeat, such as an abnormal rhythm or signs of a heart attack, ensuring you receive the most appropriate treatment.
- Immunization Administration: Through timely immunizations, we can help prevent hospitalizations and complications related to infectious diseases, keeping seniors healthier and more active.
- Opiate Detoxification Using Buprenorphine: Buprenorphine aids in the safe and effective management of opiate withdrawal in older adults, improving their overall well-being as they navigate recovery.
- Tuberculosis Screening: Including tuberculosis screening in your comprehensive care plan ensures that any potential TB infection is identified and managed effectively.
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 Gonzalez 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 a tailored treatment plan, a senior citizen experienced significant relief from muscle cramping, allowing them to resume their beloved evening walks with newfound ease and confidence.
- A senior citizen, previously struggling with frequent and painful urination, found relief from their urinary tract infection (UTI) symptoms and regained confidence in their ability to manage their personal care independently. Their family was relieved to see their loved one back to their usual vibrant self.
- With personalized treatment, a senior felt less pain and more confident navigating their home, enabling them to resume their favorite hobby of playing cards with friends.
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 Internal Medicine (Internal Medicine)
Here are answers to some common questions about Internal Medicine care with Dr. Maria Gonzalez:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Internists, like Dr. Gonzalez, 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 conditions and coordinating care with other specialists.
- Does Dr. Maria Gonzalez have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Yes, Dr. Gonzalez is an internist, specializing in adult medicine, and has extensive experience treating the unique health needs of older adults. She is knowledgeable about the conditions frequently seen in later life.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Gonzalez's practice believes in a team approach and welcomes 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 Gonzalez?
- To prepare for your appointment with Dr. Gonzalez, 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 have written down.
- 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 diagnostic tests can be done in your office?
- In Dr. Gonzalez's office, we can perform common tests like EKGs, blood draws, and urine tests. These help us quickly assess your health and manage conditions without needing to refer you elsewhere right away.
- How does Dr. Maria Gonzalez approach managing type 2 diabetes?
- Dr. Gonzalez employs a comprehensive approach to type 2 diabetes management, encompassing medication management, consistent blood sugar monitoring, and crucial lifestyle counseling on diet, exercise, and foot care. This empowers patients to actively participate in their health and achieve optimal outcomes.
11000 SW 211th St
Cutler Bay FL 33189
Phone: (305) 508-3365
Dr. Maria Gonzalez, 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): 1265725238
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 Gonzalez 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.