Dr. Mario Cucchiarella, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at Florida Health Care Plans in Port Orange, FL. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). As a trusted partner in senior health, Dr. Cucchiarella understands the unique needs of his patients and their families. 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. Cucchiarella is currently welcoming new patients, and they can call (386) 763-1000 to schedule an appointment. He brings over 40 years of dedicated experience in Internal Medicine care, informed by his medical degree from University C.E.T.E.C., School Of Medicine in 1982, and his Board Certification in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. He is part of Florida Health Care Plans, a company committed to offering quality care and coverage since 1974, and is deeply rooted in the community. Dr. Cucchiarella's approach to care is collaborative, evidence-based, and focused on creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel empowered in their healthcare decisions. He provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Mario Cucchiarella is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Cucchiarella is a dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care. He prioritizes your overall well-being and independence, meticulously coordinating complex care and managing chronic conditions. His approach emphasizes understanding your personal goals and creating a personalized plan to maximize your comfort and independence as you age.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Mario Cucchiarella can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Commercial Individual POS (POS)
- Florida Health Care Plan
- Ind/Fam/Emp Triple Option
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Mario Cucchiarella 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:
- Acute Bronchitis: Acute bronchitis is a common lung infection causing a cough, often with mucus, that usually gets better within a few weeks with rest and over-the-counter remedies, helping you breathe easier and feel more comfortable.
- Acute Lower Respiratory Infection: If you're struggling with a sudden onset of chest congestion, cough, and difficulty breathing, it could be an acute lower respiratory infection (ALRI); treatment helps alleviate symptoms, enabling you to breathe easier and live more comfortably.
- Adult Failure to Thrive: Adult Failure to Thrive (AFTT) reflects a decline in an older adult's overall health, often involving physical symptoms like weight loss and weakness, along with decreased social engagement. Addressing the underlying causes, whether medical, social, or environmental, can significantly improve their well-being and quality of life.
- Asphyxia and Hypoxemia: When someone experiences asphyxia and hypoxemia, it means their body isn't getting enough oxygen; treating the underlying cause, such as lung disease or heart problems, through medication or other therapies can help maintain their health and comfort.
- Cachexia: Cachexia is a serious condition causing unintentional weight loss and muscle wasting, often linked to chronic illnesses, and proper medical management can help improve your strength and energy levels.
- Dehydration: Feeling dizzy or lightheaded? This might be a sign of dehydration, a condition easily addressed by making sure you drink enough fluids throughout the day, protecting your health and well-being.
- Diabetes: Managing diabetes means working with your doctor to keep your blood sugar within a healthy range through healthy eating, regular exercise, and sometimes medication, helping you stay active and independent.
- Heart Disease: Heart disease refers to problems with your heart's structure or function, and treatments like medication and cardiac rehabilitation can help you stay active and independent.
- High Cholesterol: High cholesterol levels in your blood can silently damage your blood vessels, but with a doctor's guidance, dietary changes, exercise, and potentially medication, you can greatly reduce your risk of heart problems and maintain your overall well-being.
- Obesity: Having a higher than recommended body fat percentage, called obesity, can impact your health, but through a combination of lifestyle changes and, if needed, medical interventions, you can take control and feel better.
- Tobacco Use Disorder: For older adults, quitting tobacco is an important step toward better health and maintaining independence. Medical professionals offer many strategies to address tobacco use disorder and ensure a successful journey to a smoke-free life.
- Vascular Disease: Vascular disease involves issues with your blood vessels, impacting blood flow to vital organs. Working closely with your doctor on a management plan involving medication and lifestyle adjustments can dramatically improve your quality of life and 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. Mario Cucchiarella offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): This simple blood test helps assess your blood's acid-base balance, crucial for managing conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
- Electrocardiogram (EKG): As part of your routine checkup, an EKG can help identify early signs of heart disease, allowing for proactive management of your condition and improve your overall well-being.
- Immunization Administration: Getting vaccinated helps manage the risk of serious illnesses, such as influenza and pneumonia, common among older adults, thereby improving their overall well-being.
- Thyroid Biopsy: For seniors with thyroid issues, a biopsy can help confirm or rule out serious conditions like cancer, guiding your healthcare team in choosing appropriate treatments.
- Hydrothermal Endometrial Ablation: Hydrothermal endometrial ablation is a procedure that uses heat to destroy the lining of the uterus, helping to manage heavy menstrual bleeding in older women and improve their quality of life.
- Epidural Block: Epidural blocks are sometimes used to diagnose the source of back or leg pain, helping your doctor create a precise treatment plan.
- Cardiac Rehabilitation: As part of a comprehensive care plan, cardiac rehabilitation assists seniors in learning to live with heart conditions, improving their strength and endurance, and decreasing future heart-related complications.
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. Mario Cucchiarella 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 the guidance of a supportive internal medicine specialist, a senior citizen was able to manage their acute bronchitis, finally regaining their ability to enjoy evening walks with their beloved dog.
- Feeling significantly better after treatment for an acute lower respiratory infection, a senior was able to once again enjoy their favorite hobby of knitting, a comforting activity they had missed.
- With support for addressing underlying issues, a senior regained her appetite and energy, and rediscovered joy in spending time with family.
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. Mario Cucchiarella:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Dr. Cucchiarella's practice specializes in internal medicine, meaning he is a primary care doctor who focuses exclusively on adult health. He is an expert in the many health concerns that can develop as people age, including the management of chronic diseases and coordination of care with other specialists.
- Does Dr. Mario Cucchiarella have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Dr. Cucchiarella is an internist, specializing in adult medicine, and has extensive experience treating the unique health needs of older adults. He is well-versed in conditions common in later life, providing comprehensive care for seniors.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Cucchiarella and our team believe in a team approach to care. We welcome the participation of family members and caregivers, with the patient's permission, as their input is invaluable for clear communication and support.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Mario Cucchiarella?
- To prepare for your appointment with Dr. Cucchiarella, 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. Cucchiarella'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. Mario Cucchiarella approach managing type 2 diabetes?
- Dr. Cucchiarella takes a comprehensive approach to managing type 2 diabetes, focusing on medication management, regular blood sugar monitoring, and crucial lifestyle counseling. This includes personalized dietary recommendations, exercise plans, and detailed foot care instructions to empower patients in effectively controlling their condition.
Florida Health Care Plans
740 Dunlawton Ave
Port Orange FL 32127
Phone: (386) 763-1000
Dr. Mario Cucchiarella, 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): 1790756765
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. Mario Cucchiarella 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.