Dr. Mark Smitherman, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at his clinic in Clearwater, FL. Registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), he is a trusted partner in your senior health journey. 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 serves primarily older adults (65 and older), but also includes younger adults with complex medical needs. Please call (727) 462-3696 to confirm if Dr. Smitherman is currently accepting new patients.
Dr. Mark Smitherman, MD is an internist in Clearwater, FL, with over 40 years of experience in the medical field. He earned his medical degree from the University of South Florida in 1984 and is Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. He is affiliated with Morton Plant Hospital and Mease Countryside Hospital and is accepting telehealth appointments. With this extensive experience, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. He is committed to collaborative, evidence-based medicine, creating a supportive environment where you and your loved ones feel heard and empowered in your healthcare decisions. Dr. Smitherman provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Mark Smitherman is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Mark Smitherman acts as a compassionate and dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care. He meticulously coordinates complex care, manages chronic conditions, and prioritizes your overall well-being and independence, ensuring you thrive as you age. His approach emphasizes understanding your personal needs and goals, working collaboratively with you and your family to create a personalized plan that maximizes your comfort and independence.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Mark Smitherman can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Aetna
- Aetna HMO (HMO)
- Anthem
- Blue Card PPO (PPO)
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Choice Plus POS II (POS II)
- Cigna
- Cigna HMO (HMO)
- Cigna PPO (PPO)
- First Health
- First Health (Coventry Health Care) PPO (PPO)
- HealthyBlue 2.0
- HealthyBlue Advantage
- LocalPlus
- MultiPlan
- MultiPlan PPO (PPO)
- National (BlueCard) PPO (PPO)
- Open Access Plus
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Mark Smitherman 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:
- Hypertension: Having hypertension means your heart has to work harder to pump blood, increasing the risk of strokes and heart attacks; however, with proper treatment and monitoring, you can significantly reduce these risks and maintain a good quality of life.
- Intestinal Diverticulitis: Diverticulitis, an inflammation of small pouches in your digestive tract, can be treated effectively with medication and dietary adjustments to help you stay comfortable and maintain your daily activities.
- Eczema and Contact Dermatitis: Managing eczema and contact dermatitis involves identifying and avoiding triggers like soaps or certain fabrics, using prescribed creams or ointments to relieve itching and prevent infection, and improving overall skin health and well-being.
- Obesity: Obesity is having excess body fat that can increase the risk of health problems, but with careful diet and exercise plans, you can manage it and improve your overall well-being.
- Heart Palpitations: Heart palpitations are a feeling of your heart beating too fast, too hard, or irregularly, and can be unsettling, but with proper medical assessment and management, you can regain a sense of comfort and control.
- Shortness of Breath: Feeling breathless can be frightening, but it's a common symptom with various treatable causes, so talking to your doctor is crucial for finding the right support and management.
- Osteoarthritis: As we age, osteoarthritis, a common form of joint wear and tear, can develop, causing pain and stiffness, but with your doctor's guidance, you can manage symptoms and enjoy a better quality of life.
- Swine Flu: If you're concerned about swine flu, know that it's a viral infection that commonly causes flu-like symptoms, and your doctor can prescribe medications to shorten the illness and prevent serious health issues, promoting better independence.
- Dry Skin: Dry, itchy skin is often a manageable issue for seniors; using hydrating lotions and avoiding harsh chemicals can keep your skin healthy and improve your daily life.
- Chronic Neck Pain: If persistent neck pain is limiting your daily activities, know that there are effective treatments available. We can help you explore options to manage your pain and increase your quality of life.
- Vertigo: Vertigo is a dizzying sensation, like the room is spinning, that can make it hard to walk safely and perform daily tasks, but with the right diagnosis and treatment from your doctor, you can manage it and regain your confidence.
- Hypokalemia: Experiencing muscle cramps, weakness, or heart palpitations? Low potassium (hypokalemia) might be the cause. Fortunately, this is often manageable with a personalized treatment plan from your doctor, improving your comfort and ability to participate in activities you enjoy.
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. Mark Smitherman 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).
- Care Coordination for Complex Conditions and Procedures: This service ensures a smooth care journey for seniors undergoing complex procedures, coordinating appointments and follow-up care for optimal recovery.
- Diabetes Counseling: With diabetes counseling, you'll work with a healthcare professional to set realistic goals and track your progress in managing your diabetes.
- 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.
- Fecal Occult Blood Test for Colorectal Cancer: As part of your regular checkups, a fecal occult blood test helps your doctor assess your risk of colorectal cancer and develop a personalized prevention plan.
- Human Papillomavirus DNA Testing: HPV DNA testing contributes to your ongoing cancer prevention efforts by enabling early detection of the virus, leading to timely interventions and improved health outcomes.
- 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.
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. Mark Smitherman 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 couple felt more confident in their ability to manage their daily activities, no longer worried about potential health complications from hypertension.
- Following a personalized treatment plan, a senior felt a significant reduction in digestive discomfort, allowing them to enjoy their favorite meals and return to their active social life.
- A senior felt a significant reduction in the persistent itching and discomfort from eczema and contact dermatitis, allowing them to return to their beloved hobby of knitting without interruption.
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. Mark Smitherman:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Dr. Smitherman and our practice are dedicated to providing comprehensive care for adults. Internists are primary care doctors who specialize exclusively in adult health, making them uniquely qualified to manage the complex health issues that often arise with aging. We focus on the management of chronic conditions and coordinating care with other specialists as needed.
- Does Dr. Mark Smitherman have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Dr. Smitherman is an internist, specifically trained in adult medicine, and has extensive experience managing the health needs of older adults, including conditions common in later life.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Smitherman's practice believes in a team approach and welcomes the participation of family members and caregivers, with the patient's permission. Their involvement is valuable in ensuring clear communication and support for the best possible care plan.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Mark Smitherman?
- To prepare for your appointment with Dr. Smitherman, 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 our office, we can perform common tests like EKGs, blood draws, and urine tests. These help us quickly assess your health and manage any conditions without needing a referral to another specialist right away.
- What is your philosophy on maintaining quality of life for patients with serious illnesses?
- Dr. Smitherman's philosophy centers on providing personalized care that prioritizes symptom management, aligning treatment with each patient's individual values and goals, and ensuring comfort and dignity throughout their journey.
400 Pinellas St Ste 350
Clearwater FL 33756
Phone: (727) 462-3696
Dr. Mark Smitherman, 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): 1346292265
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. Mark Smitherman 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.