Dr. Melissa Alsina, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at Moffitt Magnolia Campus in Tampa, 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. Alsina is currently welcoming new patients, and you can schedule an appointment by calling (888) 663-3488.
Dr. Alsina's extensive background, including her role as an associate professor of medicine in the Blood and Marrow Transplant Program at Moffitt Cancer Center and head of the Multiple Myeloma Transplant Program, underscores her deep commitment to senior health. A specialist in multiple myeloma and bone marrow transplantation, she focuses much of her research on the progression of bone disease in multiple myeloma, myeloma-stromal cell interactions, myeloma drug resistance and novel molecular therapies. 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 earned her medical degree from University Of Puerto Rico School Of Medicine in 1988, followed by residency training in Internal Medicine at Vet Affairs Medical Center, and subsequent fellowship training in Hematology at San Juan Hospital, Puerto Rico, and Hematology/Oncology at the University of Texas Health Science Center. She is Board Certified in Hematology by the American Board of Internal Medicine, and Board Certified in Oncology by the American Board of Medical Specialties. Dr. Melissa Alsina offers consultations in Spanish.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Melissa Alsina is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Melissa Alsina is a dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care with a compassionate focus on your overall well-being. She expertly coordinates complex care, manages chronic conditions, and prioritizes maintaining your independence and quality of life as you age. Her approach centers on understanding your personal needs and goals, creating a personalized plan to help you thrive.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Melissa Alsina can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Aetna
Cigna
Coventry Health Care
Humana
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Buckeye Community Health Plan
- Curative
- Curative EPO (EPO)
- Curative PPO (PPO)
- Curative PPO Plus (PPO Plus)
- Medicaid
- Medicare
- Midwest Health Plan
- MultiPlan
- MultiPlan PPO (PPO)
- United Healthcare
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Melissa Alsina 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 Leukemia: If diagnosed with acute leukemia, a serious blood cancer, know that treatments such as chemotherapy are designed to help your body produce healthy blood cells again, leading to better energy and overall health.
- von Willebrand Disease: Von Willebrand disease is a bleeding disorder where your blood doesn't clot as easily as it should, but with proper management, you can live a full and active life.
- Intestinal Diverticulitis: Diverticulitis, characterized by inflamed pouches in your intestines, might cause abdominal pain, but effective treatments and preventive strategies, including dietary adjustments, will help reduce discomfort and maintain your health.
- Thalassemia: Thalassemia is an inherited blood disorder where your body doesn't make enough hemoglobin, the protein that carries oxygen throughout your body, leading to fatigue and requiring ongoing medical management to maintain a good quality of life.
- Common Cold: For older adults, a common cold may sometimes lead to more significant fatigue and weakness, so prioritizing rest and hydration are particularly important for a faster recovery and maintaining your overall well-being.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Skin: This common skin cancer, squamous cell carcinoma, is usually treatable, and early detection through regular checkups is key to improving your overall health and well-being.
- Primary Hypercoagulable State: A primary hypercoagulable state indicates an increased tendency for your blood to form clots, potentially resulting in serious health problems, but effective treatment plans, often involving blood-thinning medications, can lower your risk and enhance your overall well-being.
- Constipation: If constipation is persistent or severe, consulting your doctor can lead to a personalized plan to relieve symptoms and prevent complications, enhancing your daily life.
- Sickle Cell Disease: Sickle cell disease affects how your body makes red blood cells, potentially leading to painful episodes and other health challenges, however, regular check-ups and treatments can significantly reduce symptoms and improve your overall well-being.
- Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP): ITP is a disorder where your blood doesn't clot as well as it should because of low platelet levels, leading to increased bleeding; but the good news is that effective treatment plans, tailored to your individual needs, are available to keep you healthy and active.
- Gastroptosis: A dropped stomach, medically termed gastroptosis, might cause some digestive upset, but thankfully, most cases are managed through dietary modifications and regular exercise, leading to improved comfort and well-being.
- Neutropenia: Neutropenia, a low level of infection-fighting white blood cells, may make you more susceptible to infections, but by taking precautions and following your doctor's plan, you can reduce your chances of getting sick and stay independent.
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. Melissa Alsina 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.
- Bone Marrow Transplant: In some instances, a bone marrow transplant is incorporated into a senior's care plan as a potentially life-saving treatment for specific blood diseases, improving their quality of life and outlook.
- 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: By detecting microscopic blood in your stool, the fecal occult blood test plays a critical role in early diagnosis and management of colorectal cancer, a common concern for seniors.
- Immunization Administration: Regular immunization updates ensure that seniors' immune systems are adequately prepared to fight infections, significantly contributing to their quality of life.
- Chemodenervation: For seniors struggling with uncontrolled muscle movements, chemodenervation offers a targeted treatment to relieve discomfort and enhance their mobility.
- Suture Removal: This routine procedure helps to manage the healing process of any wounds requiring sutures for closure, supporting an elderly patient's 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. Melissa Alsina 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 support of compassionate care, a patient with acute leukemia experienced a noticeable improvement in energy levels, allowing them to resume their favorite hobby of knitting with renewed enthusiasm.
- With a personalized treatment plan, a senior was able to resume their beloved hobby of hiking, finding improved confidence and freedom from the anxieties related to bleeding episodes.
- After experiencing significant abdominal pain, a senior felt much-needed relief thanks to a personalized treatment plan that included dietary changes and medication, allowing them to resume their favorite hobby of gardening again.
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 (Hematology)
- American Board of Medical Specialties (Oncology)
Here are answers to some common questions about Internal Medicine care with Dr. Melissa Alsina:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Dr. Alsina and her team are internists, which means they are primary care doctors specializing in adult health. They are experts in the many health issues that can come with aging, including managing chronic conditions and coordinating care with other specialists.
- Does Dr. Melissa Alsina have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Dr. Alsina's practice specializes in adult medicine, including the specific health needs of older adults. She has extensive experience managing conditions common in later life, and is well-equipped to provide comprehensive care.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Alsina 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 invaluable for ensuring clear communication and support throughout the care process.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Melissa Alsina?
- To prepare for your appointment with Dr. Alsina, 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 address.
- 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?
- Our practice accepts Medicare. To ensure we are in-network with your particular plan, please call the number on your insurance card or contact our billing office for assistance.
- How do you manage chronic pain, such as arthritis?
- Dr. Alsina and her team use a multifaceted approach to manage chronic pain, such as arthritis. This includes appropriate medication, referrals to physical therapy, and discussions about lifestyle adjustments to help manage discomfort and maintain activity levels.
- What kind of breathing or lung conditions do you manage?
- Dr. Alsina and her team manage common respiratory conditions like asthma and COPD, focusing on helping patients effectively manage symptoms, use inhalers correctly, and develop personalized action plans to prevent flare-ups.
Moffitt Magnolia Campus
12902 Usf Magnolia Dr
Tampa FL 33612
Phone: (888) 663-3488
Dr. Melissa Alsina, 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): 1184656746
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. Melissa Alsina 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.