Dr. Melissa Lafleur, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at her clinic in Hudson, FL. She 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 your senior health journey, she serves as your primary healthcare provider, coordinating complex care, managing chronic conditions, and focusing on your overall well-being and independence to help you thrive as you age. She is particularly attuned to the unique needs of older adults (65 and older), but also includes younger adults with complex medical needs in her practice.
Dr. Lafleur is committed to a collaborative, evidence-based approach to medicine, creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. She is Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine and is affiliated with Morton Plant Hospital and Mease Countryside Hospital. Dr. Melissa Lafleur, MD is an internist in Hudson, FL, and is currently welcoming new patients. Please call (727) 203-4065 to schedule an appointment. She provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Melissa Lafleur is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Melissa Lafleur is a compassionate partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care focused 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 emphasizes understanding your individual needs and goals, creating a personalized plan tailored to your unique circumstances.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Melissa Lafleur can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Blue Card High Performance Network HPN (HPN)
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- BlueCare HMO (HMO)
- BlueOptions
- BlueSelect
- Choice
- Cigna
- Cigna HMO (HMO)
- First Health
- First Health (Coventry Health Care) PPO (PPO)
- Florida Blue
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Melissa Lafleur 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:
- Nausea: Nausea is a common symptom with many possible causes, and finding the source is key to effective treatment and getting you back on your feet.
- 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.
- Shortness of Breath: Shortness of breath, or dyspnea, can make everyday activities feel harder, but understanding its cause and working with your doctor can often ease your breathing and improve your comfort.
- All Headaches (incl. Migraine): If headaches or migraines are affecting your ability to enjoy life's activities, know that there are effective strategies to reduce pain and improve your overall well-being, so let's discuss your options.
- Nail Infection: A nail infection, often caused by bacteria or fungus, can be treated with topical or oral medications to relieve pain and prevent further complications, helping you maintain your daily activities.
- Adult Failure to Thrive: Adult Failure to Thrive (AFTT) is a concerning decline in older adults marked by unintentional weight loss, decreased activity, and sadness. Working with a healthcare team to uncover and address the root causes can help restore their health and improve their enjoyment of life.
- Acute Upper Respiratory Infection: URIs are infections of your upper airways, like your nose and throat, causing congestion, cough, and sometimes fever. Gentle home care, including plenty of rest and fluids, will usually help you recover comfortably and quickly.
- 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.
- Sleep-Related Leg Cramp: Leg cramps at night can be effectively managed with lifestyle changes and medication, allowing for more restful sleep and greater independence.
- 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.
- 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.
- Urinary Incontinence: Experiencing accidental urine leakage can be embarrassing, but it's a very manageable condition. Your doctor can help find the right solution to improve bladder control and your overall comfort.
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 Lafleur offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Advance Directive End of Life Planning: This process helps you communicate your preferences for medical treatment, ensuring your comfort and dignity are prioritized at the end of life.
- Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): To create a personalized care plan, your doctor may order an arterial blood gas test to accurately assess your respiratory and overall health.
- Care Coordination for Complex Conditions and Procedures: Care coordination helps seniors with multiple health issues manage their conditions effectively by connecting them with the right specialists and resources.
- 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: Through timely immunizations, we can help prevent hospitalizations and complications related to infectious diseases, keeping seniors healthier and more active.
- Smoking Cessation Counseling: For seniors, smoking cessation counseling provides expert guidance and support to successfully quit smoking, leading to better cardiovascular and respiratory health.
- Cancer Screening: Cancer screenings are essential for managing your health as you age, giving you and your doctor the information needed to develop the best treatment strategy.
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 Lafleur 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:
- After experiencing persistent nausea, a senior felt empowered to resume their beloved daily walks in the park. The internal medicine's guidance, including dietary adjustments and medication, led to significant symptom reduction and a renewed sense of well-being.
- With medication to manage blood clots, a senior felt less pain and more secure moving about their home, allowing them to resume their beloved hobby of knitting.
- With the help of a personalized treatment plan, a senior was able to enjoy their afternoon walks again, feeling less breathless and more confident in their daily activities.
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. Melissa Lafleur:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Dr. Lafleur and her team are internists, which means they are primary care doctors who specialize in treating adults. They are experts in the various health concerns that often arise with aging, including managing chronic conditions and coordinating care with specialists when needed.
- Does Dr. Melissa Lafleur have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Yes, Dr. Lafleur is an internist, specifically trained in adult medicine, and has extensive experience in caring for the unique health needs of older adults. She is knowledgeable about the 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. Lafleur and our team believe in a team approach to care, and we welcome 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. Melissa Lafleur?
- To prepare for your first appointment with Dr. Lafleur, 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 calling your pharmacy directly. Please allow 2-3 business days for requests to be processed. If you have any questions, please contact 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.
- What kind of diagnostic tests can be done in your office?
- In Dr. Lafleur's office, we can perform common tests like electrocardiograms (EKGs), blood draws, and urine tests. These help us quickly assess your health and manage conditions without needing to refer you elsewhere right away.
- What is the practice's approach to discussing memory concerns or cognitive changes?
- Dr. Lafleur and our staff understand that memory concerns are important. We create a safe space to discuss these worries, offer initial cognitive screenings, and can coordinate referrals to specialists if needed.
7463 State Road 52
Hudson FL 34667
Phone: (727) 203-4065
Dr. Melissa Lafleur, 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): 1366896565
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 Lafleur 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.