Dr. Mercedes Vazquez, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at her clinic in Homestead, FL. She is a registered member of The Florida Board of Medicine, practicing 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. Mercedes Vazquez, MD is an internist in Homestead, FL. She is affiliated with Homestead Hospital. She is accepting new patients and telehealth appointments. She earned her medical degree from Bronx Lebanon Hospital Center and is Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Dr. Vazquez 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 provides consultations primarily in English. Please call (305) 242-0911 to schedule an appointment.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Mercedes Vazquez is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Vazquez is a dedicated partner in your health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care focused on your overall well-being and independence. She meticulously coordinates complex care, effectively manages chronic conditions, and prioritizes understanding your personal goals to create a plan that maximizes your comfort and independence as you age.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Mercedes Vazquez can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- APCN Choice POS II (POS II)
- Aetna
- Aetna HMO (HMO)
- AvMed
- Blue Card High Performance Network HPN (HPN)
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- BlueCard PPO (PPO)
- BlueCare HMO (HMO)
- BlueOptions
- BlueSelect
- CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
- Choice
- Choice Large Group POS (POS)
- Choice Plus POS (POS)
- Choice Plus POS II (POS II)
- Cigna
- Cigna HMO (HMO)
- Cigna PPO (PPO)
- Elect Choice (Open Access) EPO (EPO)
- First Health
- First Health (Coventry Health Care) PPO (PPO)
- Florida Blue
- HealthyBlue Advantage
- Managed Choice (Open Access) POS (POS)
- Navigate HMO (HMO)
- Navigate Plus POS (POS)
- Nexus Open Access
- Open Access Plus
- Open Choice PPO (PPO)
- Options PPO (PPO)
- Premier Care Network Plus - Innovation Health
- Seamless HMO (HMO)
- SureFit South Florida
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Mercedes Vazquez 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:
- Asphyxia and Hypoxemia: Asphyxia and hypoxemia refer to a lack of oxygen in the body, which can be caused by breathing problems or other medical conditions; prompt medical attention is crucial to restore oxygen levels and prevent serious complications, improving quality of life and maintaining independence.
- Leukocytopenia: Having too few white blood cells, called leukocytopenia, can make you more vulnerable to infections, but with proper medical care and monitoring, we can help keep you safe and comfortable.
- Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism is an underactive thyroid gland, meaning it doesn't produce enough hormones to keep your body functioning at its best, but with medication, you can feel more energetic and manage your symptoms effectively.
- Sciatica: Sciatica is pain that radiates down your leg from your lower back, often caused by a pinched nerve, and managing it with gentle exercise, over-the-counter pain relievers, and physical therapy can significantly reduce discomfort and maintain your mobility.
- Muscle Weakness: Feeling weaker in your muscles? Don't worry, many things can cause this, and your internal medicine doctor can help identify the cause and create a plan to improve your strength and energy levels.
- Sickle Cell Disease: Sickle cell disease is a blood disorder where abnormal red blood cells can block blood flow, causing pain and organ damage, but with proper medical care, many individuals can live long and fulfilling lives.
- Blepharitis: Experiencing eyelid irritation? Blepharitis is a common condition involving eyelid inflammation, often eased with simple home care like cleansing and warm compresses, helping you maintain your daily routines.
- Neurogenic Bladder: Neurogenic bladder results from nerve damage affecting bladder function, causing urinary problems, but through medication, lifestyle changes, or other treatments, you can significantly improve your comfort and quality of life.
- Hypogonadism: Hypogonadism is a hormonal imbalance that can affect men and women differently, causing symptoms like low energy or changes in mood and sex drive. Fortunately, it's often treatable with medication to help you feel your best.
- Asthma: Asthma makes breathing difficult due to inflamed airways, but with proper medication and a plan from your doctor, you can control your symptoms and stay active.
- Long COVID Disorder: Experiencing ongoing health problems after a COVID-19 infection may mean you have Long COVID. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and improving your overall health, helping you stay as active and engaged as possible.
- Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis that causes joint pain and stiffness, often making everyday activities more challenging, but with proper management, you can maintain your mobility 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. Mercedes Vazquez offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Abscess or Fluid Incision and Drainage: Draining an abscess or fluid collection helps clear infections and reduce discomfort, supporting your overall health and well-being.
- Advance Directive End of Life Planning: Advance directive end-of-life planning allows you to make informed choices about your medical care, even if you can no longer communicate them yourself.
- 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).
- Cardiovascular Disease Counseling: This service provides guidance on managing existing heart conditions, such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol, to prevent complications.
- 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): An electrocardiogram (EKG) is a simple test that uses small sensors placed on your chest to check your heart's rhythm and electrical activity, helping your doctor assess your heart health and manage any potential problems.
- Fecal Occult Blood Test for Colorectal Cancer: A fecal occult blood test is a simple screening tool that can help detect hidden blood in your stool, an early sign that might indicate colorectal cancer.
- 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.
- Obesity Counseling: Obesity counseling helps seniors identify potential barriers to weight management and provides them with strategies to overcome these challenges, creating a path to improved health outcomes.
- Pap Smear: This quick test can help manage your risk of cervical cancer by detecting abnormal cells early, enabling prompt intervention.
- Smoking Cessation Counseling: Smoking cessation counseling helps seniors develop a personalized plan to quit smoking, improving their lung health and 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. Mercedes Vazquez 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 improved breathing treatments, a senior couple felt more secure at home, able to enjoy evening walks and conversations with family without breathlessness.
- With careful monitoring and treatment for leukocytopenia, a senior felt more secure and confident in their ability to safely enjoy their daily activities, including visiting their favorite local coffee shop.
- With medication and guidance, a senior felt a noticeable improvement in energy levels, allowing them to return to their favorite hobby of knitting and spending time with loved ones.
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. Mercedes Vazquez:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Dr. Vazquez and her team are internists, which means they are primary care doctors who specialize in treating adults. They are particularly skilled in the unique health concerns that can arise with aging, including managing chronic conditions and coordinating care with other specialists.
- Does Dr. Mercedes Vazquez have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Dr. Vazquez is an internist, meaning she has specialized training in adult medicine and is highly experienced in caring for the specific health needs of older adults. She is knowledgeable about the conditions that are common in later life, and she is committed to providing the best possible care for her senior patients.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Vazquez and our team believe in a team approach to care. We welcome the participation of family members and caregivers, with the patient's consent, as their input is invaluable for clear communication and ensuring comprehensive support.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Mercedes Vazquez?
- To prepare for your appointment with Dr. Vazquez, 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 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 is your approach to medication management, especially for patients taking many prescriptions (polypharmacy)?
- Dr. Vazquez's practice prioritizes medication management, especially for patients taking multiple medications. We regularly review prescriptions to identify and address potential drug interactions, eliminate unnecessary medications, and ensure the overall medication plan is safe and effective for each patient.
- How does your practice support patients with multiple chronic conditions?
- Dr. Vazquez's practice works as a central hub, coordinating care with specialists to create a unified plan. We carefully manage medications to avoid conflicts and ensure all treatments support each other. This personalized approach simplifies healthcare for patients with multiple chronic conditions.
950 N Krome Ave Ste 203
Homestead FL 33030
Phone: (305) 242-0911
Dr. Mercedes Vazquez, 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): 1134396724
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. Mercedes Vazquez 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.