Dr. Michael Shahla, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at his clinic in Naples, FL. He 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. He primarily serves older adults (65 and older), but also includes younger adults with complex medical needs. He is currently welcoming new patients, so please call (239) 330-9999 to schedule an appointment.
With over 20 years of dedicated experience in Internal Medicine care, Dr. Shahla brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. Decisions based on your health are some of the most important decisions you will make in your lifetime. He understands this deeply, and strives to provide the best possible care with compassion, dignity, and respect. His goal is to bring the "small town doctor feel" to southwest Florida, fostering a good doctor-patient relationship that leads to mutual understanding about one's health, motivation, compliance, and optimal health. He earned his medical degree from Damascus University School Of Medicine in 2001, completed an internship, and undertook residency training in Internal Medicine at St. Joseph Hospital, specializing in the comprehensive medical care of primarily older adults. He is Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Dr. Shahla provides consultations primarily in English. Visit my website at www.nnimd.com for more information.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Michael Shahla is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Shahla acts as a dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care focused on your overall well-being and independence. He meticulously coordinates complex care, manages chronic conditions with empathy and precision, and prioritizes understanding your individual needs and goals, ensuring a personalized and supportive experience throughout your aging process.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Michael Shahla 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
- Anthem
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield
- Buckeye Community Health Plan
- CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Christian Care
- Curative
- Curative EPO (EPO)
- Curative PPO (PPO)
- Curative PPO Plus (PPO Plus)
- First Health
- First Health (Coventry Health Care)
- HealthyBlue 2.0
- Medi-Share
- Medicare
- MultiPlan
- MultiPlan PPO (PPO)
- National (BlueCard) PPO (PPO)
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Michael Shahla 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:
- Atherosclerosis: Atherosclerosis involves a buildup of fatty deposits in your arteries, decreasing blood flow to your organs. Fortunately, through careful management with your doctor, you can minimize its effects and live a fuller, healthier life.
- Urinary Incontinence: Many effective treatments exist for urinary incontinence, helping seniors regain confidence and reduce the impact on daily routines and social interactions. Don't hesitate to speak with your doctor.
- Magnesium Metabolism Disorders: Maintaining healthy magnesium levels is crucial for various bodily processes, and working with your doctor to identify and manage any imbalances can support your overall health and prevent complications.
- Candidiasis of Skin and Nails: Candidiasis, a yeast infection affecting the skin and nails, can be treated with antifungal medications to relieve discomfort and prevent further spread, helping you maintain your daily activities.
- Asphyxia and Hypoxemia: A lack of sufficient oxygen in the body, called asphyxia and hypoxemia, can lead to many complications; however, appropriate medical care, possibly including respiratory support or managing underlying diseases, can improve health and enhance the quality of life for older adults.
- Acute Upper Respiratory Infection: An acute upper respiratory infection (URI) is a common short-term illness affecting the nose, throat, and airways, often causing cold-like symptoms that can be managed with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications, helping you feel better and maintain your daily routines.
- Dysphagia: Dysphagia is difficulty swallowing, a common problem that can make eating and drinking challenging, but with the right care and strategies, you can still enjoy your meals and maintain your independence.
- Gout: Characterized by sudden, severe joint pain and swelling, gout is a manageable condition with proper medical care, improving your comfort and quality of life.
- Thyroid Disease: An underactive or overactive thyroid gland can disrupt your body's energy levels and overall function, resulting in various symptoms, but treatments such as hormone replacement therapy can help restore balance, enhancing your energy levels and overall quality of life.
- Hypotension (Excluding Maternal): Experiencing dizziness or faintness might be a sign of low blood pressure, a condition we can effectively treat to improve your overall well-being.
- Dizziness: If you're feeling dizzy, it's crucial to consult your doctor to identify the underlying cause and develop a personalized plan for managing your symptoms and preventing falls.
- Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR): Experiencing unexplained aches and stiffness? PMR is a possibility, and the good news is that it's often manageable with medication, allowing you to maintain your independence and enjoy a higher quality of life.
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. Michael Shahla offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Abscess or Fluid Incision and Drainage: This procedure helps manage infections by removing the source of inflammation, a key step toward a healthier and more comfortable life.
- Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): By measuring oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in your blood, an arterial blood gas test helps your doctor monitor the effectiveness of your treatment for lung or heart problems.
- 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): 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: To support your overall health, a fecal occult blood test is used to screen for colorectal cancer, allowing for early intervention and better health management.
- Immunization: Immunizations are a simple yet effective way to boost your immune system, reducing the severity and frequency of common infections often seen in older adults.
- Immunization Administration: Through timely immunizations, we can help prevent hospitalizations and complications related to infectious diseases, keeping seniors healthier and more active.
- Joint Injection: Joint injections are sometimes used to diagnose the cause of joint pain by observing the response to injected medication, aiding in creating a tailored treatment strategy.
- Pap Smear: As part of your comprehensive health plan, a Pap smear helps your doctor monitor the health of your cervix and guide decisions about future care.
- Skin Biopsy: As part of your overall health plan, a skin biopsy can help determine the cause of a skin problem and guide your treatment options.
- Spirometry: To effectively manage your lung disease, spirometry helps your doctor monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
- Wart Treatment: Including wart treatment in a senior's care plan ensures proactive management of minor skin conditions, preventing future issues.
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. Michael Shahla 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 careful management of atherosclerosis, a senior couple rediscovered their love for hiking, enjoying the scenic trails with renewed energy and confidence.
- After seeking guidance from an internal medicine specialist, a senior felt significantly more confident and secure at home, no longer worried about accidents and able to enjoy social gatherings without hesitation.
- With support for managing their magnesium levels, a senior couple found relief from the fatigue that had been hindering their ability to enjoy evening walks. They were now able to reconnect with their favorite hobby, and feel more energetic and secure in their home.
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. Michael Shahla:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Dr. Shahla and our practice are focused on the unique health needs of older adults. Internists are primary care doctors who specialize in adult health, making them uniquely equipped to handle the complex medical issues that often arise with aging. They are experts in managing chronic conditions and coordinating care with other specialists, ensuring comprehensive and effective treatment.
- Does Dr. Michael Shahla have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Yes, Dr. Shahla is an internist, specializing in adult medicine, and has extensive experience treating the unique 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. Shahla and our practice strongly believe in a team approach. We welcome the involvement of family members and caregivers, with the patient's permission, as their participation is invaluable for clear communication and support.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Michael Shahla?
- Please bring a list of all 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.
- 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.
- Does your office help with preventive care like flu shots and other immunizations?
- Dr. Shahla and our team are dedicated to preventive care for older adults. We provide essential adult immunizations, including annual flu shots, and help patients stay up-to-date on recommended screenings. We're committed to keeping you healthy and well.
- What is your philosophy on maintaining quality of life for patients with serious illnesses?
- Our philosophy centers on providing personalized care, managing symptoms effectively, and aligning treatment with each patient's unique values and goals. We prioritize comfort, dignity, and quality of life throughout the process.
10621 Airport Pulling Rd Ste 1
Naples FL 34109
Phone: (239) 330-9999
Dr. Michael Shahla, 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): 1548480270
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. Michael Shahla 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.