Dr. Nilsa Leiva, MD, Internist

Dr. Nilsa Leiva, MD

Internist in Port St. Joe, FL

(65 reviews)

Dr. Nilsa Leiva, MD is an Internal Medicine physician practicing at Optimum Point of Care in Bradenton, FL. She is a dedicated partner in senior health, committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care for older... Read More Below

Accepting New Patients Board Certified 30+ Years Experience
Professional Details

Dr. Nilsa Leiva, MD is an Internal Medicine physician practicing at Optimum Point of Care in Bradenton, FL. She is a dedicated partner in senior health, committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care for older adults. Registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), Dr. Leiva understands the unique healthcare needs of this population. 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. Leiva is currently welcoming new patients; please call (941) 345-1943 to schedule an appointment.

Dr. Nilsa Leiva, MD is an internist in Bradenton, FL, with over 30 years of experience in the medical field. She brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to her patients and their families. Dr. Leiva graduated from the University of New South Wales in 1992 and is affiliated with HCA Florida Blake Hospital. She earned her medical degree from Faculty of Medicine. Following medical school, she undertook residency training in Internal Medicine at Lincoln Medical Center, and San Juan De Dios Hospital, specializing in the comprehensive medical care of Primarily older adults (65 and older), but also including younger adults with complex medical needs. Further specializing, she pursued fellowship training at Jackson Hospital (graduated 2002), deepening her expertise in a specific area of patient health. Dr. Leiva is Board Certified in Geriatric Medicine and Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. She offers consultations in Spanish. At Healthcare America Medical Group, we provide the highest quality medical service for the Entire Family. We meet your health needs with a variety of primary care physicians and specialists in a 65,000 sq ft facility that includes the latest imaging and diagnostic equipment, clinical laboratory, physical therapy, and a pharmacy.

A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Nilsa Leiva is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.

Dr. Leiva is a compassionate and dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care. She prioritizes understanding your unique needs and goals, coordinating complex care and managing chronic conditions to help you maintain your independence and overall well-being as you age. Her approach centers on you, fostering a collaborative relationship with you and your family to create a personalized plan for optimal health and comfort.

By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Nilsa Leiva can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.

Specific Plans Accepted

Assurant Health
    Blue Cross Blue Shield
      Curative
        Medical Mutual of Ohio
          WellCare
            WellPoint

              Also Accepts These Carriers

              • Aetna
              • Anthem
              • AvMed
              • Blue Cross and Blue Shield
              • CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield
              • Choice Care (Humana)
              • Choice Care PPO (PPO)
              • Choice Plus
              • Choice Plus POS II (POS II)
              • ChoiceCare Network
              • Cigna
              • Curative EPO (EPO)
              • Curative PPO (PPO)
              • Curative PPO Plus (PPO Plus)
              • First Health
              • First Health (Coventry Health Care)
              • First Health (Coventry Health Care) PPO (PPO)
              • Great West Healthcare-Cigna
              • Great West Healthcare-Cigna PPO (PPO)
              • HealthyBlue 2.0
              • Humana
              • Medicaid
              • Midwest Health Plan
              • MultiPlan
              • MultiPlan PPO (PPO)
              • National (BlueCard) PPO (PPO)
              • Open Access
              • PHCS Network
              • PHCS Network PPO (PPO)
              • United Healthcare
              • UnitedHealthCare
              • WellCare PPO (PPO)

              Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Nilsa Leiva 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:

              • Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): UTIs are infections of the bladder or kidneys that often cause painful urination and discomfort. Early diagnosis and treatment by your doctor can prevent more serious health issues and allow you to stay active and healthy.
              • Heart Palpitations: Experiencing a fluttering, racing, or skipping heartbeat? These heart palpitations can be addressed through lifestyle changes, medication, or other interventions to help you maintain your daily activities.
              • 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.
              • Diabetes: Managing diabetes means working with your doctor to keep your blood sugar within a healthy range through healthy eating, regular exercise, and sometimes medication, helping you stay active and independent.
              • Dry Eyes: Dry eye is a common condition, especially as we age, where a lack of lubrication leads to irritation, itching, and burning; your doctor can help determine the best treatment plan for you to maintain comfortable vision.
              • Constipation: Managing constipation involves increasing fiber intake, drinking plenty of fluids, and regular exercise, all of which can help maintain independence and comfort.
              • Nail Infection: Fungal or bacterial infections under or around your nails can cause discomfort and disfigurement; early diagnosis and treatment from your doctor can quickly clear it up and avoid worsening.
              • Gait Abnormality: A gait abnormality is a change in the way you walk, which can make it harder to move around safely and comfortably, but with the right assessment and plan, it can be managed and often improved.
              • Hyperkalemia: Hyperkalemia is a condition where there's too much potassium in your blood, which can be managed with medication and dietary changes to keep your heart healthy and maintain your independence.
              • Hypotension (Excluding Maternal): Low blood pressure can sometimes lead to falls, but your doctor can work with you to find ways to prevent them and maintain your independence.
              • Gas-Bloat Syndrome: Gas and bloating can significantly impact your well-being, but understanding gas-bloat syndrome and its management—through diet, lifestyle, or medication—can help restore comfort and independence.
              • Muscle Weakness: Muscle weakness can impact your mobility and daily life, but it's important to know that there are effective treatments available. Working with your physician, you can regain strength and improve your 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. Nilsa Leiva 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): 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: This service ensures a smooth care journey for seniors undergoing complex procedures, coordinating appointments and follow-up care for optimal recovery.
              • Diabetes Counseling: Through diabetes counseling, you'll learn practical strategies for healthy eating, regular exercise, and medication management to improve your overall well-being.
              • 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.
              • 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.
              • Geriatric Assessment: This specialized assessment helps doctors diagnose underlying health problems, often unseen in a routine checkup, allowing for early intervention and improved quality of life.
              • Immunization Administration: Regular immunization updates ensure that seniors' immune systems are adequately prepared to fight infections, significantly contributing to their quality of life.
              • Obesity Counseling: Through discussions about diet and lifestyle, obesity counseling supports seniors in managing their weight, lowering the risk of related health problems like diabetes and heart disease.
              • Pap Smear: Regular Pap smears are a crucial part of preventive care, helping to identify precancerous changes before they become serious health problems.
              • Smoking Cessation Counseling: Smoking cessation counseling helps seniors develop a personalized plan to quit smoking, improving their lung health and overall well-being.
              • Vaccination: Vaccination is a simple yet powerful tool in managing chronic health conditions in older adults by boosting immunity and preventing severe complications.

              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. Nilsa Leiva 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:

              • A senior felt a significant reduction in urinary discomfort and regained their confidence in safely managing their daily activities at home, thanks to the personalized care plan.
              • After attending appointments and making lifestyle adjustments, a senior couple found their evenings free from the unsettling heart palpitations that had been disrupting their sleep and enjoyment of their favorite TV shows.
              • With the guidance of a knowledgeable professional, a senior was able to reduce their neck pain significantly, enabling them to enjoy their favorite hobby of knitting again without discomfort.

              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
              Education History
              • HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital Port St. Lucie (Residency Hospital)
              Board Certifications
              • American Board of Internal Medicine (Geriatric Medicine)
              • American Board of Internal Medicine (Internal Medicine)
              Awards & Recognitions
              • First place in research presented to the Congress of Internal Medicine of Guatemala, 1995
              • Latin American Congress of cardiology, 1994
              • Elected/Award among PGYII residents for a sponsored elective at St. VIncent Hospital, 1995
              • Second Place in research works presented to the Guatemalan Meeting of Cardiology, 1995

              Here are answers to some common questions about Internal Medicine care with Dr. Nilsa Leiva:

              What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
              Dr. Leiva and her team are internists, primary care doctors who specialize exclusively in adult health. They are experts in the complex health issues that can arise with age, including managing chronic diseases and coordinating care with other specialists.
              Does Dr. Nilsa Leiva have experience treating older adults or seniors?
              Dr. Leiva's practice specializes in adult medicine, including the specific needs of older adults. She has extensive experience managing the health concerns common in later life, providing comprehensive and compassionate care.
              Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
              Dr. Leiva and her team believe in a team approach to care, and welcome the involvement of family members and caregivers. Their participation, with the patient's permission, is valuable in ensuring clear communication and support throughout the care process.
              What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Nilsa Leiva?
              To prepare for your appointment with Dr. Leiva, 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. Dr. Leiva's office will follow up if there are any issues.
              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 Dr. Leiva's office, we can perform common diagnostic tests like electrocardiograms (EKGs), blood draws, and urine tests. These help us quickly assess your health and manage conditions without needing a referral to another specialist.
              What kind of breathing or lung conditions do you manage?
              Dr. Leiva's practice manages common respiratory conditions like asthma and COPD, focusing on helping patients effectively manage symptoms, use inhalers correctly, and create action plans to prevent future flare-ups.

              Optimum Point of Care
              3904 Cortez Rd W
              Bradenton FL 34210
              Phone: (941) 345-1943

              Dr. Nilsa Leiva, 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): 1114924339

              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. Nilsa Leiva 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.

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