Dr. Peter Ruggiero Jr, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at his clinic in Longwood, 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. Currently, Dr. Peter Jr is not accepting new patients, but you can call (407) 644-1111 to inquire about waitlists or future openings.
Dr. Peter Ruggiero Jr, MD is an internist in Longwood, FL and has over 35 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from Loyola University Chicago School of Dentistry in 1988 and is affiliated with AdventHealth Orlando. With over 35 years of dedicated experience in Internal Medicine care, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. He is Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Dr. Peter Jr is committed to collaborative, evidence-based medicine and creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. He offers consultations in Spanish.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Peter Jr is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Peter Jr. acts as a compassionate and dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care. He meticulously coordinates complex care, effectively manages chronic conditions, and prioritizes your overall well-being and independence, ensuring you thrive as you age. His approach emphasizes understanding your personal goals, working collaboratively with you and your family, and creating a personalized plan to maximize your comfort and independence.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Peter Jr 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)
- Blue Card High Performance Network HPN (HPN)
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- BlueCard PPO (PPO)
- BlueCare HMO (HMO)
- BlueOptions
- BlueSelect
- CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
- Choice
- Choice Care Network PPO (PPO)
- Choice Care PPO (PPO)
- Choice 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)
- Florida Blue
- HMO Premier HMO (HMO)
- HealthyBlue Advantage
- Humana
- Managed Choice (Open Access) POS (POS)
- National POS (POS)
- Navigate HMO (HMO)
- Navigate Plus POS (POS)
- Nexus Open Access
- Open Access Plus
- Open Choice PPO (PPO)
- Options PPO (PPO)
- Preferred PPO (PPO)
- Premier Care Network Plus - Innovation Health
- Seamless HMO (HMO)
- Select HMO (HMO)
- SimplyBlue
- UnitedHealthCare
- myBlue
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Peter Jr 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:
- All Types of Food Poisoning: Food poisoning, caused by harmful bacteria or toxins in food, leads to digestive upset; proper hydration and medical attention, when needed, help restore your comfort and energy levels.
- Chronic Pain: Chronic pain, which lasts for a prolonged period, can be addressed through various strategies like pain medications, physical therapy, and coping techniques to help you remain active and engaged in your daily life.
- Hypothyroidism: If you have hypothyroidism, it means your thyroid gland isn't producing enough hormones, which can impact your energy levels and well-being, but simple daily medication can bring significant improvements, helping you live more comfortably.
- Reflux Esophagitis: If you experience frequent heartburn or chest pain, talking to your doctor about reflux esophagitis is important for effective treatment and a better quality of life.
- Phlebitis and Thrombophlebitis: Phlebitis and thrombophlebitis are inflammations of a vein, sometimes with a blood clot, causing pain, swelling, and redness, often manageable with simple measures like elevation and compression.
- Hypertension: High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a common condition where the force of blood against your artery walls is too high, and managing it with medication and lifestyle changes can help you stay healthy and independent.
- Mineral Metabolism Disorders: If your body isn't processing minerals correctly, it can affect your bones, muscles, and even your heart. Working with your doctor to find the right treatment plan—often involving diet and medication—can help you stay active and healthy.
- Abdominal Pain: Experiencing abdominal pain? It's important to talk to your doctor to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment, potentially relieving discomfort and improving your daily life.
- Mood Disorders (Dysthymia and Cyclothymia): While persistent sadness (dysthymia) or unpredictable mood shifts (cyclothymia) can be challenging, many older adults find relief through a combination of talk therapy and, when needed, medication, enabling them to maintain independence and enjoy life's simple pleasures.
- COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease): COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is a lung condition that makes it hard to breathe, but with the right treatment and care, you can manage your symptoms and stay active.
- Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis happens when the cartilage cushioning your joints wears down, leading to pain and reduced movement; however, treatments like exercise, medication, and lifestyle changes can significantly improve your comfort and function.
- Blood in Urine (Hematuria): If you see blood in your urine, don't worry—your doctor can determine the cause through tests and recommend the right approach to help you feel better 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. Peter Jr offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Advance Directive End of Life Planning: Having an advance directive offers peace of mind, knowing your healthcare decisions align with your values and beliefs, easing anxieties for you and your family.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Peritoneal Dialysis Catheter Placement: The insertion of a peritoneal dialysis catheter helps seniors with end-stage renal disease efficiently remove waste products from their blood, improving overall well-being.
- Emergency Contraception Counseling: This counseling helps manage potential risks associated with unintended pregnancy in older adults, addressing a significant health concern that may impact their overall well-being.
- Foot Care: As part of a comprehensive care plan, foot care helps seniors maintain their independence by addressing potential mobility issues stemming from foot problems.
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. Peter Jr 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 debilitating food poisoning, a senior couple felt significantly better within a few days of receiving personalized care, allowing them to resume their weekly poker game with renewed energy and comfort.
- With chronic pain better managed through a combination of medication and coping strategies, a senior couple felt more confident navigating their home safely, enjoying evening strolls together again.
- With medication adjustments, a senior felt a noticeable increase in energy, enabling her to resume her beloved volunteer work at the local animal shelter.
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. Peter Jr:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Dr. Peter Jr. and his team are internists, meaning they are primary care doctors who specialize in adult health. They are experts in the many health issues that can arise with aging, adept at managing chronic conditions, and skilled at coordinating care with other specialists.
- Does Dr. Peter Jr have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Yes, Dr. Peter Jr. and our practice have extensive experience treating older adults. Internists are specifically trained in adult medicine and are highly experienced in managing the health needs of older patients, including conditions common in later life.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Peter Jr.'s practice believes in a team approach and welcomes the involvement of family members and caregivers, with the patient's permission. Their participation is valuable for ensuring clear communication and support throughout the care process.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Peter Jr?
- To prepare for your first appointment with Dr. Peter Jr., 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 prescription 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?
- 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 breathing or lung conditions do you manage?
- Dr. Peter Jr. and our team manage a variety of respiratory conditions, including asthma and COPD. We focus on helping patients effectively manage symptoms, use inhalers correctly, and develop personalized action plans to prevent future flare-ups.
- How does Dr. Peter Jr help patients manage their blood pressure?
- Dr. Peter Jr. helps patients manage their blood pressure by combining medication with regular monitoring, lifestyle counseling on diet and exercise, and a personalized plan to achieve and maintain healthy blood pressure levels.
1200 W State Road 434 Ste 112
Longwood FL 32750
Phone: (407) 644-1111
Dr. Peter Ruggiero Jr, 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): 1124022058
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. Peter Jr 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.