Dr. Prem Varma, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at Florida Health Care Plans in Melbourne, 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 is experienced in the unique needs of both primarily older adults (65 and older), but also including younger adults with complex medical needs, and is currently welcoming new patients. Please call (321) 567-7760 to schedule an appointment. Dr. Varma's practice is part of Florida Health Care Plans, a local company with deep roots in the community, committed to providing reliable health insurance plans and high-quality, integrated care since 1974. He brings over 35 years of dedicated experience in Internal Medicine care, combining a wealth of clinical knowledge with compassionate care for his patients and their families. He earned his medical degree from the University of Kansas School of Medicine in 1989, completing an internship at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation and residency in Internal Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital - Case West Reserve, graduating in 1992. He is Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Dr. Varma is committed to collaborative, evidence-based medicine, creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. He provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Prem Varma is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Varma is a dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care that prioritizes your overall well-being and independence. He meticulously coordinates complex care, manages chronic conditions, and focuses on creating a personalized plan to help you thrive as you age. His compassionate approach ensures your health needs are met with understanding and respect, fostering a strong patient-physician relationship built on trust and collaboration.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Prem Varma can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
Cigna
Coventry Health Care
HealthLink
Medicaid of Arkansas
Medicaid of Illinois
Medicaid of Kentucky
Medicaid of Missouri
PHCS
Tricare
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Affinity Health Plan
- Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield EPO (EPO)
- Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield POS (POS)
- Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO (PPO)
- Buckeye Community Health Plan
- Cigna EPO (EPO)
- Cigna POS (POS)
- Cigna PPO (PPO)
- Coventry Health Care HMO (HMO)
- Coventry Health Care POS (POS)
- Coventry Health Care PPO (PPO)
- Curative
- Curative EPO (EPO)
- Curative PPO (PPO)
- Curative PPO Plus (PPO Plus)
- Elderplan
- Excellus BlueCross BlueShield
- Health Net
- HealthLink HMO (HMO)
- HealthLink POS (POS)
- HealthLink PPO (PPO)
- Medicare
- Medicare EPO (EPO)
- Medicare HMO (HMO)
- Medicare HMO-SNP (HMO-SNP)
- Medicare POS (POS)
- Medicare PPO (PPO)
- MultiPlan
- MultiPlan PPO (PPO)
- PHCS EPO (EPO)
- PHCS Network PPO (PPO)
- PHCS POS (POS)
- Tricare EPO (EPO)
- Tricare HMO (HMO)
- Tricare PPO (PPO)
- Tricare WC (WC)
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Prem Varma 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:
- Fever: Feeling feverish? It's important to let your doctor know as a fever can indicate an underlying illness requiring medical attention, which can impact your overall health and independence.
- Itchy Skin: Managing itchy skin involves understanding what triggers it and using strategies like cool compresses and over-the-counter medications, making everyday tasks more enjoyable and reducing stress for both the senior and caregiver.
- Emphysema: Emphysema is a progressive lung disease that affects your ability to breathe, but with proper care and treatment, including medication and lifestyle changes, you can manage your symptoms and live a fulfilling life.
- Poison Ivy: An allergic reaction to poison ivy often leads to a characteristic rash, but using soothing lotions and avoiding further exposure can help you manage the symptoms and prevent more discomfort.
- Insomnia: If you're having trouble sleeping, you're not alone—insomnia is a widespread issue, particularly among seniors, but it's manageable with the right approach, leading to improved daytime function and mood.
- Muscle Weakness: Muscle weakness, a common experience as we age, can make everyday tasks harder, but with proper diagnosis and management from your doctor, you can maintain your independence and enjoy life's activities.
- Hypercalcemia: Hypercalcemia, or high blood calcium, can sometimes affect energy levels and cause digestive issues, however, your doctor can help you manage this through treatment, ensuring you stay active and enjoy your daily life.
- Intestinal Diverticulitis: If you're experiencing abdominal pain and discomfort from diverticulitis, know that treatments like antibiotics and changes to your diet can significantly ease symptoms and improve your quality of life.
- All Headaches (incl. Migraine): Headaches, including migraines, are common but treatable types of head pain that can significantly impact your daily life, and we can work together to find ways to manage them and improve your comfort.
- Blood in Urine (Hematuria): Blood in your urine is a sign that needs a medical check-up. Early detection and proper care can ease your concerns and maintain your quality of life.
- Tobacco Use Disorder: If you or a loved one struggles with tobacco use, know that effective treatments and support groups are available to help overcome nicotine addiction, leading to a healthier, more fulfilling life.
- Acute Upper Respiratory Infection: An acute upper respiratory infection is a short-lived infection in your upper airways that can cause symptoms like a cough, sneezing, and congestion. While it can be uncomfortable, focusing on rest and hydration will usually help your body fight it off quickly, allowing you to maintain your 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. Prem Varma offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- 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).
- 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: Immunization administration is a key component of a comprehensive care plan, ensuring seniors receive protection against potentially debilitating infections.
- Injectable Contraception: Injectable contraception offers a convenient, long-acting birth control option for women who wish to avoid pregnancy.
- Barium Enema: A barium enema is a safe and effective way to investigate bowel problems, aiding your doctor in determining the cause of your symptoms and ensuring you receive the right care.
- Percutaneous Biopsy of Autologous Kidney: For seniors with unexplained kidney function changes, a percutaneous kidney biopsy is a valuable diagnostic tool to ensure appropriate care.
- Bursal Drainage: Bursal drainage is a procedure to remove excess fluid from a bursa, a fluid-filled sac that cushions joints, helping to alleviate pain and improve joint mobility in seniors.
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. Prem Varma 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 a consultation with the internal medicine specialist, a senior felt much better and more secure at home, able to resume their usual activities and enjoy their evening walks with family.
- After the internal medicine specialist helped identify triggers for her itchy skin, a senior woman found relief from the discomfort and was able to resume her favorite pastime of knitting without interruption.
- After receiving guidance on managing their emphysema, a senior couple found renewed energy to enjoy their favorite outdoor activities, walking in the park and tending to their flower garden with greater ease.
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. Prem Varma:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Dr. Varma's practice focuses on internal medicine, which means he's a primary care doctor specializing in the health of adults. He's uniquely trained to manage the complex medical conditions common in older adults, including chronic diseases, and to coordinate all your care needs.
- Does Dr. Prem Varma have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Dr. Varma's practice specializes in adult medicine, including the unique health needs of older adults. He has extensive experience managing conditions common in later life, such as heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis. Our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for seniors.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Varma and our practice believe in a team approach to care. We welcome the participation of family members and caregivers, with the patient's permission, as their input is invaluable for clear communication and support.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Prem Varma?
- To prepare for your first appointment with Dr. Varma, 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. If you have any questions, please call 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.
- How do you help patients who are at risk of falling?
- Dr. Varma's practice prioritizes fall prevention for our senior patients. We review medications for potential side effects, assess mobility, and recommend physical therapy or home safety evaluations as needed.
- Does Dr. Prem Varma treat acute illnesses like colds or the flu?
- Dr. Varma and our practice treat acute illnesses like colds and the flu. Please call the office as soon as you notice symptoms to discuss the best course of action for you.
Florida Health Care Plans
2222 Sarno Rd
Melbourne FL 32935
Phone: (321) 567-7760
Dr. Prem Varma, 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): 1720066350
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. Prem Varma 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.