Dr. Richard Houston, DO is an Internal Medicine physician practicing at his clinic in Lakewood Ranch, FL. He is dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive Internal Medicine care for older adults, registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and 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. He primarily serves older adults (65 and older), but also including younger adults with complex medical needs.
Dr. Richard Houston, DO is an internist in Lakewood Ranch, FL. He is affiliated with medical facilities such as Sarasota Memorial Hospital Venice and HCA Florida Englewood Hospital. He earned his medical degree from Lake Erie College Of Osteopathic Medicine and is Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Osteopathic Board of Internal Medicine. Dr. Houston 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 is not accepting new patients, but inquiries about waitlists or future openings can be made by calling (918) 289-7085. Dr. Houston provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Richard Houston is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Richard Houston is a dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care that prioritizes your overall well-being and independence. He expertly manages chronic conditions, coordinates complex care, and focuses on helping you thrive as you age, always keeping your personal goals and preferences at the forefront of his approach.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Richard Houston can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- First Health
- First Health (Coventry Health Care) PPO (PPO)
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Richard Houston 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:
- Benign Chronic Pain Syndrome: Benign Chronic Pain Syndrome means you have long-term pain without a specific, identifiable disease. We can work together to find the right combination of treatments and coping mechanisms so you can live more comfortably.
- Hypotension: Hypotension, or low blood pressure, can make you feel dizzy or lightheaded, but understanding its causes and managing it with your doctor can help you stay safe and independent.
- Atherosclerosis: With atherosclerosis, your arteries become stiff and less flexible, affecting blood flow. By following your doctor's plan, including medication and healthy habits, you can lessen its impact and maintain your ability to enjoy everyday life.
- Fibromyalgia: While fibromyalgia involves ongoing pain, stiffness, and tiredness, it's important to know that many effective strategies exist to reduce symptoms and improve your overall quality of life, allowing you to enjoy activities you love.
- Migraine: Migraines can cause intense head pain and other symptoms like vomiting and dizziness, impacting daily activities, but treatment options, such as medication and relaxation techniques, help many seniors live more comfortably and independently.
- Cough: Dealing with a cough can be frustrating, but understanding its cause – whether it's a cold, allergies, or a more serious condition – is the first step towards effective management and improved comfort.
- Dysentery: Dysentery is characterized by painful, frequent bowel movements with blood or mucus, causing discomfort, but treatment with fluids and medication can quickly alleviate symptoms and restore your health.
- Acute Bronchitis: If you've developed a cough and chest congestion, it might be acute bronchitis, a temporary lung infection that often resolves on its own with supportive care, allowing you to maintain your independence.
- Histoplasmosis: If you've been exposed to bird or bat droppings and are experiencing flu-like symptoms, you might have histoplasmosis, a treatable fungal infection.
- Sleep Apnea: Sleep apnea is a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, leading to daytime sleepiness and impacting overall health, but thankfully, treatment like CPAP machines can significantly improve sleep quality and daily life.
- Hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids, or piles, are common and often manageable with simple lifestyle changes like increased fiber intake and avoiding straining during bowel movements, significantly improving comfort and well-being.
- Hypokalemia: Hypokalemia means you have a deficiency of potassium in your blood, leading to symptoms like muscle weakness and tiredness; your doctor can help you manage this through dietary changes, medication, or both, 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. Richard Houston 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): 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.
- Electrocardiogram (EKG): If you experience chest pain or shortness of breath, an EKG helps your doctor quickly diagnose the cause, providing timely intervention to prevent serious complications and ensuring your safety.
- 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.
- Immunization Administration: Regular immunization updates ensure that seniors' immune systems are adequately prepared to fight infections, significantly contributing to their quality of life.
- Smoking Cessation Counseling: This counseling helps manage the physical and psychological challenges of quitting smoking, empowering seniors to live healthier, longer lives.
- Electrophysiological Study: This test helps your doctor assess the electrical activity of your heart or other organs, providing valuable information to personalize your care plan and ensure optimal management of your health condition.
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. Richard Houston 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 a tailored treatment plan, a senior was able to reduce the debilitating pain of benign chronic pain syndrome, allowing them to finally return to their beloved hobby of knitting.
- With guidance from a supportive internal medicine specialist, a senior couple felt significantly less dizzy and lightheaded, allowing them to confidently resume their weekly bridge club outings.
- Following a personalized plan with medication and lifestyle changes, a senior couple regained their energy and confidence to take daily walks in the park, a cherished activity they had to limit due to atherosclerosis symptoms.
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 Osteopathic Board of Internal Medicine (Internal Medicine)
Here are answers to some common questions about Internal Medicine care with Dr. Richard Houston:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Dr. Houston's practice is dedicated to the unique health needs of older adults. Internists are primary care doctors who specialize in adult medicine, making them uniquely qualified to manage the complex health issues frequently encountered as we age. They are skilled at managing chronic conditions and coordinating care with other specialists.
- Does Dr. Richard Houston have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Yes, Dr. Houston is an internist, specifically trained in adult medicine, and has extensive experience managing the health needs of older adults, including common conditions of later life.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Houston's practice strongly believes in a team approach to care. We welcome family members and caregivers to participate in appointments and care planning, with the patient's permission. Their involvement is invaluable for ensuring clear communication and support.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Richard Houston?
- To prepare for your appointment with Dr. Houston, 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?
- 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?
- Fall prevention is a key focus of our practice. We review medications for potential side effects, assess mobility, and recommend physical therapy or home safety evaluations to help reduce fall risks.
- What is the practice's approach to discussing memory concerns or cognitive changes?
- Dr. Houston and our team understand that memory concerns can be worrisome. We create a safe space to discuss these worries, offer initial cognitive screenings, and can coordinate referrals to specialists if needed to ensure appropriate evaluation and care.
8130 Lakewood Main St Ste 103
Lakewood Ranch FL 34202
Phone: (918) 289-7085
Dr. Richard Houston, DO 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): 1407207004
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. Richard Houston 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.