Dr. Rima Bakhda, MD, Internist

Dr. Rima Bakhda, MD

Internist in Port St. Joe, FL

(4 reviews)

Dr. Rima Bakhda, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults. He practices at Florida Behavioral Medicine - Largo in Largo, FL, and is registered with The Florida... Read More Below

Accepting New Patients Board Certified
Professional Details

Dr. Rima Bakhda, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults. He practices at Florida Behavioral Medicine - Largo in Largo, FL, and is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine, 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 includes younger adults with complex medical needs. Dr. Bakhda is currently welcoming new patients; please call (727) 518-6444 to schedule an appointment.

Dr. Rima Bakhda, MD is an internist in Largo, FL, affiliated with HCA Florida Largo Hospital. He is accepting new patients. Dr. Bakhda earned his medical degree from Sind Medical College and completed residency training in Internal Medicine at Finch University Of Health Sciences/Chicago Medical School, specializing in the comprehensive medical care of older adults. He further specialized with fellowship training in University Of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, deepening his expertise in a specific area of patient health. He is Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Dr. Bakhda is committed to collaborative, evidence-based medicine and creates a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. Dr. Bakhda provides consultations primarily in English.

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

Dr. Bakhda acts as 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 well-being as you age. Her approach emphasizes a holistic view of your health, ensuring your comfort and quality of life.

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

Specific Plans Accepted

Aetna
    Cigna
      Curative

        Also Accepts These Carriers

        • Choice Plus
        • Choice Plus POS II (POS II)
        • Cigna PPO (PPO)
        • 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)
        • Open Access Plus
        • UnitedHealthCare

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

        • Nausea: Nausea is a common symptom with many possible causes, and finding the source is key to effective treatment and getting you back on your feet.
        • Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism, can make you feel sluggish and affect your overall health, but with the right medication and care, you can effectively manage your symptoms and feel healthier.
        • Urinary Incontinence: Urinary incontinence is the unintentional leakage of urine, a common but treatable problem that can be managed with lifestyle changes, medication, or other therapies to help maintain dignity and independence.
        • Asthma: Asthma is a chronic condition affecting your breathing, but with a well-managed treatment plan, including medication and lifestyle adjustments, you can prevent flare-ups and maintain your independence.
        • Diabetic Polyneuropathy: Living with diabetes increases your risk for diabetic polyneuropathy, a type of nerve damage causing painful sensations like tingling, burning, or numbness. Careful monitoring of blood sugar, medication as prescribed, and regular checkups are essential to minimize discomfort and protect your overall health.
        • Heart Disease: Heart disease encompasses various conditions affecting the heart's ability to pump blood efficiently, and managing it often involves lifestyle changes, medications, and regular check-ups to maintain your heart health and energy levels.
        • Overweight: Overweight is when your body mass index (BMI) is higher than recommended, potentially putting you at risk for various health complications, however, with the help of your doctor, a gradual weight loss plan tailored to your needs can reduce those risks and promote better health.
        • Leg and Foot Ulcers: Leg and foot ulcers are open sores that can be painful and slow to heal, often impacting mobility and daily life, but with proper care and treatment, healing is possible and can restore comfort and independence.
        • Shortness of Breath: Shortness of breath, or dyspnea, can make everyday activities feel harder, but understanding its cause and working with your doctor can often ease your breathing and improve your comfort.
        • 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.
        • Acute Bronchitis: Acute bronchitis is a short-term inflammation of the bronchial tubes, resulting in a cough; your doctor can help manage your symptoms to reduce discomfort and prevent complications, keeping you healthy and active.
        • Enteritis: If you're struggling with diarrhea, vomiting, or abdominal pain, enteritis could be a possibility. Prompt medical attention can help determine the cause and ensure you receive the appropriate care to feel better quickly.

        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. Rima Bakhda offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:

        • 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 helps diagnose and manage the interaction of multiple chronic conditions, reducing the risk of adverse events and improving overall wellness.
        • 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.
        • Immunization Administration: Immunization administration is a crucial preventive care step to protect seniors from vaccine-preventable diseases, helping them maintain their health and independence.
        • Smoking Cessation Counseling: As part of a comprehensive care plan, smoking cessation counseling supports seniors in overcoming nicotine addiction and reducing their risk of serious health problems.
        • Transfusion: Receiving a blood transfusion can help manage severe anemia, a common condition in older adults that causes fatigue and weakness.
        • Splinting: Splints can be a part of a comprehensive care plan for seniors, providing temporary support while a more permanent solution is sought.

        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. Rima Bakhda 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 the persistent nausea finally addressed, a senior couple was able to enjoy their weekly dinner outings with friends again, a cherished social activity.
        • With medication and regular check-ups, a senior was able to regain energy and motivation, returning to their beloved volunteer work at the local animal shelter.
        • With guidance from a knowledgeable professional, a senior felt more secure at home and confident in resuming social activities, no longer hampered by urinary incontinence. A family rejoiced in their loved one's improved quality of life, free from the worry and disruption that incontinence had caused.

        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
        Education History
        • HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital Port St. Lucie (Residency Hospital)
        Board Certifications
        • American Board of Internal Medicine (Internal Medicine)

        Here are answers to some common questions about Internal Medicine care with Dr. Rima Bakhda:

        What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
        Internists, like Dr. Bakhda, are primary care doctors who specialize in adult health. They are experts in the many health concerns that can occur as we age, including managing chronic conditions and coordinating care with other specialists.
        Does Dr. Rima Bakhda have experience treating older adults or seniors?
        Dr. Bakhda is an internist, specializing in adult medicine, and has extensive experience caring for the unique health needs of older adults. She is knowledgeable about the conditions frequently encountered in later life and is well-equipped to provide comprehensive care.
        Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
        Dr. Bakhda 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 involvement is invaluable for clear communication and support.
        What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Rima Bakhda?
        To prepare for your appointment with Dr. Bakhda, 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 have written down.
        How do I request a prescription refill?
        The easiest way to request a prescription refill is through our patient portal or by calling 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?
        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.
        How does Dr. Rima Bakhda approach managing type 2 diabetes?
        Dr. Bakhda's approach to type 2 diabetes management is comprehensive, focusing on medication management tailored to individual needs, regular blood sugar monitoring, and crucial lifestyle counseling encompassing diet, exercise, and foot care. This empowers patients to actively participate in their health and achieve optimal outcomes.
        How does your practice support patients with multiple chronic conditions?
        Dr. Bakhda's practice is designed to be a central hub for your care, coordinating with specialists to create a unified plan. We carefully manage medications to avoid conflicts and ensure your treatment is comprehensive and effective. This approach simplifies your healthcare experience and improves your overall well-being.

        Florida Behavioral Medicine - Largo
        1100 Clearwater Largo Rd N
        Largo FL 33770
        Phone: (727) 518-6444

        Dr. Rima Bakhda, 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): 1750793444

        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. Rima Bakhda 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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