Dr. Salma Akhter, DO is a Family Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at her clinic in Tampa, FL. Registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), she understands the unique health needs of adults, with a particular focus on those aging into and throughout their senior years. Your family doctor is your primary partner in managing your health throughout your senior years, coordinating complex care, managing chronic conditions, and focusing on your overall well-being and independence to help you thrive. She is committed to a collaborative, evidence-based approach to medicine, creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. Dr. Salma Akhter is not currently accepting new patients, but you can call (813) 533-3494 to inquire about waitlists or future openings.
Dr. Salma Akhter, DO is a family medicine physician in Tampa, FL, with over 20 years of experience in the medical field. A graduate of Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2000, she completed an internship at Welling, gaining foundational clinical experience. Dr. Akhter is Board Certified in Family Practice/OMT by the American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians, and is affiliated with St. Joseph's Hospital. With over 20 years of dedicated experience in Family Medicine care, she brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to her patients and their families. She offers consultations in Spanish, further enhancing her commitment to accessible care for her diverse patient population. Please note that Dr. Salma Akhter is not currently accepting new patients.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Salma Akhter is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Salma Akhter is a compassionate partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive family medicine care. She prioritizes understanding your unique needs and goals, coordinating complex care seamlessly, and managing chronic conditions effectively. Her focus is on maintaining your overall well-being and independence, ensuring a high quality of life for you and your family.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Salma Akhter can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Blue Card High Performance Network HPN
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Choice Care Network PPO
- Choice Care PPO
- Choice POS
- Cigna
- Cigna PPO
- HMO Premier HMO
- Humana
- Open Access Plus
- Preferred PPO
- Select HMO
- Tampa Bay HUMx HMOx
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Salma Akhter 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:
- Acidosis: Acidosis is a condition where there's too much acid in your blood, and managing it often involves addressing the underlying cause, such as diet changes or medication adjustments, to help you feel better and stay active.
- Arthritis: Arthritis involves inflammation in the joints, leading to discomfort and reduced movement; treatment focuses on pain relief and preserving your ability to perform daily tasks.
- Chronic Pain: Living with chronic pain doesn't mean you have to live with constant suffering; effective pain management strategies can help you participate in activities you enjoy and preserve your mobility.
- Nausea: Experiencing nausea can be upsetting, but understanding its causes and using effective management strategies can help you feel more comfortable and maintain your daily routines.
- Hypertension: High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a common condition where the force of blood against your artery walls is consistently too high, and managing it with medication and lifestyle changes can help protect your heart and keep you feeling your best.
- Injuries: Even seemingly minor injuries can have lasting effects on older adults; therefore, seeking prompt medical attention can help prevent long-term problems and ensure the best possible outcome.
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs): Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infections passed through sexual contact, and while less common in older adults, they can still occur and are treatable with antibiotics or antiviral medications, improving overall health and well-being.
- Migraine: Migraines are severe headaches that can cause throbbing pain, often on one side of the head, along with nausea and sensitivity to light and sound, and managing them effectively can significantly improve your daily life.
- All Headaches (incl. Migraine): Headaches are a common concern as we age, but help is available. Regular checkups and open communication with your doctor are key to finding relief and maintaining your health.
- Fibromyalgia: Fibromyalgia is characterized by chronic pain, fatigue, and other symptoms that can significantly impact daily activities; however, a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes can greatly improve the quality of life for seniors.
- Osteoporosis: Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens your bones, making them more fragile and prone to fractures, but with proper management, you can maintain your strength and independence.
- Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): UTIs, infections of the urinary system, can lead to painful urination and other symptoms, but antibiotics usually clear them up effectively, helping you stay comfortable and 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. Salma Akhter offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Cholesterol Screening: Monitoring your cholesterol levels through regular screenings helps ensure early detection and management of high cholesterol, contributing to a longer, healthier life.
- Trichomoniasis Screening: This screening helps ensure early detection and management of trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted infection that can lead to more serious health issues if left untreated.
- Disability Evaluation: Disability evaluations help tailor your treatment and care plan, making sure you have the right support to address your specific needs and maintain your well-being.
- Breast Cancer Screening: Breast cancer screening helps detect breast cancer early, when treatment is most effective, improving your chances of a positive outcome.
- Mammography: Regular mammograms are a crucial part of preventive care for women, allowing for early detection and improved treatment outcomes.
- Patch Testing: Patch testing plays a key role in diagnosing allergic contact dermatitis, aiding your physician in developing a comprehensive management plan to reduce discomfort and prevent future flare-ups.
- Prostate Cancer Screening: Regular prostate cancer screenings are a crucial part of preventive care for older men, enabling early detection and management of this common cancer.
- Diabetes Screening: Regular diabetes screenings are a crucial part of a senior's comprehensive healthcare plan, helping to detect and manage this common condition effectively.
- Pelvic Exams: Pelvic exams are a vital part of preventive care, allowing early detection of conditions that can significantly impact your well-being as you age.
- Dementia or Depression Screening: By detecting dementia or depression early through screening, doctors can develop a personalized care plan to manage symptoms and support independence.
- Mole Removal: Mole removal helps your doctor assess any suspicious skin changes and ensure early detection of potential skin cancer as part of your ongoing health plan.
- Sexually Transmitted Infections Screening: Regular STI testing is a crucial part of comprehensive healthcare, allowing for early diagnosis and treatment of any infections, thus safeguarding your overall health.
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 Family Medicine in Florida.
Dr. Salma Akhter 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 careful dietary adjustments and medication management, the senior couple found relief from the persistent fatigue associated with acidosis, and rediscovered the joy of their daily walks in the park.
- With arthritis better managed, a senior couple rediscovered the joy of dancing, enjoying their weekly ballroom lessons without the usual pain and stiffness.
- With a tailored pain management plan, a senior couple found significant relief from persistent back pain, allowing them to enjoy their weekly dance class again.
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
- HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital Port St. Lucie (Residency Hospital)
- American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians (Family Practice/OMT)
Here are answers to some common questions about Family Medicine care with Dr. Salma Akhter:
- How is a Family Physician suited to care for seniors?
- Dr. Akhter and her team are uniquely positioned to care for seniors because they often care for patients throughout their entire lives. This allows for a deep understanding of individual health histories, and they are experts in managing chronic conditions and coordinating all aspects of a senior's care. They are trusted primary care partners.
- What happens during an annual wellness visit for a senior?
- During your annual wellness visit with Dr. Akhter, we'll review your medications, conduct a physical exam, and assess your memory and mobility. We'll also discuss personalized preventive screenings, like bone density or cancer checks, tailored to your individual health needs. This is a key opportunity to partner with Dr. Akhter on achieving your health goals.
- How should I prepare for my appointment to make the most of our time?
- To make the most of your appointment with Dr. Akhter, please write down your top health questions beforehand. Bring a complete list of all your medications, including over-the-counter items. Finally, be prepared to discuss any new symptoms, no matter how minor they may seem.
- Can family members or caregivers be involved in my care?
- Absolutely. With your permission, we encourage family members and caregivers to be involved in your care. This team approach helps ensure clear communication and provides the best possible support for your health.
- Can I come in for urgent issues like a fall, a bad cold, or a UTI?
- Yes, you can come in for urgent issues like a fall, cold, or UTI. Seeing Dr. Akhter for these acute illnesses is ideal because she knows your health history and medications. Our practice can treat common ailments, helping you avoid unnecessary trips to urgent care.
- What is the practice's approach to fall prevention?
- Fall prevention is a top priority for our practice. Dr. Akhter can conduct a fall risk assessment, review medications that may cause dizziness, and recommend physical therapy or home safety evaluations to help seniors stay safe and independent.
- How do you help with managing multiple medications?
- Dr. Akhter's practice partners with patients to safely manage multiple medications. Regular reviews ensure proper dosages, check for interactions, simplify regimens, and confirm each medication's continued necessity and effectiveness.
- How does Dr. Salma Akhter approach mental health concerns like anxiety or depression in seniors?
- Dr. Akhter understands that mental well-being is essential for seniors. She creates a supportive environment to discuss concerns, performs initial assessments, manages related medications, and coordinates care with specialists as needed.
17512 Dona Michelle Dr Ste 5
Tampa FL 33647
Phone: (813) 533-3494
Dr. Salma Akhter, 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): 1780640078
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. Family Medicine like Dr. Salma Akhter 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.