Dr. Sarah Pursley, MD is a Family Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at her clinic in Fort Walton Beach, FL. She is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). As a partner in senior health, Dr. Pursley understands that 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 serves adults, with a focus on those aging into and throughout their senior years. Please call (850) 862-1111 to confirm if she is currently accepting new patients.
Dr. Sarah Pursley, MD is a family medicine physician in Fort Walton Beach, FL. She is affiliated with medical facilities HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital and Baptist Hospital. She earned her medical degree from Ross University School Of Medicine and is Board Certified in Family Practice by the American Board of Family Medicine. Dr. Pursley is committed to collaborative, evidence-based medicine, creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. She strives to provide the best possible care, and while her primary consultation language is English, she is dedicated to her patients' needs.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Sarah Pursley is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Sarah Pursley is a compassionate and dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive family medicine care. She prioritizes understanding each patient's unique needs and goals, coordinating complex care, and managing chronic conditions to maintain your overall well-being and independence. Her approach emphasizes a holistic view of health, ensuring you receive the best possible support and care throughout your senior years.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Sarah Pursley can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Blue Advantage PPO
- Blue Card High Performance Network HPN
- Blue Choice
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma
- Blue Preferred PPO
- BlueCard PPO
- BlueLincs HMO
- BlueOptions PPO
- CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
- HealthyBlue Advantage
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Sarah Pursley 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:
- Allergic Rhinitis: Dealing with seasonal allergies like allergic rhinitis can be frustrating, but with the right medication and strategies, you can effectively manage symptoms and maintain your independence and enjoyable activities.
- Diabetes Type 2: Type 2 diabetes affects how your body processes sugar, but with regular check-ups, a balanced diet, and an active lifestyle, you can successfully control your blood sugar, preventing long-term health issues and preserving your quality of life.
- Leukocytopenia: Leukocytopenia means your body doesn't have enough infection-fighting cells, but working with your doctor to identify the cause and find the right treatment can maintain your independence and improve your overall well-being.
- Tobacco Use Disorder: Many older adults find it challenging to quit smoking, and tobacco use disorder is a common reason for this struggle; however, there are effective treatments and support programs to help.
- 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.
- Malaise and Fatigue: Feeling unwell and tired can be a sign of various underlying health issues, and addressing these issues with your doctor can help you feel better and maintain your independence.
- All Headaches (incl. Migraine): Migraines and other headaches can be debilitating, but with proper diagnosis and treatment, you can regain a sense of normalcy and independence.
- Anal or Rectal Pain: Anal or rectal pain can be a distressing symptom, but many treatments are available to ease discomfort and improve your daily life.
- Long COVID Disorder: Long COVID can affect many aspects of daily life, but with personalized care and treatment plans, we can work to reduce symptoms and help you continue enjoying your favorite activities.
- Low Back Pain: Low back pain is a common problem that can make everyday tasks difficult, but with the right care, including gentle exercise and pain management strategies, you can regain comfort and mobility.
- Foot Infection: Untreated, even small foot infections can lead to more serious health problems, so prompt care from a doctor is important to help maintain your overall health and wellbeing.
- Muscle Weakness: Muscle weakness, a common experience with aging, can be managed through gentle exercise, a balanced diet, and sometimes medication, helping you maintain your independence and enjoy your daily activities.
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. Sarah Pursley offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): An arterial blood gas (ABG) test is a simple blood draw that helps your doctor assess how well your lungs are delivering oxygen to your blood and removing carbon dioxide, crucial for managing chronic lung conditions as you age.
- Electrocardiogram (EKG): An electrocardiogram (EKG) is a simple test that measures your heart's electrical activity, helping your doctor detect any irregularities or problems like an irregular heartbeat.
- Human Papillomavirus DNA Testing: This test helps your doctor assess your risk for HPV-related cancers and guide decisions about appropriate monitoring or treatment strategies.
- Smoking Cessation Counseling: For seniors looking to improve their long-term health, counseling offers personalized guidance and support to overcome nicotine dependence and its associated health problems.
- Kidney Transplant Evaluation: The kidney transplant evaluation is a crucial step in creating a personalized care plan to address your kidney failure, considering your overall health and lifestyle.
- Pain Medication Management: Working with your doctor to manage your pain medication ensures you receive the most effective treatment and reduces the risks associated with long-term use.
- Acne Treatment: Treating acne may involve a discussion with your physician about underlying skin conditions or medications, contributing to a holistic approach to your care.
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. Sarah Pursley 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 struggling with bothersome seasonal allergies, a senior couple found relief with personalized treatment plans. They were able to enjoy their evening walks again without the constant sneezing and congestion.
- After diligently following a personalized care plan, a senior couple felt more confident and secure in their home, no longer worrying about the daily challenges of managing their Type 2 diabetes.
- With the guidance of a caring medical professional, a senior couple found relief from the fatigue associated with leukocytopenia, enabling them to enjoy their favorite weekly bridge game once more.
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 Board of Family Medicine (Family Practice)
Here are answers to some common questions about Family Medicine care with Dr. Sarah Pursley:
- How is a Family Physician suited to care for seniors?
- Dr. Pursley and her team are uniquely positioned to care for seniors because family physicians often care for patients throughout their lives, gaining a deep understanding of their health histories. They are experts in managing chronic conditions and coordinating all aspects of a senior's care, making them a trusted primary care partner.
- What happens during an annual wellness visit for a senior?
- During your annual wellness visit with Dr. Pursley, we'll review your medications, perform a physical exam, and check your memory and mobility. We'll also discuss personalized preventive screenings like bone density or cancer tests, and partner with you to set 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. Pursley, please write down your top health questions. Bring a complete list of all medications, including over-the-counter items. Be prepared to discuss any new symptoms, no matter how minor they 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.
- Do you perform minor skin procedures, like removing a skin tag or mole?
- Dr. Pursley and our staff can perform many common skin procedures, such as removing skin tags or suspicious moles for biopsy, or freezing pre-cancerous spots (actinic keratosis) right here in the office. This saves you time and travel, making it convenient for seniors.
- How does Dr. Sarah Pursley approach mental health concerns like anxiety or depression in seniors?
- Dr. Pursley understands that mental well-being is essential for seniors. She creates a supportive environment for discussing concerns like anxiety or depression, performs initial assessments, manages related medications, and coordinates care with specialists when necessary.
- Can you help manage joint pain from arthritis?
- Yes, Dr. Pursley and her team can help manage joint pain from arthritis. Family physicians are often the first point of contact for arthritis management, and treatment can include advice on safe exercises, anti-inflammatory medications, and sometimes joint injections to improve mobility and reduce pain.
- How do you handle referrals to specialists like a cardiologist or an orthopedist?
- Dr. Pursley acts as the quarterback of your healthcare team. When a specialist is needed, she will make the referral and then coordinate care to ensure all treatments are seamlessly integrated. This helps to avoid any gaps in your care.
1000 Mar Walt Dr
Fort Walton Beach FL 32547
Phone: (850) 862-1111
Dr. Sarah Pursley, 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): 1942735576
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. Sarah Pursley 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.