Dr. Scott Samera, DPM is a Podiatry specialist dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care for older adults (65 years and older) at his clinic in Lake City, FL. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). His practice focuses on the unique needs of seniors, addressing common foot and ankle problems, including diabetic foot care, arthritis, and mobility issues. He works collaboratively with your primary care physician and other specialists to prevent falls and maintain your overall health. Dr. Samera is currently accepting new patients, so please call (386) 758-3668 to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Samera, a podiatry specialist in Lake City, FL, brings over 15 years of experience in the medical field to his practice. He earned his medical degree from New York College Of Podiatric Medicine in 2006, followed by an internship at James A. Haley Va Medical Center and residency training in Podiatry Services at James A. Haley Veterans Administration Hospital, both crucial steps in his development as a provider specializing in the comprehensive medical care of older adults. He is affiliated with HCA Florida Lake City Hospital, and he is committed to providing a collaborative, evidence-based approach to patient care, ensuring that patients and their families feel heard and empowered throughout their healthcare journey. Dr. Samera's commitment to compassionate care, coupled with his extensive experience, makes him a valuable partner in your senior health journey. Dr. Samera provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Scott Samera is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Samera is a compassionate and dedicated partner in your senior's health journey, providing comprehensive podiatric care tailored to their unique needs. He expertly addresses common foot and ankle problems, including diabetic foot care and arthritis, working collaboratively with primary care physicians and other specialists to prevent falls and maintain overall well-being. His approach prioritizes the individual needs and goals of each senior patient, fostering a supportive and trusting environment.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Scott Samera can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- APCN Choice POS II
- Aetna
- Aetna HMO
- Ambetter
- AvMed
- Blue Card High Performance Network HPN
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Choice Large Group POS
- Choice Plus POS
- Choice Plus POS II
- Cigna
- Cigna PPO
- Elect Choice (Open Access) EPO
- Managed Choice (Open Access) POS
- Navigate HMO
- Navigate Plus POS
- Nexus Open Access
- Open Access Plus
- Open Choice PPO
- Premier Care Network Plus - Innovation Health
- Small Group Elect HMO
- Superior Health Plan
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Scott Samera 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:
- Hammer Toe: Managing hammer toe may involve wearing wider shoes, using toe pads for cushioning and support, or undergoing simple surgery to correct the deformity and improve walking ability.
- Foot and Ankle Injuries: Foot and ankle injuries, such as sprains or fractures, are common but treatable issues that can impact mobility and independence, so prompt medical attention can help you regain your activity level and reduce pain.
- Heel Spur: Heel spurs develop when calcium deposits form a bony projection on your heel, often leading to pain when walking; however, simple treatments like stretching and over-the-counter pain relief can make a big difference.
- Ankle Injury: An ankle injury, like a sprain or fracture, can cause pain and make walking difficult, but with proper treatment from a podiatrist, you can regain your mobility and enjoy your favorite activities again.
- Stress Fracture of Foot: Overuse or minor trauma can result in a tiny break in a foot bone, a stress fracture; with appropriate treatment, such as rest and supportive footwear, you can minimize pain and maintain your activity level.
- Ankle Fracture: An ankle fracture is a break in one or more of the bones in your ankle, often causing pain and making it difficult to walk, but with proper treatment, like casting or surgery, you can regain mobility and reduce pain.
- Posterior Tibial Tendonitis: This condition affects the tendon behind your ankle bone, causing arch pain and stiffness; treatment, which may include custom orthotics, aims to restore comfortable walking and prevent further complications.
- Onychomycosis: Onychomycosis, or toenail fungus, can be uncomfortable and unsightly, but thankfully, there are effective treatments available to clear the infection and improve your foot health.
- Fracture: Experiencing a broken bone (fracture) in your lower leg can be challenging, but with proper medical care like pain management and physical therapy, you can recover and maintain your independence.
- Ankle Impingement: Pain and swelling in your ankle could signify ankle impingement, which may affect your ability to walk or even stand, however, your podiatrist can recommend appropriate treatments to help you stay active and independent.
- Foot Fracture: A foot fracture is a break in one of the bones in your foot, which can be very painful but treatable with proper care, often helping you regain mobility and independence.
- Ingrown Toenail: An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling, often relieved with simple home care or a podiatrist's visit.
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. Scott Samera offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Achilles Tendon Rupture Repair: This surgery is a treatment option for seniors who experience a complete or partial rupture of their Achilles tendon, significantly improving lower limb function.
- Ankle Surgery: Surgical intervention on the ankle can be a key element in preventing further complications or disabilities associated with ankle problems for elderly patients.
- Bunion Surgery: Bunion surgery can be a crucial part of a senior's treatment plan, addressing the underlying cause of bunion pain and deformity which may impact balance and increase fall risk.
- Diabetic Foot Care: Diabetic foot care helps prevent serious foot problems like infections and ulcers by checking for early signs of nerve damage and poor circulation.
- Foot and Ankle Fracture and Dislocation Treatment: Treatment for foot and ankle fractures and dislocations helps seniors regain mobility and reduce pain after an injury.
- Foot and Ankle Surgery: Addressing severe foot and ankle problems through surgery can restore functionality and prevent further complications that hinder independent living.
- Foot Surgery: Surgery can help seniors regain the ability to walk more easily and safely by correcting structural problems or removing damaged tissues in the foot.
- Fracture and-or Dislocation Treatment: Proper fracture and dislocation treatment is crucial for preventing long-term complications and ensuring seniors can participate in their preferred activities.
- Fracture Care: Fracture care helps seniors heal broken bones in their feet and ankles, restoring mobility and reducing pain.
- Hammer Toe Repair: For seniors with hammertoes causing discomfort or mobility issues, this surgery provides a lasting solution to improve their quality of life.
- Ingrown Toenail Surgery: Surgery can effectively manage an ingrown toenail, thus lessening pain, avoiding potential mobility issues, and facilitating your participation in daily activities.
- Nail Avulsion and Excision: Nail avulsion and excision is a procedure to remove an ingrown toenail or a severely damaged nail, relieving pain and preventing infection, a common concern for 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 Podiatry Services in Florida.
Dr. Scott Samera 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 podiatrist's guidance, a senior was able to comfortably wear their favorite walking shoes again, enjoying their daily neighborhood strolls without pain. The family also felt relieved knowing their loved one was more mobile and secure at home.
- Following treatment for foot and ankle injuries, a senior was able to resume walking their dog in the park, a cherished daily ritual, and felt a significant reduction in pain.
- A senior woman found significant relief from heel spur pain, allowing her to resume her beloved daily walks with her dog, a cherished part of her routine. Her improved mobility and reduced discomfort brought a renewed sense of independence and joy.
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
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- HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital Port St. Lucie (Residency Hospital)
Here are answers to some common questions about Podiatric care with Dr. Scott Samera:
- What is a Podiatrist, and why is foot care so important for seniors?
- A podiatrist, like Dr. Samera, is a doctor specializing in the foot, ankle, and lower leg. Healthy feet are vital for seniors to maintain mobility, balance, and independence. Dr. Samera is an expert in managing age-related foot problems and preventing serious complications.
- I have diabetes. How often should I see a Podiatrist like Dr. Scott Samera?
- Regular foot exams are crucial for seniors with diabetes. Dr. Samera recommends a comprehensive exam at least annually to detect issues like neuropathy and poor circulation, which can prevent serious complications like ulcers and amputations.
- Does Medicare cover podiatry visits?
- Medicare Part B generally covers podiatric care for conditions like diabetic foot problems and bunions, but routine services like simple nail trimming are usually not covered unless they're related to a broader medical issue. Please contact our office for specific coverage details regarding your situation.
- What should I do for a painful ingrown toenail?
- Don't try to remove an ingrown toenail yourself. Dr. Samera can safely numb and treat the ingrown toenail in the office, providing immediate relief and preventing infection, especially important for seniors with diabetes or poor circulation.
- My feet are numb and tingling. Is that serious?
- Numbness and tingling in your feet are important symptoms that should be evaluated. This can be a sign of neuropathy, often related to diabetes or other nerve issues. A proper diagnosis is key to managing the condition and preventing complications.
- What are custom orthotics and how can they help?
- Custom orthotics are prescription medical devices worn inside your shoes. They are made from a precise mold of your feet to correct biomechanical issues, provide support, and relieve pain from conditions like flat feet, plantar fasciitis, or arthritis.
- How can Dr. Scott Samera help prevent falls?
- Dr. Samera understands the crucial link between foot health and stability. He can assess balance, treat painful conditions that affect steadiness, and recommend appropriate, stable footwear and orthotics to help reduce your risk of falls.
- What is hammertoe, and does it require surgery?
- Hammertoe is a bending or contracture of the smaller toes. In early stages, it can often be managed with roomier shoes and orthotics. Surgery is only considered when the toe becomes rigid and painful, causing difficulty with footwear.
404 NW Hall of Fame Dr
Lake City FL 32055
Phone: (386) 758-3668
Dr. Scott Samera, DPM 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): 1508145905
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. Podiatry Services like Dr. Scott Samera 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.