Dr. Sisto Serafini, DO is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults. He practices at Sisto Serafini DO in Weeki Wachee, FL, and is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine, practicing under 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. Sisto Serafini is currently welcoming new patients and encourages you to call (352) 632-6159 to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Serafini's extensive experience in Internal Medicine stems from his commitment to delivering exceptional care. He earned his medical degree from the University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences in 1993 and completed his internship at Hahnemann University Hospital. He then pursued residency training in Internal Medicine at Allegheny General Hospital, followed by fellowship training at the University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, specializing in the comprehensive medical care of his patient population. With over 30 years of dedicated experience, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. He is Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Osteopathic Board of Internal Medicine and is fluent in Italian, offering consultations in Spanish as well. Dr. Serafini received his DO from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, and completed an internship at Nassau University Medical Center and a residency in Internal Medicine at HCA Florida Largo Hospital. This deep understanding of the complexities of aging allows him to provide the personalized, supportive care needed to address the unique needs of older adults.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Sisto Serafini is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Serafini acts as a compassionate and dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care. He meticulously coordinates complex care, effectively manages chronic conditions, and prioritizes your overall well-being and independence. His approach emphasizes understanding your individual needs and goals, working collaboratively with you and your family to create a personalized plan that maximizes your comfort and quality of life as you age.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Sisto Serafini can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Buckeye Community Health Plan
- Gold Plus
- Health Net
- Humana
- Humana Choice Medicare Advantage PPO (PPO)
- Medicare
- Medicare Advantage
- Tricare
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Sisto Serafini 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:
- Candidiasis of Skin and Nails: Candidiasis, a type of yeast infection, can cause skin and nail problems but is easily managed with medication prescribed by your doctor, leading to better skin health and reduced discomfort.
- Shortness of Breath: Feeling breathless can be frightening, but it's a common symptom with various treatable causes, so talking to your doctor is crucial for finding the right support and management.
- Mild Asthma: With mild asthma, you may experience occasional bouts of coughing or shortness of breath, however, a simple treatment plan, including medication and lifestyle adjustments, can help you live comfortably and actively.
- Pharyngitis: Managing a sore throat (pharyngitis) effectively can help maintain your daily routine and independence by easing discomfort and allowing you to eat and drink more easily.
- Tobacco Use Disorder: If you or a loved one struggles with tobacco use, know that effective treatments and support groups are available to help overcome nicotine addiction, leading to a healthier, more fulfilling life.
- Constipation: If constipation is persistent or severe, consulting your doctor can lead to a personalized plan to relieve symptoms and prevent complications, enhancing your daily life.
- Osteoarthritis: While osteoarthritis's joint pain and reduced mobility can be concerning, effective management with your healthcare team, including pain relievers and therapies, allows you to maintain your daily routines and enjoy an active lifestyle.
- 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.
- Shingles: If you've had chickenpox, you can develop shingles later in life; thankfully, there are vaccines and medications that can prevent or lessen its impact on your comfort and daily activities.
- Chronic Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Living with chronic DVT involves working closely with your doctor to manage blood clots in your leg veins through medication and lifestyle changes to help you stay active and comfortable.
- Sciatica: Sciatica is pain that radiates down your leg from your lower back, often caused by a pinched nerve, and managing it with gentle exercise, over-the-counter pain relievers, and physical therapy can significantly reduce discomfort and maintain your mobility.
- Gastroptosis: Gastroptosis, or a dropped stomach, can sometimes cause problems with digestion, but with simple adjustments to diet and exercise, many seniors can effectively manage their symptoms and maintain their active lifestyles.
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. Sisto Serafini offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Abscess or Fluid Incision and Drainage: As part of a comprehensive approach to your health, incision and drainage can treat an infection, relieving symptoms and preventing further complications.
- Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): This simple blood test helps assess your blood's acid-base balance, crucial for managing conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
- Bone Density Scan: As part of your comprehensive health assessment, a bone density scan helps detect early signs of bone loss and allows for timely management of any risks.
- 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): An EKG is a vital tool in monitoring the effectiveness of your heart medication and adjusting your treatment plan as needed, optimizing your heart health and overall quality of life.
- Immunization Administration: Regular immunization updates ensure that seniors' immune systems are adequately prepared to fight infections, significantly contributing to their quality of life.
- Obesity Counseling: Obesity counseling helps seniors understand their weight and develop a personalized plan to achieve and maintain a healthy weight, improving overall health.
- Pap Smear: As part of your comprehensive health plan, a Pap smear helps your doctor monitor the health of your cervix and guide decisions about future care.
- Physical Examination: A physical examination is a hands-on assessment by your doctor to check your overall health, helping identify any potential health problems early.
- X-Ray: As part of your overall health assessment, an X-ray can provide crucial information to help your doctor create a comprehensive care plan tailored to your specific needs.
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. Sisto Serafini 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 yeast infection effectively treated, a senior couple could finally enjoy relaxing evenings together without the discomfort of itching and irritated skin.
- Feeling less breathless, a senior was able to rejoin her book club, reconnecting with friends and enjoying stimulating conversations once again.
- After working with a knowledgeable internal medicine physician, a senior couple found relief from their occasional bouts of shortness of breath and coughing, allowing them to enjoy their daily walks in the park without discomfort.
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. Sisto Serafini:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Dr. Serafini and other internists are primary care doctors who specialize in treating adults. They are experts in the many health issues that can occur as people age, including managing chronic diseases and coordinating care with other specialists.
- Does Dr. Sisto Serafini have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Dr. Serafini is an internist, meaning he specializes in adult medicine and has extensive experience managing the health needs of older adults. He is well-versed in conditions common in later life, providing comprehensive care for seniors.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Serafini and our team 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. Sisto Serafini?
- To prepare for your first appointment with Dr. Serafini, 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 calling your pharmacy directly. Please allow 2-3 business days for requests to be processed.
- 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 do you coordinate care with specialists like cardiologists or oncologists?
- Dr. Serafini and his team work closely with specialists like cardiologists and oncologists. We handle referrals, share your medical information, and synthesize recommendations to create a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your needs. This ensures all your care is coordinated and integrated.
- What is your approach to medication management, especially for patients taking many prescriptions (polypharmacy)?
- Dr. Serafini and our team take medication management very seriously for our patients. We conduct regular reviews to check for interactions, eliminate unnecessary medications, and ensure your medication plan is safe and effective.
Sisto Serafini DO
8246 River Country Dr
Weeki Wachee FL 34607
Phone: (352) 632-6159
Dr. Sisto Serafini, 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): 1366674046
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. Sisto Serafini 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.