Dr. Srisha Rao, MD is a Cardiology specialist dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive cardiovascular care for older adults. She practices at the Cardiovascular Institute of Central Florida in Ocala, Florida, and is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine, practicing under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). General cardiologists provide expert diagnosis and management of complex heart conditions common in older adults, working collaboratively with your primary care physician and other specialists to ensure comprehensive, personalized care. Dr. Rao specifically serves patients 65 years and older, and is currently welcoming new patients. Please call (352) 520-2684 to schedule an appointment.
A seasoned physician with 30 years of experience, Dr. Srisha Rao, MD, is a 53-year-old cardiology doctor practicing in Ocala, FL. She is affiliated with Seven Rivers Regional Medical Center, Munroe Regional Medical Center, and HCA Florida Citrus Hospital. Dr. Rao earned her medical degree from Gandhi Medical College and completed residency training in Cardiology at Catholic Medical Center Of Brooklyn And Queens, specializing in the comprehensive medical care of older adults. Further specializing in a specific area of patient health, she pursued fellowship training at Catholic Medical Center Of Brooklyn And Queens. Dr. Rao is Board Certified in Cardiovascular Disease by the American Board of Internal Medicine. She is committed to collaborative, evidence-based medicine, creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. Dr. Srisha Rao provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Srisha Rao is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Srisha Rao is a compassionate partner in your senior's health journey, offering comprehensive cardiovascular care tailored to individual needs. She collaborates closely with primary care physicians and specialists to provide expert diagnosis and management of heart conditions, ensuring personalized treatment plans that prioritize the well-being and comfort of older adults.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Srisha Rao can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Curative
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Curative EPO
- Curative PPO
- Curative PPO Plus
- Health Net
- Tricare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Srisha Rao 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:
- Hypertensive Heart without Failure: With hypertensive heart disease (without failure), your high blood pressure is stressing your heart, but with proper management, like medication and lifestyle changes, you can keep your heart healthy and maintain your independence.
- Aortic Ectasia: Aortic ectasia is a widening of the aorta, the body's largest artery, which can be monitored and managed to prevent complications and maintain your overall health.
- Acute Endocarditis: Dealing with an acute endocarditis infection can be challenging, but with proper antibiotic treatment and medical support, you can manage the infection effectively, minimizing its impact on your daily life and maintaining your well-being.
- Pericardial Disease: Managing pericardial disease, an issue affecting the sac surrounding your heart, typically involves addressing pain and fluid buildup, which can dramatically improve your quality of life and allow you to remain as active as possible.
- Cardiomegaly: If you've been diagnosed with cardiomegaly, it's important to work with your doctor to find the best treatment plan, as this can significantly improve your heart health and overall well-being.
- Aortic Dissection: Aortic dissection involves a split or tear in the wall of the aorta, requiring immediate medical care to prevent severe consequences. Effective management through medication and/or surgery can help reduce symptoms and improve your overall well-being.
- Aortic Aneurysm: Treatment for an aortic aneurysm aims to reduce the risk of it rupturing, allowing you to maintain your independence and enjoy your life to the fullest.
- Atherosclerosis: Think of atherosclerosis as a slow clogging of your arteries; it's a common condition, especially as we age, that can be treated with medications and healthy habits to maintain your independence and enjoy life.
- Nonrheumatic Tricuspid Disease: A problem with the tricuspid valve in your heart, not related to rheumatic fever, might lead to fluid buildup or fatigue. Thankfully, many treatments such as medication or surgery, are available to help you live a fuller life.
- Sick Sinus Syndrome: Your heart's natural rhythm can be disrupted by sick sinus syndrome, resulting in symptoms like tiredness and fainting; a pacemaker or medication can help regulate your heartbeat, allowing you to enjoy more energy and participate in activities you love.
- Septal Defect: While some septal defects are discovered incidentally and need no treatment, others may lead to tiredness or breathlessness; thankfully, effective treatments are available to help manage these symptoms and maintain your independence.
- Aneurysm of Heart: A heart aneurysm is a balloon-like swelling in a heart artery, and while it might not always have symptoms, treatment can prevent it from growing and protect your heart health.
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. Srisha Rao offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- HeartAware Online Risk Screening: HeartAware helps you understand your heart health status by using a simple online questionnaire, assisting in conversations with your cardiologist about preventive care.
- Nuclear Stress Testing: This test uses a small amount of radioactive material to create images of your heart, helping your doctor diagnose potential blockages in your arteries.
- Cardiovascular Stress Test: This non-invasive procedure helps identify potential heart risks before they cause major problems, contributing to a comprehensive strategy for maintaining your overall well-being.
- Dobutamine Thallium Stress Test: This test helps diagnose coronary artery disease and other heart conditions by showing how well your heart receives blood flow under stress, informing your treatment strategy.
- Cardiac Catheterization with Robotic Assist: By using robotic assistance during cardiac catheterization, your doctor can gain a clearer picture of your hearts health, leading to more informed decisions about preventing future heart problems.
- Cardiac Myocardial Perfusion Imaging: This test helps your doctor understand if you have areas of your heart muscle that aren't getting enough blood, which is crucial information for deciding on the right medication or procedures.
- Cardioversion: For seniors experiencing a rapid or irregular heartbeat, cardioversion can help restore a safe and steady rhythm, supporting a better quality of life.
- Electrocardiogram (EKG): For proactive heart disease management, an EKG allows your physician to monitor your heart's electrical activity, offering insights into your heart's condition and preventing serious complications.
- Tilt Table Testing: If you experience fainting or lightheadedness, tilt table testing helps diagnose the cause, so you and your doctor can develop the best treatment strategy.
- Cardiac Catheterization (incl. Coronary Angiography): Cardiac catheterization, including coronary angiography, is a procedure that uses a thin tube and dye to visualize your heart's blood vessels, helping doctors identify blockages or narrowing that may be causing chest pain or shortness of breath.
- Cardiac Imaging: To monitor the effectiveness of your heart treatment, your doctor may use cardiac imaging to track any changes in your hearts condition and make adjustments to your care plan, helping you stay healthy.
- Cardiovascular Diagnostic Test: By evaluating your cardiovascular system, these diagnostic tools help doctors assess your risk for heart disease and stroke, enabling preventive measures to keep your heart strong.
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 Cardiology in Florida.
Dr. Srisha Rao 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 medication and lifestyle adjustments, a senior couple felt more secure at home, able to enjoy their evening strolls without the prior shortness of breath.
- With careful monitoring and management of their aortic ectasia, a senior couple felt more secure in their home environment, enjoying their daily walks and visits with grandchildren without worry.
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 Internal Medicine (Cardiovascular Disease)
Here are answers to some common questions about Cardiovascular care with Dr. Srisha Rao:
- What is a Cardiologist, and why might a senior need to see one?
- Dr. Srisha Rao and her practice specialize in heart and blood vessel care. A cardiologist partners with you to manage your heart health, especially important for seniors with existing conditions, new symptoms, or risk factors. This partnership helps maintain your independence and quality of life.
- What can I expect during my first visit with Dr. Srisha Rao?
- Your first visit with Dr. Rao will involve a comprehensive review of your medical history, medications, and a physical exam, including an EKG. We'll have a thorough and unhurried conversation about your heart health goals, and this visit is the first step in creating a personalized care plan that respects your needs.
- What are the most important heart health tips for seniors?
- Dr. Rao's practice emphasizes heart health through lifestyle choices. Prioritizing regular, gentle exercise, like walking, is key. Adhering to prescribed medications and a low-sodium diet are crucial, and recognizing warning signs like chest pain or shortness of breath empowers seniors to seek prompt medical attention.
- What is an echocardiogram?
- An echocardiogram, or "echo," is a painless ultrasound of the heart, similar to those used during pregnancy. Sound waves create moving pictures of the heart, helping your doctor evaluate its pumping strength and valve function.
- My heart valve is leaking. Does that require surgery?
- Dr. Rao will closely monitor your heart valve with regular echocardiograms. Many people live full lives with mild or moderate valve leakage, and surgery is only considered if the problem worsens. We will work together to create a plan that's best for you.
- How can cardiac rehabilitation help me after a heart procedure?
- Cardiac rehabilitation is a supervised program designed to help you safely regain strength and confidence after a heart procedure. It provides education on diet, exercise, and stress management to help you build a healthier future and reduce the risk of future heart problems.
- What is the difference between 'good' (HDL) and 'bad' (LDL) cholesterol?
- Good" (HDL) cholesterol is like a helpful cleaner, carrying "lousy" (LDL) cholesterol away from artery walls. Dr. Srisha Rao helps manage both types to keep your heart and circulation healthy. LDL cholesterol can build up, potentially causing problems, while HDL helps keep your arteries clear.
- What is 'structural heart disease'?
- Structural heart disease is a problem with the heart's walls, chambers, or valves, such as aortic stenosis. Fortunately, many minimally invasive treatment options, like TAVR, are available for seniors.
Cardiovascular Institute of Central Florida
2111 SW 20th Pl
Ocala FL 34471
Phone: (352) 520-2684
Dr. Srisha Rao, 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): 1578548970
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. Cardiology like Dr. Srisha Rao 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.