Dr. Starleen Schaffer, MD is an Internal Medicine physician practicing at her clinic in Sebastian, FL. She is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). As a dedicated partner in senior health, Dr. Schaffer is committed to providing compassionate, comprehensive Internal Medicine care for older adults. 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. She primarily serves older adults (65 and older), but also includes younger adults with complex medical needs.
Dr. Starleen Schaffer, MD is an internist in Sebastian, FL and has over 25 years of experience in the medical field. She graduated from University at Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences in 1996. She is affiliated with medical facilities such as Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital and Larkin Community Hospital. With over 25 years of dedicated experience in Internal Medicine care, she brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to her patients and their families. She completed an internship at East Tennessee State University, Quillen College of Medicine|Jackson Mem Hosp-U Miami, and East Tennessee State University James H. Quillen College of Medicine, and Jackson Mem Hosp-U Miami, followed by residency training in Internal Medicine at East Tennessee State University James H. Quillen College of Medicine, specializing in the comprehensive medical care of primarily older adults (65 and older), but also including younger adults with complex medical needs. Dr. Schaffer is committed to collaborative, evidence-based medicine and creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. She is currently welcoming new patients and telehealth appointments. Please call (772) 589-9998 to schedule an appointment. Dr. Starleen Schaffer provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Starleen Schaffer is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Starleen Schaffer is a compassionate and dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care that prioritizes your well-being and independence. She expertly manages chronic conditions, coordinates complex care, and focuses on empowering you to thrive as you age, ensuring a smooth and supportive transition through each stage of your life.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Starleen Schaffer can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- APCN Choice POS II (POS II)
- Aetna
- Aetna HMO (HMO)
- Blue Card High Performance Network HPN (HPN)
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Choice Plus POS (POS)
- Choice Plus POS II (POS II)
- Elect Choice (Open Access) EPO (EPO)
- FL Medical Providers
- Managed Choice (Open Access) POS (POS)
- Navigate HMO (HMO)
- Navigate Plus POS (POS)
- Nexus Open Access
- Options PPO (PPO)
- Premier Care Network Plus - Innovation Health
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Starleen Schaffer 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:
- Muscle Cramping: Muscle cramps, though sometimes worrying, are frequently manageable through lifestyle adjustments and, if needed, medication. This can ensure your continued comfort and mobility.
- Bronchitis: Bronchitis is a respiratory infection that causes inflammation and irritation in your airways, leading to coughing and shortness of breath; treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing complications to help you maintain your independence.
- Sciatica: Sciatica, a painful condition affecting the nerve running down the leg, can be eased with treatments like physical therapy, medication, and sometimes even injections, helping you stay active and independent.
- Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Think of a TIA as a warning sign from your brain; it's a temporary blockage of blood flow that can lead to symptoms like weakness or numbness, but with prompt medical care, you can reduce your risk of a full-blown stroke and maintain your independence.
- Diabetic Polyneuropathy: High blood sugar over time can damage the nerves throughout your body, a condition called diabetic polyneuropathy that often shows up as numbness or pain in your feet and hands. Good blood sugar control is key to slowing its progression and improving your quality of life.
- Gas-Bloat Syndrome: Gas and bloating can significantly impact your well-being, but understanding gas-bloat syndrome and its management—through diet, lifestyle, or medication—can help restore comfort and independence.
- Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR): Experiencing unexplained aches and stiffness? PMR is a possibility, and the good news is that it's often manageable with medication, allowing you to maintain your independence and enjoy a higher quality of life.
- Syncope: For seniors, syncope can be a serious concern, but prompt diagnosis and treatment, often involving lifestyle modifications or medication adjustments, can significantly improve quality of life and help maintain an active lifestyle.
- Hyperlipidemia: Having high cholesterol (hyperlipidemia) means there's too much fatty substance in your blood, potentially harming your heart, but managing it through healthy eating, exercise, and possibly medication can help you live a long and fulfilling life.
- Sinusitis: Experiencing facial pain, pressure, and a blocked nose might indicate sinusitis, an inflammation of your sinuses; your doctor can help determine the best course of action, easing your discomfort and improving your well-being.
- Dyslipidemia: Having dyslipidemia simply means your blood fat levels are off, increasing the chances of heart problems; however, through lifestyle changes and possibly medication, you can reduce these risks and maintain your independence.
- Acute Sinusitis: When your sinuses become inflamed and infected, resulting in acute sinusitis, you might experience headaches, stuffiness, and a runny nose; your doctor can help manage these symptoms and prevent complications.
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. Starleen Schaffer offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Vaccination: Vaccinations help safeguard seniors against preventable diseases, empowering them to live healthier, more active lives and reducing their healthcare burden.
- 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.
- Breath Testing: Breath testing is a simple, non-invasive procedure that can help your doctor detect hidden health problems like digestive issues or infections.
- Pap Smear: A Pap smear is a simple test that helps detect changes in the cells of your cervix, allowing for early diagnosis and treatment of cervical cancer.
- Spirometry: To effectively manage your lung disease, spirometry helps your doctor monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
- Fecal Occult Blood Test for Colorectal Cancer: This easy test, checking for hidden blood in your stool, can help your doctor find and manage colorectal cancer early, improving treatment outcomes.
- Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): An arterial blood gas test helps your doctor understand how well your lungs are working and how your body is managing oxygen and carbon dioxide.
- 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.
- Immunization: Immunization is a crucial preventive measure that protects seniors from serious illnesses like influenza and pneumonia, helping them stay healthier and more active.
- Electrocardiogram (EKG): As part of your routine checkup, an EKG can help identify early signs of heart disease, allowing for proactive management of your condition and improve your overall well-being.
- Diabetes Counseling: Diabetes counseling provides guidance and support to help you confidently navigate the challenges of living with diabetes and maintain a healthy life.
- Chronic Care Management: By focusing on prevention and early intervention, Chronic Care Management helps seniors with chronic conditions avoid hospitalizations and maintain their independence.
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. Starleen Schaffer 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 guidance from a knowledgeable internal medicine specialist, a senior was able to reduce the frequency and intensity of muscle cramps, allowing them to resume their beloved evening walks with newfound ease and confidence.
- With the guidance of a skilled medical professional, a senior citizen found relief from persistent coughing and shortness of breath, allowing them to once again enjoy their favorite hobby of playing cards with friends.
- With the guidance of a compassionate medical professional, a senior was able to reduce sciatica pain significantly, allowing her to resume her beloved daily walks in the park. This newfound mobility brought her a renewed sense of freedom and joy.
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)
Here are answers to some common questions about Internal Medicine care with Dr. Starleen Schaffer:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Dr. Schaffer and her team are internists, primary care doctors who specialize in treating adults. They are experts in the many health issues that can develop with age, including managing chronic conditions and coordinating care for complex needs.
- Does Dr. Starleen Schaffer have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Dr. Schaffer's practice specializes in adult medicine, including the unique health needs of older adults. She has extensive experience managing conditions common in later life, and is well-equipped to care for you.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Schaffer's practice strongly believes 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 in ensuring clear communication and support for the best possible care.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Starleen Schaffer?
- 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 have written down.
- How do I request a prescription refill?
- The easiest way to request a refill is through our patient portal or by calling our office. Please allow 2-3 business days for requests to be processed. If you have questions, please contact our office.
- Does the practice accept Medicare?
- Our practice accepts Medicare. To ensure we are in-network with your particular plan, please call the number on your insurance card or contact our billing office for assistance.
- How does Dr. Starleen Schaffer approach managing type 2 diabetes?
- Dr. Schaffer's approach to type 2 diabetes management is comprehensive, focusing on medication management tailored to individual needs, regular blood sugar monitoring, and crucial lifestyle counseling. This includes personalized dietary recommendations, exercise plans, and detailed foot care instructions to empower patients in effectively managing their condition.
- What is the practice's approach to discussing memory concerns or cognitive changes?
- Dr. Schaffer and our team understand that memory concerns are common as we age. We create a safe and supportive environment to discuss these worries. Initial cognitive screenings are available, and we can coordinate referrals to specialists if further evaluation is needed.
7765 144th St Unit 4
Sebastian FL 32958
Phone: (772) 589-9998
Dr. Starleen Schaffer, 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): 1407855174
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. Starleen Schaffer 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.