Dr. Stephen Klemawesch, MD, Internist

Dr. Stephen Klemawesch, MD

Internist in Port St. Joe, FL

(18 reviews)

Dr. Stephen Klemawesch, MD is an Internal Medicine physician practicing at his clinic in Saint Petersburg, FL. He is a dedicated partner in senior health, registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under... Read More Below

Board Certified 50+ Years Experience
Professional Details

Dr. Stephen Klemawesch, MD is an Internal Medicine physician practicing at his clinic in Saint Petersburg, FL. He is a dedicated partner in senior health, registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). His practice is focused on providing compassionate, comprehensive Internal Medicine care for older adults, recognizing the unique needs and challenges of this population. 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. He is not currently accepting new patients, but you can call (727) 345-1900 to inquire about waitlists or future openings.

Dr. Stephen Klemawesch, MD is an internist in Saint Petersburg, FL with over 50 years of experience in the medical field. He has extensive experience in Environmental Allergies. Dr. Klemawesch brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. He earned his medical degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine in 1974 and completed an internship at Yale University in 1975. Following medical school, he undertook residency training in Internal Medicine at the University of Alabama, graduating in 1981, followed by fellowship training in Allergy and Immunology at Duke University Hospital in 1983. He is Board Certified in Allergy & Immunology by the American Board of Allergy & Immunology, and Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. He is affiliated with St. Joseph's Hospital and offers consultations in Spanish.

Dr. Klemawesch's approach to care is deeply rooted in collaborative, evidence-based medicine, ensuring that patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. His commitment to comprehensive, personalized care reflects a profound understanding of the senior population's evolving health needs. His extensive experience, coupled with his dedication to patient well-being, makes him a trusted partner in navigating the complexities of aging.

A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Stephen Klemawesch is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.

Dr. Klemawesch is a dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care focused on your overall well-being and independence. He expertly manages chronic conditions, coordinates complex care, and prioritizes understanding your individual needs and goals to create a personalized plan that maximizes comfort and empowers you to thrive as you age.

By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Stephen Klemawesch can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.

Also Accepts These Carriers

  • Aetna
  • Anthem
  • Blue Card PPO (PPO)
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Choice Plus POS II (POS II)
  • Cigna
  • Curative
  • Curative EPO (EPO)
  • Curative PPO (PPO)
  • Curative PPO Plus (PPO Plus)
  • First Health
  • First Health (Coventry Health Care) PPO (PPO)
  • HealthyBlue 2.0
  • Humana
  • MultiPlan
  • MultiPlan PPO (PPO)
  • National (BlueCard) PPO (PPO)
  • Open Access Plus
  • Select HMO (HMO)
  • Tampa Bay HUMx HMOx (HMOx)

Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Stephen Klemawesch 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:

  • Food Allergy: A food allergy is a serious reaction your body has to a specific food, causing symptoms like hives, swelling, or trouble breathing, and is managed by strictly avoiding the offending food.
  • Diabetes With Renal Manifestations: Diabetes with kidney problems means your diabetes is affecting your kidneys' ability to filter waste, but with careful management and medication, you can protect your kidneys and maintain your health.
  • Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): UTIs are infections in your urinary system, often causing pain and urgency when you urinate. Fortunately, UTIs are usually treatable with antibiotics, helping you to feel more comfortable and prevent serious complications.
  • Hypertension: Hypertension, or high blood pressure, can increase your risk of serious health problems, but simple lifestyle adjustments combined with effective medication can significantly reduce these risks and enable you to enjoy a more fulfilling life.
  • Immunodeficiency Syndromes: Immunodeficiency syndromes weaken your body's ability to fight off infections, making you more vulnerable to illnesses, but with proper medical care and lifestyle adjustments, you can significantly reduce your risk and maintain a good quality of life.
  • Gas-Bloat Syndrome: Experiencing bloating and gas? Gas-bloat syndrome might be the cause, and thankfully, many effective strategies, from diet adjustments to medication, can help you feel better and maintain your active lifestyle.
  • Chest Pain: Experiencing chest pain can be worrying, but many causes are treatable, allowing you to live a more comfortable and independent life.
  • Anemia: Feeling unusually tired or weak? Anemia might be the cause, as it involves a deficiency of red blood cells; your doctor can help determine the underlying reason and develop a treatment plan to improve your strength and daily functioning.
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): GERD, or acid reflux, is a common condition where stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus, causing heartburn and discomfort, but with the right approach and medication, you can effectively manage your symptoms and maintain a comfortable life.
  • IgA Deficiency: IgA deficiency is a condition where your body doesn't produce enough IgA, an antibody that helps fight off infections, potentially leading to more frequent illnesses, but manageable with supportive care.
  • Mast Cell Diseases: Mast cell diseases are conditions where mast cells, part of your immune system, release too many chemicals, causing symptoms like itching, swelling, and fatigue, which can be better managed with medication to improve your comfort and daily life.
  • Herpes Simplex Infection: Oral herpes, also known as cold sores, is a recurring viral infection that can be treated with medications to shorten outbreaks and minimize their impact on daily life.

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. Stephen Klemawesch offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:

  • Skin Testing and Screening: Through skin testing, your doctor can identify and manage potential skin irritants, improving your quality of life.
  • Allergy Shots for Insect Stings: For seniors with insect sting allergies, allergy shots are a proactive step in your care plan, reducing the risk of severe allergic reactions and improving your safety.
  • Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): To create a personalized care plan, your doctor may order an arterial blood gas test to accurately assess your respiratory and overall health.
  • Immunization Administration: Immunization administration is a crucial preventive care step to protect seniors from vaccine-preventable diseases, helping them maintain their health and independence.
  • Blood Allergy Testing: Understanding your allergies through blood testing is a crucial step in preventing severe reactions and improving your overall health, helping your healthcare team build a comprehensive care plan for you.
  • Allergy Shots: Allergy shots, also known as immunotherapy, are a series of injections that can help reduce your sensitivity to allergens over time, improving your quality of life.
  • Desensitization: As part of a comprehensive care plan, desensitization may be used to treat allergic reactions, helping seniors better manage their symptoms and avoid triggers.
  • Allergy Skin Testing: Allergy skin testing helps identify specific allergens triggering your reactions, allowing your doctor to create a personalized plan to manage your symptoms.
  • Allergy Testing: Allergy testing is a valuable tool for diagnosing the cause of your symptoms, such as sneezing, itching, or rashes, leading to more effective treatment.
  • Radioallergosorbent Test: The RAST blood test helps determine what substances cause your allergic reactions, enabling your doctor to tailor a personalized approach to minimize future occurrences.
  • Allergy Treatment: Allergy treatment helps identify and manage allergic reactions, improving your comfort and overall well-being.
  • Patch Testing: Patch testing is a simple procedure that helps your doctor identify what substances might be causing your skin allergies, allowing for better management of your symptoms and improved comfort.

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. Stephen Klemawesch 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 careful guidance on avoiding problematic foods, a senior couple felt significantly less anxious about eating out and enjoyed meals with family again, a cherished activity.
  • With careful management of their diabetes and kidney issues, a senior couple felt more secure in their home environment, confidently resuming their weekly visits to the local senior center.
  • A senior felt a significant reduction in the urinary urgency and pain associated with a UTI, allowing them to enjoy their evening walks again.

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
Education History
  • HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital Port St. Lucie (Residency Hospital)
Board Certifications
  • American Board of Allergy & Immunology (Allergy & Immunology)
  • American Board of Internal Medicine (Internal Medicine)

Here are answers to some common questions about Internal Medicine care with Dr. Stephen Klemawesch:

What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
Internists, like Dr. Klemawesch, are primary care doctors who specialize in adult health. They are experts in the many health concerns that can occur as people age, such as managing chronic conditions and coordinating care with other specialists.
Does Dr. Stephen Klemawesch have experience treating older adults or seniors?
Dr. Klemawesch and other internists are specifically trained in adult medicine and have extensive experience managing the health needs of older adults. They are highly knowledgeable about conditions common in later life, providing comprehensive care.
Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
Dr. Klemawesch'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 input is invaluable for clear communication and support.
What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Stephen Klemawesch?
To prepare for your appointment with Dr. Klemawesch, 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 address.
How do I request a prescription refill?
The easiest way to request a refill is through our patient portal or by contacting 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 help patients who are at risk of falling?
Fall prevention is a key focus for our senior patients. We review medications for potential side effects, assess mobility, and recommend physical therapy or home safety evaluations as needed.
How does your practice support patients with multiple chronic conditions?
Dr. Klemawesch's practice emphasizes a coordinated approach to care for patients with multiple chronic conditions. We work as a central hub, coordinating with specialists and managing medications to create a unified care plan. This helps avoid conflicting treatments and simplifies the patient's healthcare experience.

6294 1st Ave N
Saint Petersburg FL 33710
Phone: (727) 345-1900

Dr. Stephen Klemawesch, 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): 1568467785

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. Stephen Klemawesch 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.

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