Dr. Stephen Patterson, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at his clinic in Vero Beach, FL. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the 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. Patterson is currently welcoming new patients; please call (772) 226-4810 to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Stephen Patterson, MD is an internist in Vero Beach, FL with over 30 years of experience in the medical field. He earned his medical degree from the University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine in 1992, and completed his residency training in Internal Medicine at the University of South Florida College of Medicine, specializing in the comprehensive medical care of older adults. He is Board Certified in Medical Oncology by the American Board of Internal Medicine. With this wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care, he brings a deep understanding of the unique needs of seniors and their families. Dr. Patterson is affiliated with Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital and Holy Cross Hospital and is accepting new patients. He provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Stephen Patterson is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Stephen Patterson is a dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care focused on your overall well-being and independence. He meticulously coordinates complex care, manages chronic conditions with compassion, and prioritizes understanding your individual needs and goals to create a personalized plan that maximizes your comfort and continued ability to thrive.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Stephen Patterson can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Aetna
AvMed
Cigna
Coventry Health Care
Golden Rule
Humana
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Aetna HMO (HMO)
- Buckeye Community Health Plan
- CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Choice Care PPO (PPO)
- Choice Plus POS II (POS II)
- Cigna HMO (HMO)
- Cigna PPO (PPO)
- Curative
- Curative EPO (EPO)
- Curative PPO (PPO)
- Curative PPO Plus (PPO Plus)
- First Health
- First Health (Coventry Health Care) PPO (PPO)
- HealthyBlue 2.0
- HealthyBlue Advantage
- LocalPlus
- Medicaid
- Medicare
- Midwest Health Plan
- MultiPlan
- MultiPlan PPO (PPO)
- Open Access Plus
- Select HMO (HMO)
- United Healthcare
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Stephen Patterson 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:
- Gastroptosis: A dropped stomach, medically termed gastroptosis, might cause some digestive upset, but thankfully, most cases are managed through dietary modifications and regular exercise, leading to improved comfort and well-being.
- Mycosis Fungoides: Mycosis fungoides is a slow-growing skin cancer that requires specialized medical attention; treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications to help you live as fully as possible.
- Neutropenia: Low neutrophil counts, or neutropenia, can increase the risk of infections, but working closely with your doctor, through regular check-ups and potential medication adjustments, you can effectively manage this and continue enjoying your daily activities.
- Leukocytosis: If you're experiencing leukocytosis, it means your body is producing more white blood cells than usual, usually to fight off something; finding and addressing the root cause is key to better health.
- Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS): Antiphospholipid syndrome is a condition that can disrupt normal blood flow, sometimes causing clots; managing it involves working with your doctor to find the right medications and lifestyle adjustments to prevent serious health issues and maintain your independence.
- Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML): CML is a cancer affecting the bone marrow's blood cell production, but with modern treatments, it can often be controlled to prevent symptoms and maintain independence.
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Imagine a blood clot forming in a deep leg vein—that's a DVT; early detection is key, and with appropriate medical care such as medication and compression stockings, you can significantly reduce the risk of dangerous complications and improve your overall comfort and ability to move around.
- Tobacco Use Disorder: It's common for older adults to develop a tobacco use disorder, but help is available to quit and reduce the risks to their lungs, heart, and overall health, enhancing their independence and enjoyment of life.
- Aspergillosis: If you or a loved one has aspergillosis, a lung infection caused by a mold, it's important to work with a doctor to develop a treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and goals.
- Cachexia: If you're experiencing unexplained weight loss and fatigue, it could be cachexia, a condition where your body loses muscle mass, but working with your doctor can ease symptoms and improve your quality of life.
- Muscle Cramping: Muscle cramping is a sudden, involuntary tightening of a muscle that can cause pain and discomfort, but with proper management, you can ease the pain and maintain your daily activities.
- 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.
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 Patterson offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- 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 Marrow Biopsy: A bone marrow biopsy can help determine the severity and type of certain blood cancers and guide treatment decisions for a better health outcome.
- Cardiac MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) of Heart or Chest: A cardiac MRI is a detailed scan of your heart and chest, helping your doctor pinpoint the cause of chest pain or shortness of breath and guide your treatment plan.
- 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.
- 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.
- Immunization Administration: Through timely immunizations, we can help prevent hospitalizations and complications related to infectious diseases, keeping seniors healthier and more active.
- Thoracentesis: To better manage your breathing problems, your doctor might recommend thoracentesis, a procedure to drain excess fluid from around your lungs, improving your comfort and breathing.
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 Patterson 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 dietary changes and gentle exercise, a senior couple found their digestive discomfort significantly reduced, allowing them to enjoy evening strolls and meals together with renewed ease.
- With expert guidance, a senior with Mycosis Fungoides experienced a significant reduction in skin irritation, allowing them to resume their beloved hobby of painting without discomfort.
- With regular check-ups and medication adjustments, a senior felt more secure at home, safely resuming their beloved book club meetings.
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 Board of Internal Medicine (Medical Oncology)
Here are answers to some common questions about Internal Medicine care with Dr. Stephen Patterson:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Dr. Patterson is an internist, a primary care doctor who specializes in treating adults. Internists are experts in the many health issues that can arise with aging, such as managing chronic conditions and coordinating care with specialists. They provide comprehensive care for adults.
- Does Dr. Stephen Patterson have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Dr. Patterson's practice specializes in adult medicine, including the specific needs of older adults. He has extensive experience managing the health concerns common in later life, and is well-equipped to provide comprehensive care for seniors.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Patterson and our practice believe in a team approach to care, and we welcome the participation of family members and caregivers, with the patient's permission. Their involvement is valuable in ensuring clear communication and support for the best possible health outcomes.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Stephen Patterson?
- To prepare for your first appointment with Dr. Patterson, 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?
- To request a prescription refill, please use our patient portal or contact your pharmacy directly. Please allow 2-3 business days for your request 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.
- What kind of breathing or lung conditions do you manage?
- Dr. Patterson's practice manages common respiratory conditions such as asthma and COPD. We focus on helping patients effectively manage their symptoms, including proper inhaler use, and developing personalized action plans to prevent flare-ups.
- What is the practice's approach to discussing memory concerns or cognitive changes?
- Dr. Patterson and our team understand that memory concerns can be worrisome. We provide a safe and supportive environment to discuss these worries, offer initial cognitive screenings, and can coordinate referrals to specialists if needed.
3555 10th Ct Ste 200B
Vero Beach FL 32960
Phone: (772) 226-4810
Dr. Stephen Patterson, 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): 1194748905
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 Patterson 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.