Dr. Steve Smith, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at MDVIP - Plant City, FL in Plant City, 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 serves primarily older adults (65 and older), but also including younger adults with complex medical needs. While Dr. Smith is not currently accepting new patients, you can call (813) 771-3239 to inquire about waitlists or future openings.
Dr. Smith, an Internal Medicine physician, offers a different approach to primary care. He sees fewer patients, which means more time for each one. Patients appreciate same/next-day appointments that start on time and aren't rushed; plus they can usually reach his 24/7. His practice also offers other services, including comprehensive, advanced health screenings and diagnostic tests, that go far beyond those found in concierge medicine practices. Dr. Smith develops a personalized wellness plan based on the results of the wellness program. He earned his medical degree from Ross University School Of Medicine and completed his residency training in Internal Medicine at St John Hospital Wayne State University|St. John Hospital Detroit, Mi. His MDVIP-affiliated practice is open to new patients. Dr. Smith's care philosophy emphasizes preventive care and personalized attention, empowering him to deliver a better healthcare experience. He provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Steve Smith is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Steve Smith is a dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care. He meticulously coordinates complex care, manages chronic conditions, and prioritizes your overall well-being and independence. His compassionate approach focuses on understanding your individual needs and goals, ensuring a plan is tailored to maximize your comfort and quality of life as you age.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Steve Smith can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Aetna
Cigna
Coventry Health Care
Coventry Health Care of Florida
Humana
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Buckeye Community Health Plan
- First Health
- First Health (Coventry Health Care)
- Medicare
- MultiPlan
- MultiPlan PPO (PPO)
- United Healthcare
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Steve Smith 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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Sleep Apnea: If you or a loved one snores loudly and often feel tired despite sleeping enough, it might be sleep apnea, a condition easily diagnosed and treated to restore restful nights and improve energy levels.
- Tinnitus: Experiencing a constant ringing or buzzing in your ears (tinnitus) can significantly affect your quality of life, however various therapies, lifestyle changes, and coping mechanisms are available to help you manage the sound and improve your daily comfort.
- Long COVID Disorder: Long COVID can affect many parts of the body, causing a range of symptoms for a prolonged period after a COVID-19 infection. Working with your doctor to develop a personalized plan can help you live more comfortably.
- Hypogonadism: Experiencing decreased energy, bone loss, or changes in mood? These could be symptoms of hypogonadism, a condition of low sex hormones. Working with your doctor to manage it can significantly improve your quality of life and independence.
- Bronchitis: Bronchitis is an inflammation of the tubes leading to your lungs, commonly causing a cough that may produce mucus; managing it effectively can help lessen its impact on your daily life, allowing you to remain active and engaged.
- Sinusitis: When your sinuses, the cavities in your face, become inflamed, it's called sinusitis, leading to discomfort like headaches and a stuffy nose; simple remedies and medical care can help manage the symptoms and prevent complications.
- Herpes Simplex Infection: While herpes simplex infections can be uncomfortable, antiviral medications are available to control symptoms and reduce the severity and frequency of outbreaks, allowing you to maintain your independence.
- Anemia: Anemia, a decrease in red blood cells, can cause fatigue, shortness of breath, and dizziness; working with your doctor to identify and address the underlying cause is crucial for restoring your health and improving your quality of life.
- Dysphagia: Experiencing dysphagia, or trouble swallowing, can be worrying, but many effective treatments are available, from simple dietary adjustments to specialized therapies, helping you safely and comfortably enjoy your favorite foods and drinks again.
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. Steve Smith offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Advance Directive End of Life Planning: By creating an advance directive, you actively participate in shaping your healthcare decisions and alleviate potential burdens on your loved ones.
- 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).
- Breath Testing: This painless test provides valuable insights into your digestive system's health, helping to manage symptoms and potentially avoid more invasive procedures.
- Electrocardiogram (EKG): An electrocardiogram (EKG) is a simple test that uses small sensors placed on your chest to check your heart's rhythm and electrical activity, helping your doctor assess your heart health and manage any potential problems.
- Immunization Administration: Regular immunization updates ensure that seniors' immune systems are adequately prepared to fight infections, significantly contributing to their quality of life.
- 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: Through a physical exam, your doctor can detect subtle signs of illness or changes in your body, allowing for timely intervention and better management of chronic conditions.
- Spirometry: To effectively manage your lung disease, spirometry helps your doctor monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
- Urinalysis: This quick and painless urine test helps diagnose various conditions from infections to underlying health problems, guiding your doctor in creating the best treatment strategy.
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. Steve Smith 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 receiving guidance on managing her deep vein thrombosis, a senior felt significantly less pain and swelling in her legs, allowing her to resume her favorite pastime of walking in the park every day.
- After experiencing painful shingles, a senior couple felt much more comfortable at home, able to resume their regular evening walks together.
- With osteoarthritis better managed through a comprehensive treatment plan, a senior couple regained their ability to enjoy daily walks in the park, a cherished activity that brought them joy and connection.
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)
Here are answers to some common questions about Internal Medicine care with Dr. Steve Smith:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Dr. Smith's practice is for adults. Internists are primary care doctors who specialize in adult health, making them experts in the many health issues that can arise with age. They excel at managing chronic conditions and coordinating care with other specialists.
- Does Dr. Steve Smith have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Dr. Smith is an internist, specializing in adult medicine, and has extensive experience treating the unique health needs of older adults. He is knowledgeable about the common conditions affecting seniors and is well-equipped to provide comprehensive care.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Smith's practice strongly believes in a team approach to care. We welcome the involvement of family members and caregivers, with the patient's permission, as their participation is invaluable in ensuring clear communication and support.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Steve Smith?
- 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. If you have any questions, please contact our office.
- 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.
- Does Dr. Steve Smith treat acute illnesses like colds or the flu?
- Dr. Smith and our practice treat acute illnesses like colds and the flu. Please call the office at the first sign of symptoms to discuss the best course of action for you.
- What is your philosophy on maintaining quality of life for patients with serious illnesses?
- Dr. Smith's practice prioritizes a patient-centered approach. We aim to manage symptoms effectively, align treatment with each patient's personal values and goals, and ensure comfort and dignity are paramount throughout their care.
MDVIP - Plant City, FL
102 Southern Oaks Dr
Plant City FL 33563
Phone: (813) 771-3239
Dr. Steve Smith, 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): 1174696256
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. Steve Smith 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.