Dr. Sushilla Beecum, MD is a Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults. As a partner in your senior health journey, she practices at Sushilla Beecum, MD in St Petersburg, FL, and is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine, practicing 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. She primarily serves older adults (65 and older), but also includes younger adults with complex medical needs. Dr. Beecum is currently welcoming new patients; please call (239) 900-9673 to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Sushilla Beecum, MD is an internist in St Petersburg, FL with over 45 years of experience in the medical field. She earned her medical degree from University Of Natal in 1977 and completed an internship at Brooklyn Jewish Hospital, followed by residency training in Internal Medicine at University Of Tennessee College Of Medicine. With over 45 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 is Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine and affiliated with HCA Florida Northside Hospital and HCA Florida Saint Petersburg Hospital. Dr. Beecum believes in giving each patient individualized care, emphasizing preventative care and empowering patients to take charge of their health. You will see Dr. Beecum herself during your office visits. She is also accepting new patients. Dr. Sushilla Beecum offers consultations in Hindi.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Sushilla Beecum is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Beecum is a compassionate and dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care. She meticulously coordinates complex care, effectively manages chronic conditions, and prioritizes your overall well-being and independence. Her approach emphasizes understanding your unique needs and personal goals, ensuring a supportive and personalized experience as you navigate the aging process.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Sushilla Beecum can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Curative
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Curative EPO (EPO)
- Curative PPO (PPO)
- Curative PPO Plus (PPO Plus)
- Medicaid
- Midwest Health Plan
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Sushilla Beecum 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:
- Enteritis: Enteritis, an inflammation of the intestines, can be uncomfortable, but with the right treatment plan from your doctor, such as medication and dietary changes, you can get back to enjoying your life and maintain your independence.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common digestive disorder causing abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits, but with proper management, you can find relief and maintain your active lifestyle.
- Urinary Incontinence: Urinary incontinence, or loss of bladder control, affects many older adults and often improves with simple adjustments to diet, fluid intake, and bathroom habits, along with potential medical interventions.
- Leukocytopenia: A low white blood cell count, or leukocytopenia, can increase your susceptibility to infections, but with careful management and attention to preventive measures, you can significantly reduce your risk and live a fulfilling life.
- Confusion: Confusion can impact daily life, making tasks like remembering appointments or managing medications difficult. With proper medical assessment and management, many individuals can experience a significant improvement in their cognitive abilities, leading to better daily functioning.
- Asthma: Experiencing wheezing, chest tightness, or shortness of breath might indicate asthma, a treatable condition that, with the right care, can allow you to enjoy your daily activities without significant limitations.
- Gait Abnormality: Gait abnormalities are changes in walking patterns that can range from minor to significant; working with your doctor can lead to improved mobility and a higher quality of life.
- Sepsis: Sepsis happens when an infection triggers a dangerous immune response, potentially harming your vital organs; quick treatment with antibiotics and supportive care can significantly improve your chances of recovery and help you stay comfortable.
- Hypertension: High blood pressure (hypertension) is a silent condition, often without symptoms, but it's crucial to manage it as it can damage your organs. With your doctor's help, through medication and healthy habits, you can protect your health and well-being.
- Intestinal Diverticulitis: Diverticulitis, characterized by inflamed pouches in your intestines, might cause abdominal pain, but effective treatments and preventive strategies, including dietary adjustments, will help reduce discomfort and maintain your health.
- Gout: Gout is a type of arthritis causing painful swelling in your joints, often the big toe, that's managed with medication and lifestyle changes to ease discomfort and maintain your mobility.
- Constipation: Managing constipation involves increasing fiber intake, drinking plenty of fluids, and regular exercise, all of which can help maintain independence and comfort.
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. Sushilla Beecum offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Smoking Cessation Counseling: For seniors, smoking cessation counseling provides expert guidance and support to successfully quit smoking, leading to better cardiovascular and respiratory health.
- Cholesterol Screening: Understanding your cholesterol levels through screening empowers you and your doctor to make informed decisions about your health and reduce your risk of future complications.
- Vaccination: As part of your regular health check-ups, vaccinations help assess your immunity levels and protect you from potentially dangerous infections.
- Liver Function Test: Liver function tests are a crucial part of comprehensive health screenings for seniors, helping to identify underlying liver issues that might otherwise go unnoticed.
- Osteoporosis Screening: As part of your overall health plan, osteoporosis screening assesses bone density to identify potential problems and guide preventive measures.
- Geriatric Assessment: This specialized assessment helps doctors diagnose underlying health problems, often unseen in a routine checkup, allowing for early intervention and improved quality of life.
- 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.
- Anemia and Iron Deficiency Screening: Regular anemia and iron deficiency screening is a vital part of managing your health, allowing for early detection and treatment of these conditions.
- Thyroid Screening: This simple test helps assess your thyroid health, enabling early detection of conditions like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, leading to effective management and a better quality of life.
- 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.
- Immunization: Staying up-to-date with immunizations is a key part of a comprehensive care plan, helping to prevent infections and reduce the need for more extensive medical treatment later on.
- Immunization Administration: Immunization administration is a key component of a comprehensive care plan, ensuring seniors receive protection against potentially debilitating infections.
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. Sushilla Beecum 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 following a tailored treatment plan, including medication and dietary adjustments, a senior felt a significant reduction in intestinal discomfort, allowing them to return to their beloved hobby of gardening and enjoy meals without distress.
- With improved management of their irritable bowel syndrome, a senior couple was able to enjoy their weekly lunches out with friends without the worry of digestive discomfort.
- With a tailored plan for managing urinary incontinence, a senior felt more confident and secure in their home environment, regaining the ability to enjoy social gatherings 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 (Internal Medicine)
- A Physician who Cares-Florida Medical Association, 2007
- Physicians Recognition Award-American Medical Association, 1984
Here are answers to some common questions about Internal Medicine care with Dr. Sushilla Beecum:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Dr. Beecum and her team are internists, meaning they are primary care doctors who specialize in treating adults. They are experts in the complex health issues that can arise with age, and are adept at managing chronic diseases and coordinating care with other specialists.
- Does Dr. Sushilla Beecum have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Dr. Beecum's practice specializes in adult medicine, and she has extensive experience treating the unique health needs of older adults. She is knowledgeable about the conditions that commonly affect seniors and is well-equipped to provide comprehensive care.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Beecum and our practice believe 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. Sushilla Beecum?
- To prepare for your appointment with Dr. Beecum, 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 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.
- What is your philosophy on maintaining quality of life for patients with serious illnesses?
- Our philosophy centers on providing personalized care, prioritizing symptom management, aligning treatment with your values and goals, and ensuring comfort and dignity are paramount.
- How do you manage chronic pain, such as arthritis?
- Dr. Beecum's approach to chronic pain, like arthritis, is multifaceted. It includes appropriate medications, referrals to physical therapy, and discussions about lifestyle adjustments to help manage discomfort and maintain activity levels.
Sushilla Beecum, MD
7000 54th Ave N
St Petersburg FL 33709
Phone: (239) 900-9673
Dr. Sushilla Beecum, 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): 1063478345
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. Sushilla Beecum 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.