Dr. Tara Gibson, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at her clinic in Tampa, FL. Registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), she is committed to partnering with seniors in navigating the complexities of aging. 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. Please call (813) 972-2000 to confirm if Dr. Gibson is currently accepting new patients.
Dr. Tara Gibson, MD is an internist in Tampa, FL, who earned her medical degree from University Of South Florida Morsani College Of Medicine. She is Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine, demonstrating a commitment to staying current with the latest advancements in medical care. Dr. Gibson's approach to care emphasizes collaborative, evidence-based medicine, and creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. Dr. Gibson provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Tara Gibson is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Tara Gibson is a compassionate and dedicated partner in your senior health journey. As your internist, she provides comprehensive internal medicine care, focusing on your overall well-being and independence. She expertly coordinates complex care, manages chronic conditions, and collaborates with you and your loved ones to create a personalized plan that prioritizes your comfort and empowers you to thrive as you age.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Tara Gibson can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Tara Gibson 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:
- Hypothyroidism: Having hypothyroidism means your thyroid gland isn't making enough crucial hormones, leading to fatigue and other issues, however, daily medication can help you regain your vitality and maintain your independence.
- Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): If you're experiencing frequent, urgent urination or burning sensations, you might have a UTI. This infection is effectively treated with antibiotics, helping you regain your comfort and well-being.
- Diarrhea: If you're dealing with diarrhea, know that you're not alone, and there are ways to find relief and get back to enjoying life.
- Headache: Experiencing headaches? Don't let them control your day; a simple chat with your doctor can help find the cause and determine the best treatment to relieve your pain.
- Tinnitus: Tinnitus is a common problem, especially among older adults, where you experience a ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound in your ears even without an external noise source, and managing it can help improve your sleep and overall well-being.
- Insomnia: Experiencing insomnia means struggling to get enough restful sleep, which can leave you feeling tired and irritable during the day; however, many effective strategies and medical interventions are available to help improve your sleep.
- 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.
- Confusion: Feeling confused can be frightening, but it's crucial to understand that it is often a symptom of a manageable condition. Working with your doctor to find the cause and receive appropriate treatment can help restore clarity and improve your overall quality of life.
- ADHD and-or ADD: Untreated ADHD or ADD in later life can lead to difficulties managing daily tasks and impacting social interactions; however, a comprehensive approach involving medication, therapy, and support groups can greatly enhance a senior's ability to live independently and enjoy life to the fullest.
- Herpes Simplex Infection: Genital herpes is a viral infection that causes painful sores in the genital area, but antiviral medications can help manage symptoms and reduce the frequency of outbreaks, improving your comfort and quality of life.
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs): While less frequent in older adults, STDs can still occur and may require specialized medical attention. Prompt treatment can significantly lessen any symptoms and prevent serious long-term complications.
- Dysphagia: If you have dysphagia, it means you're having trouble swallowing, which can be frustrating, but there are ways to manage it, like changing your diet or using swallowing exercises, improving your ability to eat safely and enjoyably.
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. Tara Gibson offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): This test provides valuable information about your body's oxygenation and helps your doctor make informed decisions about your medication and treatment.
- Diabetes Counseling: Through diabetes counseling, you'll learn practical strategies for healthy eating, regular exercise, and medication management to improve your overall well-being.
- 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: Immunization administration is a crucial preventive care step to protect seniors from vaccine-preventable diseases, helping them maintain their health and independence.
- Pap Smear: Regular Pap smears are a crucial part of preventive care, helping to identify precancerous changes before they become serious health problems.
- Diabetes With Renal Manifestations: This service helps diagnose and manage diabetes-related kidney complications through regular checkups, blood tests, and tailored treatment strategies to maintain your overall well-being.
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. Tara Gibson 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:
- A senior citizen, experiencing persistent fatigue, found renewed energy and vitality after beginning medication for hypothyroidism. They were able to rejoin their book club and enjoy stimulating conversations again.
- After receiving guidance on managing a urinary tract infection, a senior citizen felt a significant reduction in the frequent and urgent urination that had been disrupting their sleep and daily routines. They were able to enjoy evening walks again with renewed comfort and confidence.
- After seeking guidance for persistent diarrhea, a senior couple found relief from their symptoms, allowing them to resume their regular dining outings with friends.
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)
Here are answers to some common questions about Internal Medicine care with Dr. Tara Gibson:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Dr. Gibson and her team are internists, primary care doctors who specialize in adult health. They are experts in the many health issues that can arise with aging, such as managing chronic conditions and coordinating care with other specialists.
- Does Dr. Tara Gibson have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Dr. Gibson is an internist, specializing in adult medicine, and has extensive experience treating the unique health needs of older adults. She is knowledgeable about the conditions commonly affecting seniors.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Gibson and our team believe in a team approach to care, and we welcome the involvement of family members and caregivers, with the patient's permission. Their participation is invaluable for ensuring clear communication and providing the best possible support.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Tara Gibson?
- To prepare for your appointment with Dr. Gibson, 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 contacting your pharmacy directly. Please allow 2-3 business days for requests to be processed. If you have any questions, please call 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.
- What is your philosophy on maintaining quality of life for patients with serious illnesses?
- Dr. Gibson's practice prioritizes a patient-centered approach. Our primary goal is to manage symptoms effectively, aligning treatment with each patient's personal values and goals. Comfort and dignity are always paramount.
- How does Dr. Tara Gibson help patients manage their blood pressure?
- Dr. Gibson helps patients manage blood pressure by prescribing medication when needed, but also by closely monitoring blood pressure, providing lifestyle counseling on diet and exercise, and creating a personalized plan to help patients reach and maintain healthy levels.
13000 Bruce B Downs Blvd
Tampa FL 33612
Phone: (813) 972-2000
Dr. Tara Gibson, 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): 1912296120
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. Tara Gibson 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.