Dr. Thomas Austin, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at his clinic in Clearwater, FL. He is a registered physician with The Florida Board of Medicine, practicing under 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 including younger adults with complex medical needs. Dr. Austin is currently welcoming new patients, so please call (727) 601-4007 to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Thomas Austin, MD is an internist in Clearwater, FL and has over 30 years of experience in the medical field. With this wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care, he brings a deep understanding of the unique needs of older adults. He graduated from the University of Tennessee College of Medicine in 1993 and completed his residency training in Internal Medicine at Jackson Mem Hosp/Jackson Health, and University Tn Grad School Of Med. He is Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine and is affiliated with Morton Plant Hospital. Dr. Austin is committed to collaborative, evidence-based medicine, creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. He is accepting new patients and telehealth appointments. Dr. Austin offers consultations in Spanish.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Thomas Austin is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Austin is a dedicated partner in your senior health journey, offering comprehensive internal medicine care focused on your overall well-being. He meticulously coordinates complex care, expertly manages chronic conditions, and prioritizes your independence and comfort, tailoring his approach to your unique needs and goals. His compassionate care extends to fostering open communication with you and your family, ensuring a supportive and proactive partnership in maintaining your health and vitality as you age.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Thomas Austin can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Aetna
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Cigna
- Cigna PPO (PPO)
- Curative
- Curative EPO (EPO)
- Curative PPO (PPO)
- Curative PPO Plus (PPO Plus)
- First Health
- First Health (Coventry Health Care) PPO (PPO)
- Humana
- Select HMO (HMO)
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Thomas Austin 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:
- Bedsores: Bedsores, also called pressure ulcers, are injuries to the skin and underlying tissue caused by prolonged pressure, often affecting people who have difficulty moving.
- Nausea: Nausea is that queasy, uneasy feeling in your stomach that can make you feel like you might vomit.
- Leukocytopenia: Leukocytopenia is a condition where you have a lower than normal number of white blood cells, which are crucial for fighting infections, and managing it often involves addressing the underlying cause to help you stay healthy and active.
- Benign Chronic Pain Syndrome: Benign Chronic Pain Syndrome means you have long-term pain without a specific, identifiable disease. We can work together to find the right combination of treatments and coping mechanisms so you can live more comfortably.
- Abdominal Pain: Abdominal pain can impact your quality of life, but appropriate diagnosis and treatment, often involving medication or lifestyle adjustments, can significantly reduce discomfort and improve well-being.
- Obesity: Carrying extra weight, known as obesity, can make daily activities harder, but working with a healthcare provider on a weight-management plan can help you maintain your independence.
- Dry Eyes: Dry eye is a common condition, especially as we age, where a lack of lubrication leads to irritation, itching, and burning; your doctor can help determine the best treatment plan for you to maintain comfortable vision.
- Blood in Urine (Hematuria): Finding blood in your urine doesn't have to disrupt your life; with a doctor's assessment and a personalized treatment plan, you can often manage the underlying cause and keep living comfortably.
- Hypotension (Excluding Maternal): Low blood pressure can sometimes lead to falls, but your doctor can work with you to find ways to prevent them and maintain your independence.
- Chronic Pain: Managing chronic pain involves working closely with your doctor to find the right treatment plan, which might include medication, therapies, and self-management strategies, to help you live more comfortably and maintain your independence.
- Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism is an underactive thyroid gland, meaning it doesn't produce enough hormones to keep your body functioning at its best, but with medication, you can feel more energetic and manage your symptoms effectively.
- Acute Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Dealing with leg pain and swelling? It could be a DVT, a serious blood clot requiring prompt medical care. With appropriate treatment, including blood thinners, you can avoid potentially life-threatening complications and maintain your active lifestyle.
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. Thomas Austin offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Abscess or Fluid Incision and Drainage: Removing fluid or pus through incision and drainage can relieve pain and pressure, improving your quality of life and facilitating faster recovery.
- Advance Directive End of Life Planning: Advance directive end-of-life planning ensures your wishes regarding medical care are respected during your final stages of life.
- 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.
- 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.
- Fecal Occult Blood Test for Colorectal Cancer: A fecal occult blood test is a simple screening tool that can help detect hidden blood in your stool, an early sign that might indicate colorectal cancer.
- Immunization Administration: Through timely immunizations, we can help prevent hospitalizations and complications related to infectious diseases, keeping seniors healthier and more active.
- Stereotactic Radiosurgery: For seniors facing complex neurological issues, stereotactic radiosurgery offers a targeted approach to treat challenging conditions, acting as a key component of a tailored healthcare 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. Thomas Austin 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:
- The senior's family felt a profound sense of relief as the painful bedsores began to heal, allowing them to return to their comfortable routines and enjoy their home safely.
- The senior couple found relief from persistent nausea, allowing them to enjoy their weekly dinners out with friends again, a cherished social activity.
- With guidance on managing their leukocytopenia, a senior couple felt more confident in their ability to safely enjoy their usual outdoor activities, like tending their garden and visiting friends.
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 (Internal Medicine)
Here are answers to some common questions about Internal Medicine care with Dr. Thomas Austin:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Dr. Austin and our team are internists, meaning we are primary care doctors specializing in adult health. We are experts in the many health issues that can come with aging, including managing chronic conditions and coordinating care with other specialists. We're here to help you navigate your health journey.
- Does Dr. Thomas Austin have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Dr. Thomas Austin and other internists are specifically trained in adult medicine, including the unique health needs of older adults. They have extensive experience managing conditions common in later life, such as heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis. Our practice is dedicated to providing exceptional care for seniors.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Austin 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. Thomas Austin?
- To prepare for your appointment with Dr. Austin, 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. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to 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.
- Does Dr. Thomas Austin treat acute illnesses like colds or the flu?
- Dr. Austin and our practice are happy to treat acute illnesses like colds and the flu. Please call our office at the first sign of symptoms to discuss the best course of action for you.
- How does your practice support patients with multiple chronic conditions?
- Dr. Austin's practice emphasizes a holistic approach to care for seniors with multiple chronic conditions. We coordinate with specialists, manage medications meticulously, and create a unified care plan to avoid conflicting treatments and simplify your healthcare journey. This collaborative model ensures comprehensive and effective management of your health needs.
611 Druid Rd E Ste 511
Clearwater FL 33756
Phone: (727) 601-4007
Dr. Thomas Austin, 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): 1669470746
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. Thomas Austin 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.