Dr. Vijay Patel, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at his clinic in Gainesville, 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. Dr. Patel is not currently accepting new patients, but you may call (352) 332-3900 to inquire about waitlists or future openings. This physician is no longer practicing at Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute. To ensure treatment and care plans remain uninterrupted all existing patients have been transferred to another FCS physician for continued care. Every FCS physician shares a long-standing dedication to oncology and is here to guide you through each step of your cancer treatment. All our actions are centered on you and ensuring you achieve the best possible outcome. Please contact your FCS care team to set an appointment with one of our specialists. He earned his medical degree from Ross University School Of Medicine and is Board Certified in Hematology by the American Board of Internal Medicine, and Board Certified in Medical Oncology by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Dr. Patel's approach to care emphasizes collaborative, evidence-based medicine, creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. He offers consultations in Gujarati.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Vijay Patel is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Patel is a dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care. He meticulously coordinates complex care, expertly manages chronic conditions, and prioritizes your overall well-being and independence. His compassionate approach focuses on understanding your unique needs and goals, ensuring a personalized plan to help you thrive as you age.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Vijay Patel can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Aetna
Cigna
Coventry Health Care
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Aetna HMO (HMO)
- CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Choice Plus
- Choice Plus POS II (POS II)
- Cigna HMO (HMO)
- Cigna PPO (PPO)
- First Health
- First Health (Coventry Health Care)
- First Health (Coventry Health Care) PPO (PPO)
- HealthyBlue 2.0
- HealthyBlue Advantage
- LocalPlus
- MultiPlan
- MultiPlan PPO (PPO)
- Open Access Plus
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Vijay Patel 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:
- Bone Cancer: Bone cancer is a serious but treatable condition where cancer cells develop in the bones, and treatment focuses on pain management and preserving mobility to maintain independence.
- Tonsil Cancer: If diagnosed with tonsil cancer, various treatments are available to target the cancer cells, potentially improving your quality of life and allowing you to continue enjoying your daily activities.
- Limb Pain: Persistent limb pain can be a symptom of an underlying condition. Consulting your doctor will help determine the cause, ensuring you receive the most appropriate treatment and support to stay comfortable and mobile.
- Gastroptosis: While a lower-than-normal stomach position (gastroptosis) can sometimes create digestive discomfort, appropriate management, often involving lifestyle choices, can help seniors effectively manage their symptoms and enjoy a better quality of life.
- Ear Disorders: Many older adults develop ear issues that impact their ability to hear family and friends. Fortunately, treatments like hearing aids or medications can often make a big difference in managing these conditions.
- 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.
- Primary Hypercoagulable State: This condition, primary hypercoagulable state, means your blood clots more easily than it should, potentially leading to dangerous complications like strokes or heart attacks; thankfully, appropriate medication can help manage this and keep you healthier.
- Dehydration: Dehydration can make everyday tasks feel more difficult, but by staying well-hydrated and possibly working with your doctor to find the root cause, you can regain strength and easily maintain your daily routines.
- Metastatic Respiratory System Cancer: A diagnosis of metastatic respiratory system cancer means cancer originating in the lungs or breathing tubes has spread elsewhere. Treatment is tailored to help manage symptoms and allow you to live as fully as possible.
- Breast Lump: Breast lumps can be managed effectively, with treatment options tailored to the underlying cause. Early diagnosis and appropriate medical care can significantly impact your comfort and quality of life, allowing you to continue enjoying your daily activities.
- Leukocytopenia: If you have leukocytopenia, it's important to work closely with your doctor to understand what's causing it and to develop a treatment plan that strengthens your immune system and helps you maintain your independence.
- Factor X Deficiency: Factor X deficiency means your body lacks a crucial clotting protein, potentially leading to excessive bleeding; fortunately, regular infusions of Factor X can significantly reduce this risk and improve your overall well-being.
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. Vijay Patel offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Anemia and Iron Deficiency Screening: This screening helps create a personalized care plan by identifying any iron or blood deficiencies, ensuring you receive the right support for optimal well-being.
- Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): An arterial blood gas test helps your doctor understand how well your lungs are working and how your body is managing oxygen and carbon dioxide.
- Biopsy of Breast: A breast biopsy is a procedure where a small tissue sample is taken from the breast to help determine if a lump or abnormality is cancerous.
- 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.
- Cancer Screening: As part of your comprehensive senior care, cancer screenings provide a proactive way to identify and address any cancerous growths before they become serious.
- Care Coordination for Complex Conditions and Procedures: Care coordination creates a personalized plan that addresses all aspects of a senior's health, improving their quality of life and preventing complications.
- 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.
- Erythropoietin Test: To monitor the effectiveness of your treatment for anemia or kidney disease, your doctor may order an erythropoietin test to track your hormone levels over time.
- Liver Biopsy: To create the most effective care plan for your liver health, your doctor may recommend a liver biopsy to diagnose or monitor liver diseases.
- Skin Screenings: Regular skin screenings allow for early diagnosis of skin problems, enabling timely treatment and improving outcomes.
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. Vijay Patel 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:
- With careful pain management and supportive care, a senior was able to resume their beloved hobby of woodworking, a cherished activity that brought them immense joy and a sense of purpose.
- After receiving guidance on managing tonsil cancer, a senior was able to resume their beloved hobby of singing in the choir, a source of joy and connection for them. Their family felt immense relief knowing their loved one was thriving despite the cancer.
- With persistent limb pain effectively managed, a senior couple rediscovered their love of dancing, enjoying weekly ballroom lessons with renewed energy and confidence.
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 (Hematology)
- American Board of Internal Medicine (Medical Oncology)
Here are answers to some common questions about Internal Medicine care with Dr. Vijay Patel:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Dr. Patel's practice specializes in internal medicine, meaning he is a primary care doctor who focuses exclusively on adult health. This expertise makes him well-suited to address the diverse and often complex medical needs that can arise as people age. He's skilled in managing chronic conditions and coordinating care with other specialists, if needed.
- Does Dr. Vijay Patel have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Dr. Patel'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, such as chronic conditions and age-related changes. His team is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for seniors.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Patel's practice believes in a team approach and welcomes the involvement of family members and caregivers, with the patient's permission. Their participation is valuable for ensuring clear communication and support throughout the care process.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Vijay Patel?
- To prepare for your first appointment with Dr. Patel, 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. If you have any questions, please call our office.
- Does the practice accept Medicare?
- Our practice accepts Medicare. To ensure we are in-network with your particular plan, please call the number on your insurance card or contact our billing office for assistance.
- How does Dr. Vijay Patel approach managing type 2 diabetes?
- Dr. Patel's approach to managing type 2 diabetes is comprehensive, focusing on medication management, regular blood sugar monitoring, and crucial lifestyle counseling. This includes personalized dietary recommendations, exercise plans, and detailed foot care instructions to empower patients in effectively controlling their condition.
- How do you manage chronic pain, such as arthritis?
- Dr. Patel'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.
6420 W Newberry Rd Ste 100
Gainesville FL 32605
Phone: (352) 332-3900
Dr. Vijay Patel, 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): 1326260837
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. Vijay Patel 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.