Dr. William Scharpf, DO is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at his clinic in Saint Petersburg, 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 is committed to understanding the unique health challenges of aging and creating a supportive environment where you feel heard and empowered in your healthcare decisions. Primarily older adults (65 and older), but also including younger adults with complex medical needs, are among his patient population. Please call (727) 914-0200 to confirm if he is currently accepting new patients.
Dr. William Scharpf, DO is an internist in Saint Petersburg, FL. He is affiliated with Morton Plant Hospital and St. Joseph's Hospital. He is Board Certified in Neurology by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology, ensuring his expertise in the complexities of senior health. Dr. Scharpf's approach to care is collaborative and evidence-based, drawing on the latest medical advancements to provide the best possible outcomes. He understands the importance of a supportive relationship between physician, patient, and family, fostering a partnership where everyone feels involved and respected. Dr. William Scharpf provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. William Scharpf is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. William Scharpf is a dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care focused on your overall well-being and independence. He meticulously coordinates complex care and manages chronic conditions, always prioritizing your individual needs and goals. His compassionate approach ensures a smooth and supportive experience, enabling you to thrive as you age.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. William Scharpf can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Blue Card High Performance Network HPN (HPN)
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- BlueCard PPO (PPO)
- BlueCare HMO (HMO)
- BlueOptions
- BlueSelect
- CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
- Choice Plus POS (POS)
- Cigna
- Cigna PPO (PPO)
- Florida Blue
- HealthyBlue Advantage
- Navigate HMO (HMO)
- Navigate Plus POS (POS)
- Nexus Open Access
- Open Access Plus
- Options PPO (PPO)
- Seamless HMO (HMO)
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. William Scharpf 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:
- All Headaches (incl. Migraine): Headaches, including migraines, are common but treatable types of head pain that can significantly impact your daily life, and we can work together to find ways to manage them and improve your comfort.
- Cachexia: If you're experiencing unexplained weight loss and fatigue, it could be cachexia, a condition where your body loses muscle mass, but working with your doctor can ease symptoms and improve your quality of life.
- Difficulty With Walking: If you're having trouble walking, understanding the underlying cause is key. Your doctor can assess your needs and recommend appropriate treatment to enhance your comfort and daily life.
- Gait Abnormality: A gait abnormality is a change in the way you walk, which can make it harder to move around safely and comfortably, but with the right assessment and plan, it can be managed and often improved.
- 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.
- Long COVID Disorder: Experiencing ongoing health problems after a COVID-19 infection may mean you have Long COVID. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and improving your overall health, helping you stay as active and engaged as possible.
- Muscle Cramping: Muscle cramps can be a nuisance, but understanding their causes and using simple strategies like stretching and hydration can significantly reduce their frequency and impact on your life.
- Muscle Spasm: That sudden, intense muscle tightening you feel is a spasm. While they can be disruptive, simple home treatments, combined with advice from your doctor, can significantly reduce pain and help you stay active and engaged.
- Tobacco Use Disorder: It's common for older adults to develop a tobacco use disorder, but help is available to quit and reduce the risks to their lungs, heart, and overall health, enhancing their independence and enjoyment of life.
- Urinary Incontinence: If you're struggling with unexpected urine leaks, know that you're not alone. Treatment options are available, ranging from pelvic floor exercises to medication, to help regain control and enhance your quality of life.
- Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common infection of the bladder or kidneys that can cause discomfort like burning during urination and frequent bathroom trips, but with prompt treatment from your doctor, you can feel better quickly and maintain your independence.
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. William Scharpf offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- 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.
- Dementia Evaluation: This assessment helps identify the type and severity of dementia, enabling healthcare providers to recommend appropriate therapies and supportive services.
- Dementia or Depression Screening: Regular dementia and depression screenings are vital in detecting potential problems early, so appropriate treatments can be started promptly.
- 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.
- Evaluation and Treatment of Sleep Disorders: For a comprehensive care plan, evaluating and treating sleep disorders is crucial as it addresses a common problem that impacts many other aspects of health in older adults.
- Evaluation for Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery: To manage your complex neurological symptoms, this evaluation explores the potential benefits of stereotactic or functional neurosurgery.
- Evoked Potential Test: To better understand your health concerns, an evoked potential test helps your doctor assess the function of your nervous system and brain pathways, guiding personalized care strategies.
- Grip and-or Muscle Group Pull Test: The grip and muscle pull test helps your doctor assess your muscle strength and identify potential problems like weakness or injury, leading to a personalized care plan.
- Home Sleep Study: As part of a comprehensive care plan for seniors, a home sleep study can help identify underlying sleep disorders that may contribute to daytime fatigue and other health issues.
- TCD Bubble Test: A transcranial Doppler (TCD) bubble test helps your doctor assess blood flow in your brain to identify potential blockages or problems with your circulatory system, improving your overall care plan.
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. William Scharpf 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 working with a medical professional, a senior was able to reduce the frequency and intensity of their headaches, allowing them to enjoy social gatherings and family events more fully.
- With the guidance of a compassionate internal medicine specialist, a senior regained energy and strength, allowing her to reconnect with her beloved painting hobby.
- With personalized guidance on managing their gait issues, a senior couple felt more secure navigating their home, enjoying evening strolls in the park again.
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 Psychiatry & Neurology (Neurology)
Here are answers to some common questions about Internal Medicine care with Dr. William Scharpf:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Internists, like Dr. Scharpf, are primary care doctors who specialize in adult health. They are experts in the many health concerns that can arise with aging, including managing chronic conditions and coordinating care with other specialists. They focus exclusively on adults, providing comprehensive care throughout their lives.
- Does Dr. William Scharpf have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Dr. Scharpf 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.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Scharpf and our practice strongly believe in a team approach to care, and we welcome the participation of family members and caregivers, with the patient's consent. Their involvement is invaluable in ensuring clear communication and providing the best possible support for our patients.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. William Scharpf?
- Please bring a list of all 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.
- 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 the practice's approach to discussing memory concerns or cognitive changes?
- Dr. Scharpf and our practice prioritize a compassionate and supportive approach to discussing memory concerns. We provide a safe space for these conversations, offer initial cognitive screenings, and can coordinate referrals to specialists if needed.
- What kind of diagnostic tests can be done in your office?
- In our office, we can perform common tests like electrocardiograms (EKGs), blood draws, and urine tests. These help us quickly assess your health and manage conditions without needing a referral to another specialist right away.
2201 Central Ave Ste 200
Saint Petersburg FL 33713
Phone: (727) 914-0200
Dr. William Scharpf, DO 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): 1619471018
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. William Scharpf 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.