Julie Gavin, PA-C is a Family Medicine Physician Assistant specializing in the comprehensive care of older adults. As a trusted partner in senior health featured on infoaging.org, she practices at AdventHealth Medical Group Heart Care at Tampa in Brandon, FL, and is dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive Family Medicine care for adults, with a focus on those aging into and throughout their senior years. She is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). Dr. Julie PA-C is committed to creating a supportive environment for patients and their families, fostering a partnership where healthcare decisions are shared and empowering.
Your family doctor is your primary partner in managing your health throughout your senior years, coordinating complex care, managing chronic conditions, and focusing on your overall well-being and independence to help you thrive. Dr. Julie PA-C, a family medicine specialist in Brandon, FL, is accepting new patients. She completed rigorous medical training from recognized institutions and is deeply committed to collaborative, evidence-based medicine. Dr. Julie PA-C provides consultations primarily in English and can be reached at (813) 684-5255 to schedule an appointment.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Julie PA-C is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Julie PA-C acts as a compassionate and dedicated partner in your senior health journey. She provides comprehensive family medicine care, focusing on coordinating complex care, managing chronic conditions, and prioritizing your overall well-being and independence. Her approach emphasizes understanding your personal goals and creating a personalized plan to maximize your comfort and quality of life.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Julie PA-C can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Aetna
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida
Cigna
Humana
Medicare
Also Accepts These Carriers
- United Healthcare
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Julie PA-C 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:
- Osteoporosis: As we age, our bones can lose density, leading to osteoporosis, a condition that increases the risk of fractures; regular checkups and lifestyle changes can help maintain bone health and prevent serious injuries.
- Asthma: Managing asthma effectively means working closely with your doctor to create a personalized plan that controls your symptoms, allowing you to participate in the activities you love.
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs): If you're sexually active, understanding STDs and getting regular checkups is key; these infections can be treated effectively with medication, protecting your health and well-being at any age.
- Injuries: Injury prevention strategies, like home modifications and regular exercise, are crucial for maintaining independence and reducing the risk of falls and other injuries among seniors.
- Depression: Experiencing changes in sleep, appetite, or energy levels alongside persistent sadness or low mood may indicate depression, a condition effectively treated with various approaches designed to restore your vitality and enhance your quality of life.
- Depressive Disorders: Feeling persistently down or hopeless is a sign of depression, a treatable condition often managed with medication, therapy, or a combination of both, significantly improving mood, energy, and overall well-being.
- Heart Disease: While heart disease can be concerning, effective management plans tailored to your specific needs can help you stay healthy and active, improving your ability to enjoy your favorite activities and maintain your independence.
- Hypertension: If you have hypertension (high blood pressure), it's vital to work with your doctor to keep it under control. Regular blood pressure checks and the right medications can help prevent serious health problems and maintain your quality of life.
- Allergies: Allergies, whether seasonal or related to specific substances, can be disruptive, but with a proper diagnosis and personalized plan from your doctor, you can minimize symptoms and maintain your independence.
- COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease): COPD is a lung disease that makes it hard to breathe, but with the right treatment plan, including medication and breathing exercises, you can manage your symptoms and enjoy a more active life.
- Arthritis: Arthritis involves inflammation in the joints, leading to discomfort and reduced movement; treatment focuses on pain relief and preserving your ability to perform daily tasks.
- Diabetes: Diabetes is a condition where your body doesn't use sugar (glucose) properly, leading to high blood sugar levels, but with careful management, you can maintain a healthy and fulfilling life.
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. Julie PA-C offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Abscess Incision and Drainage: Incision and drainage is a treatment option for skin abscesses, helping your doctor effectively manage the infection and improve your comfort in your senior years.
- Breast Exam: Regular breast exams are important for managing your breast health and allowing for early intervention if anything concerning is found.
- Electrocardiogram (EKG): As part of your comprehensive care plan, an EKG provides valuable insights into your heart's function, aiding in early detection of heart conditions and the prevention of serious complications.
- Gynecologic Cancer Screening: Including gynecologic cancer screenings in your routine healthcare plan helps ensure early detection and management, leading to better health outcomes and a more comfortable aging experience.
- Pap Smear: As part of your routine check-up, a Pap smear aids in the early detection of cervical cancer, contributing to better health outcomes.
- Pelvic Exams: As part of your ongoing care, a pelvic exam empowers you and your doctor to proactively address potential health problems, thereby enhancing your quality of life.
- Physical Examination: A physical exam helps your doctor determine the most appropriate course of treatment and assess the effectiveness of your current medication or therapy, optimizing your health outcomes.
- Urinalysis: A urinalysis is a simple test that checks your urine for signs of infection, kidney problems, or other health issues, helping your doctor create a personalized 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 Family Medicine in Florida.
Dr. Julie PA-C 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:
- Following regular checkups and lifestyle adjustments guided by a family medicine provider, a senior woman regained her confidence in daily activities, feeling more secure in her home environment and able to continue her beloved hobby of gardening.
- With a personalized asthma management plan, a senior couple regained the energy to enjoy their daily walks in the park, a cherished activity they had been unable to do for months.
- Knowing they could effectively manage their sexually transmitted infection, a couple felt empowered to resume their active social life, enjoying time together 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)
Here are answers to some common questions about Family Medicine care with Dr. Julie PA-C:
- How is a Family Physician suited to care for seniors?
- Dr. Julie PA-C and our practice are uniquely suited to care for seniors because we often care for patients across their entire lifespan. This gives us a deep understanding of their health history and allows us to be trusted primary care partners, experts in managing chronic conditions and coordinating all aspects of a senior's care.
- What happens during an annual wellness visit for a senior?
- During your annual wellness visit with Dr. Julie PA-C, we'll partner to review your health goals. This includes a medication review, physical exam, memory and mobility check, and a discussion about personalized preventive screenings, such as bone density or cancer screenings.
- How should I prepare for my appointment to make the most of our time?
- To make the most of your appointment with Dr. Julie PA-C, please write down your top health questions, bring a complete list of all medications (including over-the-counter items), and be prepared to discuss any new symptoms, no matter how minor they seem.
- Can family members or caregivers be involved in my care?
- Absolutely. With your permission, we encourage family members and caregivers to be involved in your care. This team approach helps ensure clear communication and provides the best possible support for your health.
- How do you help manage multiple chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease?
- Dr. Julie PA-C works with you as a partner to manage your chronic conditions. We create a personalized plan that includes regular monitoring, medication management, and lifestyle counseling to help prevent complications and maintain your well-being.
- Do you perform minor skin procedures, like removing a skin tag or mole?
- Dr. Julie PA-C and our staff can often perform minor skin procedures like removing skin tags or suspicious moles in the office. We can also freeze precancerous spots (actinic keratosis), making it convenient for you to get these procedures taken care of without needing a referral to a specialist.
- What is the practice's approach to fall prevention?
- Fall prevention is a top priority for our practice. Dr. Julie PA-C can conduct a fall risk assessment, review medications that may contribute to dizziness, and recommend physical therapy or home safety evaluations to help seniors stay safe and independent.
- Can you help manage joint pain from arthritis?
- Yes, Dr. Julie PA-C and our practice are happy to help manage joint pain from arthritis. We are often the first point of contact for arthritis management and can provide advice on safe exercises, anti-inflammatory medications, and sometimes joint injections to improve mobility and reduce pain.
AdventHealth Medical Group Heart Care at Tampa
1218 Millennium Pkwy
Brandon FL 33511
Phone: (813) 684-5255
Julie Gavin, PA-C 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): 1548508526
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. Family Medicine like Dr. Julie PA-C 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.