Best Geriatric Doctors in Lakeland
Updated September 19, 2024
Introduction to Geriatrics in Lakeland, Florida
Definition of Geriatric Medicine
Geriatric medicine is a specialized field of healthcare dedicated to addressing the unique medical needs of older adults. It encompasses a comprehensive approach to health management, focusing on the complexities that often arise with advancing age.
Geriatricians are trained to manage multiple chronic conditions simultaneously, emphasizing the maintenance and improvement of quality of life for seniors.
Importance of Geriatric Care in Lakeland
Lakeland, Florida, like many parts of the state, has a significant and growing elderly population. This demographic shift underscores the importance of specialized geriatric care in the area.
Seniors often face distinct health challenges that require specialized attention. These may include multiple chronic conditions, cognitive changes, and increased susceptibility to certain illnesses.
Overview of Geriatric Services Available in Lakeland
Lakeland offers a range of geriatric care providers, including board-certified geriatricians, internal medicine specialists with geriatric focus, and family medicine practitioners with expertise in elder care.
Services typically include comprehensive health assessments, management of chronic conditions, medication reviews, cognitive evaluations, and coordination of care across multiple specialties.
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List of Geriatric Doctors in Lakeland
American Board of Internal Medicine
University of Florida (Fellowship Hospital, 2003)
ST BARNABAS HOSPITAL (Residency Hospital, 2001)
Damascus University (Medical School, 1996)
English
Arabic
Geriatric Medicine
Hospice & Palliative Medicine
Internal Medicine
Selecting a Geriatric Doctor in Lakeland
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Geriatrician
Board certifications and specializations
- Review the American Board of Internal Medicine certifications
- Look for additional specializations such as Hospice & Palliative Medicine
Years of experience and educational background
- Check the medical school and residency information
- Consider doctors with fellowships in Geriatric Medicine
Patient reviews and ratings
- Examine star ratings and number of reviews
- Read detailed patient feedback when available
Language capabilities
- Consider doctors who speak languages relevant to the patient
- Note multilingual doctors like Dr. Alkhalil (English, Arabic) and Dr. Gonzalez Pimentel (English, Spanish)
Resources for Finding Geriatric Doctors in Lakeland
Online directories and review platforms
- Utilize Healthgrades for comprehensive doctor profiles
- Cross-reference with other reputable medical review sites
Local medical associations
- Contact the Polk County Medical Association for recommendations
- Seek advice from Florida chapter of the American Geriatrics Society
Hospital affiliations
- Check with Lakeland Regional Health for affiliated geriatricians
- Inquire at Watson Clinic for their geriatric specialists
Top-Rated Geriatric Doctors in Lakeland
Dr. Chadi Alkhalil
Highest-rated geriatrician
- 5.0 star rating based on 7 reviews
- Board-certified in Internal Medicine
Specializations
- Geriatric Medicine
- Hospice & Palliative Medicine
- Internal Medicine
Additional Information
- Multilingual: English and Arabic
- Contact: (863) 680-7000
Dr. Leiden Gonzalez Pimentel
Rating and Specialization
- 5.0 star rating (based on 1 review)
- Specializes in Geriatric Medicine
Languages
- Multilingual: English and Spanish
Contact Information
- Phone: (863) 644-3585
Dr. Cara Nelson-James
Rating and Certification
- 4.1 star rating based on 12 reviews
- Board-certified by the American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians
Specializations
- Family Medicine
- Geriatric Medicine
Contact Information
- Phone: (866) 234-8534
Dr. Yerania Rodriguez Navedo
Rating and Certification
- 4.1 star rating based on 9 reviews
- Board-certified in Internal Medicine
Specializations
- Internal Medicine
- Geriatric Medicine
- Rheumatology
Contact Information
- Phone: (863) 660-4747
Dr. Glenn Zaide
Rating and Certification
- 3.0 star rating based on 4 reviews
- Board-certified in Internal Medicine
Specializations
- Geriatric Medicine
- Internal Medicine
Contact Information
- Phone: (863) 284-5000
Additional Resources for Geriatric Care in Lakeland
Local Senior Health Centers and Clinics
Specialized Facilities
- Lakeland Regional Health
- Watson Clinic
Services Offered
- Comprehensive geriatric assessments
- Chronic disease management
- Memory care services
Support Groups and Community Programs
Alzheimer's and Dementia Support
- Alzheimer's Association - Greater Florida Chapter
- Dementia Care and Cure Initiative (DCCI) - Polk County
Senior Wellness Programs
- Lakeland Parks and Recreation Senior Programs
- Polk Senior Games
Transportation Services for Elderly Patients
Medical Transport Options
- Lakeland Area Mass Transit District (Citrus Connection)
- Polk County Transportation Disadvantaged Program
Assistance Programs
- Elder Point Ministries Transportation Assistance
- Volunteers in Service to the Elderly (VISTE)