Dr. James Edwards, MD

Dr. James Edwards, MD is a Internal Medicine Physician dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive Internal Medicine care at his clinic in Winter Haven, FL. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), and is a valued partner in preventive health on weprevent.org. Internists are your primary partners in lifelong health, creating comprehensive preventive care plans, coordinating essential screenings, and managing complex adult diseases to ensure your overall wellness and optimal long-term health. He serves Adults (18 years and older) and you should call (863) 293-1191 to confirm if he is currently accepting new patients.

Dr. James Edwards, MD is an internist in Winter Haven, FL with over 50 years of experience in the medical field. He earned his medical degree from University Of Florida in 1973, and with over 50 years of dedicated experience in Internal Medicine care, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. Dr. Edwards is committed to collaborative, evidence-based medicine, creating a supportive environment where patients feel empowered to take an active role in their long-term health. He is passionate about helping you understand your body and make informed decisions about your health journey. Dr. James Edwards provides consultations primarily in English.

A key part of the WePrevent mission is building your personalized prevention roadmap. Dr. James Edwards is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on proactive strategies to protect and enhance your long-term health.

By working together, you and Dr. James Edwards can create a clear, actionable plan to address your unique risk factors and health goals.

A proactive approach to health involves understanding and managing potential risks. Dr. James Edwards provides expert care for a range of conditions, focusing on early detection and effective management to support your long-term wellness. Common areas of focus include:

• Anemia: Anemia, a condition marked by a deficiency of red blood cells, can be prevented through regular blood tests and addressing underlying nutritional deficiencies to maintain overall health and energy levels.
• Indigestion: Don't ignore frequent indigestion; it could indicate a need for lifestyle changes or medical attention to avoid future health problems.
• Jaundice: Jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and eyes, can be a sign of underlying liver or gallbladder problems, making early detection through regular checkups crucial for preventing serious complications.
• Sickle Cell Disease: Regular monitoring and proactive treatment for sickle cell disease are crucial for preventing painful crises and long-term organ damage.
• Hyperandrogenism: Hyperandrogenism, an excess of male hormones in women, can lead to serious health problems if left untreated, making regular checkups crucial for early detection and prevention of complications like infertility or heart disease.
• Postthrombotic Syndrome: Early detection and treatment of blood clots are crucial for preventing postthrombotic syndrome, a condition that can lead to chronic leg pain and swelling, significantly impacting quality of life.
• Non-Allergic Asthma: Preventative steps, such as identifying triggers and consistently using prescribed inhalers, can greatly improve quality of life and reduce the severity of non-allergic asthma.

This list highlights some common health concerns and is for informational purposes only. The best way to understand your personal health and create a prevention plan is to schedule a consultation. Accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans are developed based on individual patient evaluations.

Taking proactive steps is central to long-term health. Dr. James Edwards offers a range of key preventive screenings and services designed to provide crucial insights into your health and support your well-being:

• Abscess or Fluid Incision and Drainage: Early detection and treatment of abscesses or fluid build-up, through incision and drainage, helps prevent the spread of infection and potential organ damage.
• Liver Function Test: Take charge of your health with a liver function test; it screens for liver damage and helps prevent serious liver diseases.
• Pulmonary Function Test: To proactively safeguard your lung health, a pulmonary function test measures how well your lungs work, aiding in the early detection of conditions like asthma or COPD.
• Immunization Administration: Regular immunizations strengthen your body's defenses, reducing your risk of contracting contagious diseases.
• Prostate Cancer Screening: Taking a proactive step towards your health, a prostate cancer screening can identify potential issues before they become serious health concerns.
• Diabetes Screening: Don't wait for symptoms to appear; proactive diabetes screening enables early diagnosis and management, improving your quality of life.
• Thyroid Screening: Protecting your long-term health starts with a thyroid screening; this simple test can reveal underlying conditions and pave the way for effective management.
• Arrhythmia Screening: Proactive arrhythmia screening can identify potential heart rhythm problems before you experience symptoms, paving the way for better heart health.
• Cardiovascular Stress Test: To help prevent a heart attack or stroke, a cardiovascular stress test is a valuable tool for assessing your heart's response to exertion and identifying any hidden risks.
• Anemia and Iron Deficiency Screening: Take charge of your health with an anemia and iron deficiency screening; early detection can prevent fatigue, weakness, and other debilitating symptoms.
• Electrocardiogram (EKG): Protecting yourself from serious heart problems begins with an EKG; this screening helps identify potential risks and allows for early diagnosis and treatment.
• Fecal Occult Blood Test for Colorectal Cancer: Protecting your future, a fecal occult blood test is a crucial preventive measure that can identify colorectal cancer at its earliest, most treatable stages.

Service availability can change, and not all services listed may be appropriate for every patient. For a comprehensive understanding of all available services and to create your personalized screening plan, please schedule a consultation.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Internal Medicine Physicians in Florida.

Dr. James Edwards is dedicated to partnering with Caregivers to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how a proactive approach can make a tangible difference in a Adult Patient's life:

• By scheduling regular blood tests and addressing nutritional needs, a patient proactively managed their anemia, maintaining consistent energy levels and overall well-being. This proactive approach ensured they could confidently participate in daily activities without limitations.
• By identifying and addressing the underlying causes of frequent indigestion, a patient significantly reduced discomfort and avoided potential long-term health issues, leading to a healthier and more comfortable lifestyle.
• By attending regular checkups and discussing any unusual symptoms, a patient identified potential liver issues early, significantly reducing the risk of serious complications from jaundice. This proactive approach allowed them to maintain a healthier, more confident lifestyle.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results may vary and depend on many factors specific to each patient. He will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.

Here are answers to some common questions about proactive Internal Medicine care with Dr. James Edwards:

What is an Internist, and how are they different from a Family Physician?

An internist, like Dr. Edwards, is a primary care doctor specializing in adult health. While family physicians treat patients of all ages, internists have extensive training in diagnosing and managing the various medical conditions affecting adults.

How does Dr. James Edwards manage patients with multiple chronic conditions?

Dr. Edwards excels at managing patients with multiple chronic conditions. He acts as the quarterback of your healthcare team, coordinating care with specialists, optimizing medication regimens, and focusing on your overall well-being. This comprehensive approach ensures that all aspects of your health are addressed.

What is your approach to preventive care for adults?

Dr. Edwards' approach to preventive care emphasizes a personalized, evidence-based plan tailored to each patient's individual needs and risk factors. This includes key screenings for high blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, and cancers (colorectal, breast, prostate), working in partnership with patients to minimize health risks and promote healthy aging.

Does Dr. James Edwards provide care for patients in the hospital?

Dr. Edwards and our team provide comprehensive care for patients admitted to the hospital. We work closely with our hospitalist colleagues to ensure smooth transitions and continuity of care throughout your hospital stay. This collaboration ensures your needs are met effectively from admission through discharge.

What is the role of an Internist in managing autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus?

Dr. Edwards plays a central role in managing autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, coordinating overall health. While a rheumatologist may focus on specialized medications, Dr. Edwards manages the other health aspects potentially affected, such as heart health, kidney function, and bone density, ensuring comprehensive care.

Can you help manage my type 2 diabetes?

Yes, we can help manage your type 2 diabetes. Our comprehensive approach includes regular A1c monitoring, prescribing oral medications or insulin as needed, and counseling on diet and exercise to prevent long-term complications affecting your eyes, kidneys, and nerves.

I was told I have 'fatty liver disease.' What does that mean?

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is when fat builds up in your liver, often linked to conditions like obesity and diabetes. Dr. Edwards can help you understand lifestyle changes, such as weight loss and dietary modifications, to prevent further liver damage.

What is COPD, and how is it managed?

COPD, or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, is a common lung disease, often linked to smoking, that makes breathing difficult. Management focuses on preventing flare-ups with inhaler medications, providing supplemental oxygen when needed, and encouraging pulmonary rehabilitation programs.

500 E Central Ave
Winter Haven FL 33880
Phone: (863) 293-1191

Dr. James Edwards, 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): 1275539298

Registration can typically be verified through The Florida Board of Medicine website or by direct inquiry.

The information on this profile, provided by weprevent.org, is for general informational purposes and to help you connect with preventive health partners. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the physician named. Internal Medicine Physicians like Dr. James Edwards are skilled in helping patients create proactive health plans. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. It is always recommended to maintain open communication with your internal medicine physician about all aspects of your health and your personalized prevention plan.