Dr. Richard Phillips, MD

Dr. Richard Phillips, MD is a Gastroenterology specialist practicing at his clinic in Miami Beach, FL, dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive Gastrointestinal care. He is a registered member of The Florida Board of Medicine, practicing under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). Your gastroenterologist is your primary partner in lifelong digestive health, creating personalized plans for prevention, coordinating crucial screenings, and managing the wellness of your entire digestive system—from esophagus to liver—to keep you feeling your best for years to come. He serves all ages and is currently welcoming new patients to begin their proactive health journey. Call (305) 674-2240 to schedule.

Dr. Richard Phillips, MD is a gastroenterologist in Miami Beach, FL, with over 45 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from State University of New York Downstate Health Sciences University College of Medicine in 1978. With this extensive experience, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. He is Board Certified in Gastroenterology by the American Board of Internal Medicine, and Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Dr. Phillips is committed to collaborative, evidence-based medicine, fostering a supportive environment where patients feel empowered to take an active role in their long-term health. He provides consultations primarily in English.

A key part of the WePrevent mission is building your personalized prevention roadmap. Dr. Richard Phillips 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. Richard Phillips 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. Richard Phillips 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:

• Dysphagia: Dysphagia can be a warning sign of various esophageal or other digestive disorders. Regular screenings and awareness can help detect the condition early, leading to better health outcomes and preventing severe consequences.
• Gastritis: Addressing risk factors like H. pylori infection and long-term NSAID use can significantly reduce your chances of developing gastritis and maintain your overall digestive well-being.
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): GERD, or acid reflux, can be managed through lifestyle changes and medication to prevent serious complications like esophageal damage and cancer.
• Gastroparesis: Gastroparesis is a condition where your stomach empties food too slowly, and understanding its early warning signs can help prevent serious complications like malnutrition and dehydration.
• Indigestion: Managing indigestion effectively prevents discomfort and potential complications such as ulcers or heartburn, promoting the long-term health of your entire digestive system.
• Vomiting Disorders: Recurring vomiting episodes can disrupt nutrient absorption, impacting your liver and pancreas; proactive care is key to preventing these issues.
• Hepatitis B: Hepatitis B is a serious liver infection that can be prevented through vaccination, protecting you from long-term liver damage and cancer.

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. Richard Phillips offers a range of key preventive screenings and services designed to provide crucial insights into your health and support your well-being:

• Colon Cancer Screening: Protecting your future starts with a colon cancer screening, which identifies abnormalities in your colon that can lead to cancer.
• Colorectal Cancer Screening: Early detection is key! Colorectal cancer screening allows for the identification and removal of polyps, often preventing colorectal cancer before symptoms arise.
• Liver Function Test: Early detection is vital for liver health. A liver function test provides valuable insights into your liver's function, facilitating early diagnosis and treatment of potential issues.
• pH Probe: A pH probe helps your doctor measure the acid levels in your esophagus to detect and prevent conditions like GERD and Barrett's esophagus.
• Screening Colonoscopy: Protecting your future health starts with a screening colonoscopy, a simple yet powerful tool for early detection of colon cancer and other digestive issues.
• Wireless pH Testing: This convenient test involves a small sensor that accurately monitors your esophageal pH over time, enabling your doctor to accurately diagnose and effectively manage acid reflux or other esophageal conditions.
• CRH Hemorrhoid Banding: CRH Hemorrhoid Banding offers a proactive solution for managing hemorrhoids, improving quality of life and preventing further issues.

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 Gastroenterology in Florida.

Dr. Richard Phillips 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 Patient's life:

• By scheduling regular screenings and following a personalized plan, a patient proactively managed potential dysphagia concerns, gaining peace of mind and reducing the risk of future complications.
• By addressing potential risk factors like H. pylori infection, a patient proactively reduced their chances of developing gastritis, enjoying a healthier digestive system and greater peace of mind.
• By making dietary adjustments and incorporating regular relaxation techniques, a patient effectively managed their GERD symptoms, preventing long-term complications and improving their overall quality of life.

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 Gastrointestinal care with Dr. Richard Phillips:

What is a Gastroenterologist?

A gastroenterologist is a specialist doctor who is expertly trained in the health of your digestive system, including your esophagus, stomach, intestines, colon, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. They are experts in diagnosing and treating conditions, and also perform preventive screenings like colonoscopies.

When should I get my first screening colonoscopy?

For average-risk individuals, routine screening colonoscopies are now recommended to begin at age 45. However, individuals with a family history of colon cancer or other risk factors may need to start earlier. Dr. Phillips will determine the best, personalized screening schedule for you.

What are some common signs of liver problems I should watch for?

Common signs of liver problems include jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), persistent fatigue, abdominal swelling, and unexplained dark urine. If you experience any of these symptoms, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Richard Phillips for a thorough evaluation.

Is the preparation for a colonoscopy difficult?

Many patients have concerns about colonoscopy preparation, but modern prep solutions are much easier to tolerate than before. A clean colon is essential for a thorough exam, and the one-day prep is a small investment in your long-term health.

What are gallstones?

Gallstones are small, hard deposits that can form in the gallbladder. Many people have them without any problems. They only become a concern if they cause blockages, leading to pain, and Dr. Phillips can help diagnose this issue.

What are colon polyps, and are they dangerous?

Colon polyps are small, non-cancerous growths in the colon. Some types can potentially develop into cancer over time. A colonoscopy is a crucial procedure to find and remove these polyps before they become cancerous, thus preventing the disease.

What is Celiac Disease?

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder where eating gluten, a protein found in wheat, triggers damage to the small intestine. It's different from a simple gluten sensitivity, and requires a proper diagnosis from a gastroenterologist before starting a gluten-free diet.

What is a capsule endoscopy?

A capsule endoscopy is a modern, non-invasive way to examine the small intestine, an area difficult to reach with traditional scopes. The patient simply swallows a small, pill-sized camera, which takes thousands of pictures as it travels through their digestive tract.

4300 Alton Rd
Miami Beach FL 33140
Phone: (305) 674-2240

Dr. Richard Phillips, 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): 1689620403

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. Gastroenterology like Dr. Richard Phillips 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 gastroenterology about all aspects of your health and your personalized prevention plan.