Dr. Richard Whitten, MD

Dr. Richard Whitten, MD is a Family Medicine physician dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive care at Lakeside Occupational MDCN 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 family medicine doctor is your primary partner in lifelong health, crafting personalized preventive care plans, coordinating essential screenings, and managing your overall wellness journey from childhood to senior years. He serves all ages, from newborns to seniors, and is currently welcoming new patients to embark on this proactive health journey. Please call (727) 525-0006 to schedule.

Dr. Richard Whitten, MD is a family medicine physician in Saint Petersburg, FL with over 15 years of experience in the medical field. He earned his medical degree from Augusta University Medical College of Georgia in 2005. With this wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care, he partners with patients and their families to create personalized plans for optimal health. His approach to care is collaborative and evidence-based, fostering a supportive environment where patients feel empowered to take an active role in their long-term health. Dr. Whitten is accepting new patients and provides consultations primarily in English.

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

• Bunion: Addressing bunions early through conservative treatments like orthotics and pain management can prevent further joint damage, preserving mobility and overall foot health.
• Infections:: Early detection and treatment of infections are crucial for preventing serious complications and long-term health problems.
• Diabetes: Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and eating a balanced diet are key components of preventing type 2 diabetes and managing blood sugar effectively.
• Ankle Injury: Early detection and treatment of ankle injuries, even seemingly minor sprains, are crucial for preventing lasting damage and ensuring continued healthy activity.
• Serotonin Syndrome: Preventing serotonin syndrome involves careful medication management and open communication with your doctor about all the medicines you're taking to avoid potentially life-threatening interactions.
• Patellar Disorders: Regular physical activity and proper footwear choices are crucial in reducing the risk factors associated with patellar disorders and maintaining healthy knees.
• Infertility: Proactive management of fertility concerns through lifestyle choices and medical guidance can lead to better reproductive health outcomes.

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

• Detoxification Evaluation: This evaluation helps screen for potential heavy metal exposure or other toxin accumulation that may be affecting your energy levels, organ function, or overall health.
• Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response Test: Early detection of hearing problems in infants and children is crucial, and the BAER test offers a non-invasive way to identify and address hearing impairments before they impact development.
• Acne Scar Removal: Don't let acne scars affect your self-esteem; talk to your doctor about available treatments and create a personalized plan to improve your skin.
• Arterial Duplex Ultrasound: An arterial duplex ultrasound is a painless test that uses sound waves to check the blood flow in your arteries, helping to detect blockages early and prevent serious health problems like heart attack and stroke.
• Insulin Pump Therapy: Taking control of your diabetes with an insulin pump helps prevent serious health issues like nerve damage, eye problems, and kidney disease.
• Preventive Care: Preventive care helps you stay healthy by proactively identifying potential health problems through screenings and checkups, allowing for early intervention and prevention.
• Cardiac Doppler: Protecting your heart health starts with proactive screenings. A cardiac Doppler can identify potential issues like blockages or valve problems, leading to prompt treatment.

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 Family Medicine in Florida.

Dr. Richard Whitten is dedicated to partnering with Family members and 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 addressing early bunion symptoms with orthotics and pain management, a patient maintained comfortable foot health and avoided more invasive procedures, preserving their mobility.
• By understanding infection prevention strategies and practicing good hygiene, a family significantly reduced their risk of illness, enjoying peace of mind knowing they were proactively managing their health.

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 Family Medicine care with Dr. Richard Whitten:

What is a Family Physician, and how are they different from other doctors?

A family physician is a primary care doctor who provides comprehensive healthcare for all ages, from newborns to seniors. We focus on treating the whole person, managing the health of the entire family, and coordinating all aspects of a patient's care, emphasizing prevention.

What should I expect during an annual physical or wellness exam?

Your annual physical with Dr. Whitten is a key opportunity to build a partnership with us. It includes a review of your health history, a physical exam, and a discussion about personalized preventive screenings and lifestyle goals.

Why is it important to have a primary care physician, even if I'm healthy?

Having a primary care physician, like Dr. Richard Whitten, is a long-term investment in your health. Establishing a relationship when you're healthy provides a crucial baseline, ensuring someone knows your history and can provide faster, more personalized care if needed. This also helps you stay on track with preventive care to maintain your well-being.

How do you handle referrals to specialists?

Dr. Whitten acts as the quarterback of your healthcare team. When a specialist is needed, he will not only make the referral, but also coordinate with the specialist to ensure a smooth transition and seamless integration of all aspects of your care.

What blood tests are typically included in a routine check-up?

Routine blood tests are personalized. Common screening tests might include a complete blood count, cholesterol panel, and blood sugar to check for anemia, heart disease risk, and diabetes. Dr. Whitten will only order tests that are appropriate for your age and risk factors.

Do you provide sports physicals for children or teens?

Yes, Dr. Whitten and our team routinely perform sports physicals for children and teens. It's more than just a form; we assess overall health, identify potential risks, and ensure a safe playing environment.

What vaccinations do I need as an adult?

Adult vaccination needs vary based on factors like age and health conditions. Common examples include annual flu shots, tetanus boosters (Tdap), and vaccines for shingles or pneumonia. Dr. Whitten's office will ensure you're up-to-date with the latest vaccination recommendations.

Do you provide care for children and infants?

Yes, Dr. Whitten is fully equipped to care for children and infants, providing well-child check-ups, developmental screenings, and childhood immunizations. Having one doctor for the whole family makes care convenient and coordinated.

Lakeside Occupational MDCN
3745 33rd St N
Saint Petersburg FL 33713
Phone: (727) 525-0006

Dr. Richard Whitten, 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): 1154453132

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. Family Medicine like Dr. Richard Whitten 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 family medicine about all aspects of your health and your personalized prevention plan.