Dr. Scott Hankinson, MD

Dr. Scott Hankinson, MD is an Obstetrics and Gynecology specialist practicing at AdventHealth Medical Group Obstetrics & Gynecology at Port Charlotte in Port Charlotte, FL. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive care, practicing under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). Your OB/GYN is your primary partner in preventive health, collaborating with you to create a long-term wellness plan, coordinate essential screenings, and manage your overall health, ensuring you thrive for years to come. He serves all ages of women, from adolescence through menopause and beyond, and is currently welcoming new patients to begin their proactive health journey. Call (863) 315-8551 to schedule.

Dr. Scott Hankinson, a board-certified OB/GYN with more than 30 years of experience, brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. He earned his medical degree from the University of Minnesota Medical School in 1989 and completed his residency training in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Christiana Care Health Servs Inc in 1994. His practice encompasses a wide range of care, from annual checkups and labor and delivery to the treatment of menopausal symptoms and gynecological surgery. Dr. Hankinson has a special interest in treating patients holistically, with a strong focus on nutrition, and 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 dedicated to the comprehensive medical care of women of all ages. Dr. Hankinson provides consultations primarily in English.

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

• Menopausal and Postmenopausal Disorders: Understanding and managing menopausal and postmenopausal disorders early helps prevent long-term health problems like osteoporosis and heart disease.
• Multiple Gestation: Preventive care for multiple gestation pregnancies includes proactive monitoring and management of potential complications like preeclampsia or premature labor, leading to better outcomes.
• Hypertension: Hypertension is a risk factor for many health issues, so making healthy lifestyle choices and monitoring your blood pressure helps lower your chances of developing them.
• Ovarian Cysts: Preventive care, including routine pelvic exams and ultrasounds, allows for the early detection and management of ovarian cysts, reducing the risk of long-term health problems.
• Coagulation Defects in Pregnancy and Postpartum: Regular checkups and proactive management of clotting issues are crucial for a healthy pregnancy and postpartum recovery.
• Cervical Polyps: Cervical polyps are small, benign growths on the cervix that are often discovered during routine pelvic exams, highlighting the importance of regular checkups for early detection and prevention of potential complications.
• Intrauterine Growth Restriction: Preventing complications associated with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) starts with consistent prenatal care, enabling early diagnosis and allowing healthcare providers to create a tailored management plan.
• Encounters for Normal Pregnancies: Regular checkups during a healthy pregnancy help identify potential problems early, allowing for timely intervention and a safer delivery.
• Tubal Pregnancy: Managing existing health conditions, like pelvic inflammatory disease, can reduce your chances of developing a tubal pregnancy and help ensure a healthy pregnancy in the future.
• Female Infertility: Addressing infertility early through lifestyle changes, medical care, and reproductive support can reduce both the emotional and financial strain associated with prolonged treatment.
• Preeclampsia: Regular prenatal visits allow healthcare providers to monitor for signs of preeclampsia, enabling timely interventions to prevent severe complications such as seizures or premature birth.
• Ectopic Pregnancy: An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, often causing severe complications if not detected and treated early, highlighting the importance of regular prenatal care.

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

• Fetal Cardiac Screening: Fetal cardiac screening uses ultrasound to check your baby's heart development and identify potential problems early in pregnancy.
• Hepatitis B Virus Screening: A simple blood test, Hepatitis B screening helps detect the virus early, allowing for prompt treatment and preventing serious liver damage.
• Myomectomy: For women with symptomatic fibroids, a myomectomy offers surgical removal, addressing pain, bleeding, and potentially improving chances of future pregnancy.
• Amniocentesis: To proactively assess your baby's health, amniocentesis involves a small sample of amniotic fluid being taken to screen for chromosomal conditions and certain genetic defects.
• Intrauterine Device (IUD) Placement: Proactively manage your family planning by choosing IUD placement, a convenient and reliable form of contraception that can last for years.
• Vaginal Delivery and VBAC: Planning your delivery method, whether vaginal delivery or a VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean), empowers you to make informed choices for a safe and healthy birth experience.
• Colposcopy: Colposcopy is a simple procedure that uses a special magnifying tool to examine your cervix for any abnormal cells that could lead to cervical cancer.
• Fetal Ultrasound: Empower yourself with knowledge about your baby's health with a fetal ultrasound; it's a key part of prenatal care, helping identify any concerns and allowing for proactive management.
• C-Section: Understanding the circumstances that may necessitate a C-section, like fetal distress or complications during labor, allows for proactive preparation and informed decision-making.
• Trichomoniasis Screening: Regular trichomoniasis screenings are important for preventing long-term health problems associated with this common infection, such as pelvic inflammatory disease.
• Obstetric Ultrasound: An obstetric ultrasound is a crucial tool in ensuring a healthy pregnancy for both you and your baby, offering valuable insights into your baby's health and development from the earliest stages.
• Hysterectomy: In cases of severe uterine prolapse or other pelvic organ prolapse conditions, a hysterectomy can be part of a comprehensive treatment plan to restore pelvic support and alleviate symptoms.

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 Obstetrics and Gynecology in Florida.

Dr. Scott Hankinson is dedicated to partnering with women and their families to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how a proactive approach can make a tangible difference in a Woman's life:

• By proactively discussing her changing health needs with her healthcare provider, a patient gained valuable insights into managing menopausal symptoms and reducing her risk of future health issues, promoting a healthier and more comfortable transition.
• By diligently following a proactive monitoring plan, a family experienced peace of mind throughout their pregnancy, knowing potential complications were being addressed early on. This proactive approach significantly reduced the risk of complications associated with a multiple gestation pregnancy.

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 Obstetrics and Gynecology care with Dr. Scott Hankinson:

What can I expect during my first visit with Dr. Scott Hankinson?

Your first visit with Dr. Hankinson is designed to be a collaborative partnership-building session. We will review your detailed health history, discuss your health goals and concerns, and create a personalized plan for future screenings. This is a safe and confidential space to ask any questions you may have.

How often do I need a Pap smear and HPV test?

Guidelines for Pap smears and HPV tests vary based on age and risk factors. Dr. Hankinson follows the latest evidence-based recommendations and will create a personalized screening schedule for you. This ensures early detection of any potential cervical changes.

What kind of topics should I bring up during my annual wellness exam?

During your annual wellness exam, feel free to discuss any concerns or questions you may have, including your menstrual cycle, sexual health, contraceptive needs, future pregnancy plans, and any changes in your breast or pelvic health. No question is off-limits; we are here to support your well-being.

I'm concerned about STIs. What screenings are available?

We understand your concern about STIs. Confidential screenings are available for chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV, and syphilis. Dr. Hankinson can recommend the appropriate tests based on your individual situation.

How do I perform a breast self-exam, and how often should I do it?

The goal of a breast self-exam is breast self-awareness—knowing what's normal for your body. Perform it monthly to recognize any changes like new lumps or skin changes. It's a supplement to, not a replacement for, clinical exams by Dr. Hankinson and mammograms.

What are uterine fibroids and should I be concerned?

Uterine fibroids are very common, non-cancerous growths in the uterus. They are often asymptomatic, but can sometimes cause heavy bleeding or pain. Dr. Hankinson can help monitor them and discuss treatment options if they become problematic.

What is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)?

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition that can cause irregular periods, acne, and excess hair growth, and may impact fertility. Dr. Hankinson can help with symptom management and long-term health planning.

When should I be concerned about an ovarian cyst?

Most ovarian cysts are benign and resolve spontaneously. However, if you experience severe, persistent pain, bloating, or pressure, please contact Dr. Hankinson's office. He will use tools like ultrasound to evaluate the cyst and determine the best course of action.

AdventHealth Medical Group Obstetrics & Gynecology at Port Charlotte
2380 Harbor Blvd
Port Charlotte FL 33952
Phone: (863) 315-8551

Dr. Scott Hankinson, 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): 1386610178

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. Obstetrics and Gynecology like Dr. Scott Hankinson 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 obstetrics and gynecology about all aspects of your health and your personalized prevention plan.