Dr. Zachary Kirkland, DO

Dr. Zachary Kirkland, DO is an Internal Medicine Physician practicing at his clinic in Sarasota, FL. He is a dedicated partner in preventive health, committed to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive Internal Medicine care. Registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), Dr. Kirkland understands the critical role of prevention in maintaining optimal health. 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 is affiliated with Sarasota Memorial Hospital Venice and Sarasota Memorial Hospital. Please call (941) 917-9000 to confirm if he is currently accepting new patients.

Dr. Zachary Kirkland, DO is an internist in Sarasota, FL. He earned his medical degree from Lincoln Memorial University Debusk College Of Osteopathic Medicine and is Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. His approach to care is deeply rooted in collaborative, evidence-based medicine, ensuring a supportive environment where patients feel empowered to take an active role in their long-term health. Dr. Kirkland recognizes the importance of a comprehensive approach to health and is committed to fostering a trusting relationship with each patient. He is dedicated to promoting preventive health and providing the best possible care. Dr. Zachary Kirkland provides consultations primarily in English.

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

• Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): Regular checkups and staying hydrated can help detect and manage UTIs, preventing them from becoming chronic or recurring problems.
• Dehydration: Early detection of dehydration is vital, as it can quickly escalate into serious complications, especially in individuals with chronic illnesses.
• Tobacco Use Disorder: Addressing tobacco use disorder through professional help and support systems is essential for preventing long-term health complications and promoting well-being.
• Urinary Incontinence: Early detection of urinary incontinence allows for prompt treatment, preventing more serious problems such as falls, infections, and reduced social participation.
• Rhabdomyolysis: Preventing rhabdomyolysis involves recognizing and addressing risk factors like intense exercise or certain medications; early detection through proactive health management is crucial.
• Adult Failure to Thrive: Adult Failure to Thrive (AFTT) is a complex condition showing as a decline in physical and mental well-being; proactive health screenings can help identify risk factors and implement timely interventions.
• Shortness of Breath: Shortness of breath may indicate an underlying condition, making regular health screenings vital for early detection and timely management to maintain your overall wellness.
• Limb Pain: Don't ignore persistent limb pain; it might be a warning sign of a treatable condition, emphasizing the importance of routine check-ups.
• Acute Upper Respiratory Infection: Practicing good hygiene and getting enough rest can significantly lower your risk of developing acute upper respiratory infections, showing that preventive measures play a crucial role in overall health.
• Venous Embolism and Thrombosis: Managing conditions that increase your risk of blood clots, such as heart disease or cancer, is a key step in preventing potentially life-threatening venous thromboembolic events.
• Constipation: Don't ignore persistent constipation; it could indicate an underlying medical condition. Seeking preventive care helps ensure early diagnosis and treatment.
• Joint Pain: Joint pain can be a sign of underlying health issues, so early detection through regular checkups with your internist can help prevent long-term complications.

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

• Advance Directive End of Life Planning: Proactively plan your end-of-life care wishes to ensure your preferences are respected and your family is supported.
• Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): This simple blood test helps your doctor check your blood's oxygen and carbon dioxide levels, giving them a clear picture of your lung and kidney function and helping to prevent serious complications.
• 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.
• Immunization Administration: Regular immunizations strengthen your body's defenses, reducing your risk of contracting contagious diseases.
• Smoking Cessation Counseling: Take control of your health by getting personalized support and strategies to quit smoking and improve your respiratory health.
• Trauma Rehabilitation: Trauma rehabilitation is a crucial step in preventing long-term complications and optimizing your recovery after a traumatic injury, such as a car accident or serious fall.
• Psychotherapy for Crisis: Addressing mental health concerns during a crisis through psychotherapy can help prevent escalation and improve your overall well-being.

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. Zachary Kirkland 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 checkups and increasing fluid intake, a patient successfully managed their urinary tract infections, avoiding the discomfort and disruption of recurring episodes. This proactive approach gave them the peace of mind to focus on their daily activities without worry.
• By understanding their individual hydration needs and consistently monitoring their fluid intake, a patient proactively managed their risk of dehydration, ensuring a healthier and more comfortable daily life.
• Seeking professional support, a patient successfully transitioned away from tobacco use, experiencing improved lung function and increased overall well-being. This proactive approach fostered a healthier lifestyle and peace of mind.

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. Zachary Kirkland:

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

An internist, like Dr. Kirkland, is a primary care doctor who specializes in adult health. While family physicians treat patients of all ages, internists have specialized training in diagnosing and managing the many medical conditions affecting adults.

How does Dr. Zachary Kirkland manage patients with multiple chronic conditions?

Dr. Kirkland excels at managing patients with multiple chronic conditions. He acts as the quarterback of your healthcare team, coordinating care with specialists, optimizing your medication regimen to prevent interactions, and prioritizing your overall well-being.

What is your approach to preventive care for adults?

Dr. Kirkland's approach to preventive care is a personalized, evidence-based partnership. This includes key screenings for high blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, and cancers (colorectal, breast, prostate), tailored to individual needs. The goal is to minimize health risks and promote healthy aging through proactive strategies.

What vaccinations are important for older adults?

Staying up-to-date on vaccinations is a key strategy for preventing serious illnesses in older adults. High-dose flu shots, Shingrix for shingles, and pneumonia vaccines like Prevnar 20 or Vaxneuvance and Pneumovax 23 are crucial for protecting this population. These vaccines significantly reduce the risk of complications from these common illnesses.

I have high blood pressure. What is your treatment philosophy?

Dr. Kirkland's approach to high blood pressure focuses on preventing heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease. We aim for a healthy lifestyle, including diet and exercise, and carefully selected medications when needed to achieve a personalized blood pressure goal that is right for you.

Why do I need a pre-operative evaluation before surgery?

A pre-operative evaluation is a crucial safety step. Dr. Kirkland will perform a thorough evaluation of your heart, lungs, and overall health to identify and minimize any risks associated with anesthesia and the stress of surgery, ensuring the best possible outcome.

What happens during a 'Welcome to Medicare' or annual wellness visit?

A "Welcome to Medicare" or annual wellness visit is a crucial opportunity to create a proactive health plan. We will develop a personalized prevention schedule, review all medications, assess for potential health risks, and ensure all of your healthcare is coordinated and effective.

How do you approach medication management, especially for patients on many prescriptions?

Dr. Kirkland takes a careful and thorough approach to medication management, regularly reviewing all medications (polypharmacy management) to identify potential drug interactions, eliminate unnecessary prescriptions, and ensure the most simple and effective treatment plan.

1700 S Tamiami Trl
Sarasota FL 34239
Phone: (941) 917-9000

Dr. Zachary Kirkland, DO 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): 1891256889

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. Zachary Kirkland 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.