Dr. Craig Stemmer, MD

About Dr. Craig Stemmer, MD

Dr. Craig Stemmer, MD is a Nephrology specialist practicing at his clinic in Boca Raton, FL, dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered care. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). He provides comprehensive diagnosis and management of chronic kidney disease, hypertension, electrolyte imbalances, dialysis, and kidney transplantation, ensuring patient-centered care throughout all stages of kidney health. He serves all ages, and patients should call (561) 241-7100 to confirm if he is currently accepting new patients.

Dr. Craig Stemmer, MD is a nephrologist in Boca Raton, FL and has over 40 years of experience in the medical field. He earned his medical degree from Medical College Of Wisconsin in 1981. With over 40 years of dedicated experience in Nephrology care, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. He is affiliated with medical facilities such as UF Health Shands Hospital and Delray Medical Center. He is Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine, and Board Certified in Nephrology by the American Board of Internal Medicine. He is also accepting telehealth appointments. Dr. Stemmer is fluent in Chinese and also offers consultations in Spanish, further enhancing his commitment to patient accessibility and understanding.

Dr. Stemmer's approach to care is deeply rooted in evidence-based medicine, emphasizing patient education and collaborative decision-making. He strives to provide a supportive and reassuring environment where patients feel empowered and informed throughout their journey. His commitment to these principles, coupled with his extensive experience, ensures that his patients receive the highest standard of care.

Nephrology Conditions Addressed

Dr. Craig Stemmer addresses a wide range of Nephrology health concerns, including:

• Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD): ADPKD is a genetic disease characterized by the formation of multiple cysts within the kidneys, which can impair kidney function over time.
• Congenital Cystic Kidney Disease: This condition, present from birth, involves the kidneys having multiple cysts that can vary in size and impact kidney function differently from person to person.
• Amyloidosis: Amyloidosis is a condition where abnormal proteins build up in organs, potentially causing damage over time.
• Kidney Stones: The formation of kidney stones is influenced by factors such as genetics, diet, and dehydration.
• Iron Metabolism Disorders: Iron metabolism disorders affect how your body absorbs and uses iron, potentially leading to iron deficiency or overload.
• Hyposmolality and Hyponatremia: Hyposmolality indicates your blood is too diluted, often because of low sodium levels (hyponatremia), potentially causing serious health issues.
• Parathyroid (Gland) Disease: Parathyroid disease affects the glands that control calcium levels in your body.
• Chronic Nephritic Syndrome: This condition, chronic nephritic syndrome, signifies a slow but progressive damage to the kidneys, marked by inflammation and changes in urine.
• Wegener: Wegener's granulomatosis is a rare disease that affects the blood vessels, often causing inflammation in the lungs, kidneys, and other organs.
• Hypokalemia: Having low potassium, or hypokalemia, can disrupt your heart rhythm and cause muscle weakness or cramps.
• Nephritis and Nephropathy: While nephritis focuses on inflammation in the kidneys, nephropathy covers a broader spectrum of kidney disorders causing impaired function.
• Acidosis: Acidosis is a condition where your body has too much acid.

Please note: This list highlights some common health concerns that Dr. Craig Stemmer addresses and is for informational purposes only; it does not constitute medical advice. The range of conditions a Nephrology manages is broad, and this list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive understanding of how he can assist with your Patient's specific health needs or to discuss any particular symptoms, it's always best to schedule a consultation. Accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans are developed based on individual patient evaluations.

Nephrology Services Provided

Dr. Craig Stemmer offers a range of services to support your Patient's health and well-being, such as:

• End-Stage Renal Disease Related Services: End-Stage Renal Disease Related Services covers medical care for patients whose kidneys have failed and require dialysis or a transplant.
• Hemodialysis: Hemodialysis is a type of dialysis that removes waste and excess fluid from your blood through a process of filtration and diffusion.
• Kidney Transplant Evaluation: Kidney transplant evaluation involves tests and assessments to determine if you're a suitable candidate for a kidney transplant.
• Living Kidney Donor Evaluation: A living kidney donor evaluation checks your health to see if you're eligible to donate a kidney to someone in need.
• Peritoneal Dialysis: This treatment, peritoneal dialysis, cleanses your blood by using the lining of your belly to filter out waste products and extra fluid.
• Renal Scan: Renal scanning provides pictures of your kidneys to assess their size, shape, and ability to filter waste.
• Ultrasound: A kidney ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging technique to check for blockages, cysts, or other problems in your kidneys.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Craig Stemmer. Service availability can change and not all services listed may be appropriate or offered to every patient. The scope of services provided by a Nephrology can vary. For a comprehensive understanding of all available services or to discuss your Patient's specific healthcare needs, it's always best to schedule a consultation. Some specialized procedures or advanced diagnostic tests may require referral to a subspecialist.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Nephrology in Florida and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The Florida Board of Medicine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. Craig Stemmer:

What is a Nephrologist?

Dr. Stemmer and our team of nephrologists are medical doctors specializing in kidney diseases. We have expertise in managing conditions like chronic kidney disease, high blood pressure, and electrolyte imbalances, and provide care for patients on dialysis or who have had a kidney transplant.

What should I expect during my first visit with Dr. Craig Stemmer?

Your first visit with Dr. Stemmer will involve a comprehensive review of your medical history, a detailed discussion of your kidney-related symptoms, and a physical exam. Please bring a complete list of all medications and any recent lab results or imaging reports to help us provide the best possible care.

Does Dr. Craig Stemmer accept my insurance?

Dr. Stemmer's office accepts a variety of insurance plans. Please call our office directly to verify your specific insurance coverage for nephrology services.

What is dialysis?

Dialysis is a life-sustaining treatment that performs the function of the kidneys when they have failed. It works by removing waste products and excess fluid from the blood. Common types include hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis.

How does Dr. Craig Stemmer manage Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)?

Dr. Stemmer's approach to CKD management focuses on slowing disease progression and managing complications. Key strategies include controlling blood pressure, managing blood sugar (if diabetic), providing dietary counseling, and prescribing medications to protect kidney function.

Why do I have anemia with my kidney disease?

Healthy kidneys produce a hormone that tells the body to make red blood cells. When kidney function is impaired, less of this hormone is produced, leading to anemia. Your nephrologist can manage this with iron supplements and medications that stimulate red blood cell production.

What is Dr. Craig Stemmer's role in kidney transplantation?

Dr. Stemmer is a key part of the kidney transplant team, managing patients' overall health before, during, and after transplantation. He evaluates candidacy, monitors patients while they're on the waiting list, and provides crucial long-term care to ensure the success of the transplant.

I have recurrent kidney stones. How can a nephrologist help?

Dr. Stemmer and our team specialize in preventing kidney stones from recurring. We'll perform metabolic testing to identify the underlying cause, then recommend dietary changes, hydration strategies, and potentially medications to reduce the risk of future stones.