Dr. Jean Vickers, MD

About Dr. Jean Vickers, MD

Dr. Jean Vickers, MD is a Nephrology specialist dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered care at her clinic in Port St. Lucie, FL. She is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). I provide 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. I serve all ages, and while I am not currently accepting new patients, you are welcome to call (772) 286-1550 to inquire about waitlists or future openings.

Dr. Jean Vickers, MD is a nephrologist in Port St. Lucie, FL with over 15 years of experience in the medical field. With a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care, she brings a strong focus on preventative care to her patients and their families. She earned her medical degree from West Virginia University School of Medicine in 2005 and completed an internship at West Virginia University in 2006. Further specializing, she pursued fellowship training at the Medical University of South Carolina in 2010, deepening her expertise in this specialized area of patient health. Dr. Vickers is Board Certified in Clinical Pathology by the American Board of Preventive Medicine, Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine, and Board Certified in Nephrology by the American Board of Internal Medicine. She has extensive experience in Glomerulonephritis & Nephropathy and is affiliated with Cleveland Clinic Martin North Hospital. As a nephrologist, I want to help PREVENT the worsening of kidney disease, as much as I want to provide the best possible care for patients WITH kidney disease. We will talk about therapies of diet and lifestyle just as much as we will talk about medications. Dr. Jean Vickers provides consultations primarily in English.

Nephrology Conditions Addressed

Dr. Jean Vickers addresses a wide range of Nephrology health concerns, including:

• Chronic Pain: Chronic pain is persistent discomfort that lasts for a significant period, often requiring ongoing management.
• Intestinal Diverticulosis: Intestinal diverticulosis is a condition where small pouches form in the lining of the intestines.
• Sinus Bradycardia: Sinus bradycardia is a slow heart rate that originates from the heart's natural pacemaker.
• Lipid Disorders: Lipid disorders affect the levels of fats in your blood, potentially increasing your risk of heart disease.
• Limb Swelling Caused by Fluid Overload: Fluid buildup in your body can cause swelling in your limbs.
• Bedsores: Bedsores are injuries to the skin and tissues that develop when the skin is pressed against a surface for too long.
• Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs): Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infections spread through sexual contact.
• Acute Kidney Infection: An acute kidney infection is a sudden infection of the kidneys, often causing pain, fever, and changes in urination.
• Muscle Weakness: Muscle weakness can be a symptom of kidney problems.
• Enlarged Prostate (BPH): An enlarged prostate can cause problems with urination.
• Painful Urination (Dysuria): Dysuria, or painful urination, can be a symptom of various underlying conditions.
• Chronic Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Chronic deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a condition where blood clots form in the deep veins, often causing pain and swelling in the affected leg.

Please note: This list highlights some common health concerns that Dr. Jean Vickers 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 she 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. Jean Vickers offers a range of services to support your Patient's health and well-being, such as:

• Ultrasound: This imaging test uses sound waves to visualize your kidneys and nearby structures, assisting in the diagnosis of kidney-related issues.
• Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): An arterial blood gas test measures the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in your blood.
• Renal Scan: This imaging test helps determine if your kidneys are filtering waste effectively and identifies potential blockages.
• Central Line Insertion: This service provides the placement of a central line for intravenous access.
• Hemodialysis: Hemodialysis involves connecting you to a dialysis machine for several hours at a time, several times a week, to cleanse your blood.
• Kidney Transplant Evaluation: This process involves multiple tests to determine your eligibility for a kidney transplant and plan for a successful procedure.
• Electrocardiogram (EKG): An electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG) is a simple test that measures the electrical activity of your heart.
• Immunization Administration: Our immunization administration service provides safe and effective vaccinations to protect you from preventable diseases.
• Peritoneal Dialysis: Peritoneal dialysis is a type of kidney dialysis where a cleansing fluid is washed through a catheter in your abdomen to remove waste products.
• Pap Smear: A Pap smear is a screening test for cervical cancer.
• Diabetes Counseling: This program provides personalized guidance on diabetes management to help reduce your risk of developing kidney disease.
• Fecal Occult Blood Test for Colorectal Cancer: This test checks your stool for hidden blood, which can be a sign of colorectal cancer.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Jean Vickers. 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. Jean Vickers:

What is a Nephrologist?

Dr. Jean Vickers and her team are nephrologists, meaning they are medical doctors specializing in kidney diseases. They have extensive experience 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. Jean Vickers?

Your first visit with Dr. Vickers 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 Dr. Vickers provide the best possible care.

Does Dr. Jean Vickers accept my insurance?

Insurance acceptance varies. Please call our office directly with your insurance information to confirm coverage for nephrology services before your appointment.

Why do I have anemia with my kidney disease?

Kidney disease often leads to anemia because the damaged kidneys produce less erythropoietin, a hormone that helps the body make red blood cells. Our nephrologists manage this with iron supplements and medications that stimulate EPO production.

Why would I need a kidney biopsy?

A kidney biopsy is a diagnostic procedure where a small piece of kidney tissue is removed with a needle for microscopic examination. It's the most definitive way to diagnose specific kidney diseases like glomerulonephritis and helps guide treatment decisions.

What is the connection between my kidneys and high blood pressure?

High blood pressure can damage the kidneys over time, and damaged kidneys can also cause high blood pressure. Dr. Vickers is an expert in managing complex or resistant hypertension, often by addressing kidney-related factors.

How is Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) managed?

Dr. Vickers's practice manages PKD as a long-term strategy, focusing on controlling symptoms and slowing cyst growth. Key elements include strict blood pressure control, pain management, treatment of urinary tract infections, and discussion of newer medications that may slow disease progression. Regular monitoring and communication are essential for optimal management.

How do you know when a patient needs to start dialysis?

The decision to start dialysis is a careful consideration of several factors, including a patient's overall symptoms, kidney function (GFR), and ability to manage daily life. It's a shared decision between the doctor and patient, based on a comprehensive evaluation.