Dr. Joan Carter, MD

About Dr. Joan Carter, MD

Dr. Joan Carter, MD is a Family Medicine physician dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered care at her clinic in Tampa, 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, continuous healthcare for individuals and families of all ages, addressing a wide range of health concerns. Patients should call (813) 998-8000 to confirm if she is currently accepting new patients.

Dr. Joan Carter, MD is a family medicine physician in Tampa, FL and has over 45 years of experience in the medical field. With over 45 years of dedicated experience in Family Medicine care, she brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to her patients and their families. She earned her medical degree from University Of West Alabama in 1977. She is committed to evidence-based medicine, patient education, collaborative decision-making, and providing a supportive, reassuring environment for patients of all ages. Dr. Joan Carter provides consultations primarily in English.

Family Medicine Conditions Addressed

Dr. Joan Carter addresses a wide range of Family Medicine health concerns, including:

• Anxiety: Anxiety involves excessive fear or worry that interferes with daily life and can manifest physically as restlessness or fatigue.
• Arthritis: Arthritis is a condition that causes pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints.
• Back Pain: Back pain can range from a mild ache to a severe, debilitating pain that limits your ability to move.
• Dyslipidemia: Dyslipidemia is a condition where your blood has too much fat, like cholesterol or triglycerides.
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): GERD is characterized by persistent acid reflux, leading to discomfort and potential long-term health problems if left untreated.
• Hyperlipidemia: High cholesterol, or hyperlipidemia, increases your risk for heart disease and stroke.
• Hypertension: High blood pressure (hypertension) is often a silent condition, meaning you may not have noticeable symptoms despite increased health risks.
• Lipid Disorders: Lipid disorders are conditions where the levels of cholesterol and other fats in your blood are too high or too low, potentially harming your health.
• Low Back Pain: Many cases of low back pain can be effectively treated with self-care, over-the-counter medications, and physical therapy.
• Malaise and Fatigue: Feeling unwell and tired is a common symptom that can have various causes.
• Osteoporosis: Osteoporosis is characterized by low bone mass and microarchitectural deterioration, increasing fracture risk.

Please note: This list highlights some common health concerns that Dr. Joan Carter addresses and is for informational purposes only; it does not constitute medical advice. The range of conditions a Family Medicine 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.

Family Medicine Services Provided

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

• Herpes Simplex Screening: This screening involves a quick test to detect the presence of the herpes simplex virus.
• Rapid Flu Test: The rapid flu test helps determine if your flu-like symptoms are caused by influenza.
• Thyroid Screening: Thyroid screening checks your thyroid gland's function to detect potential problems early.
• Prostate Cancer Screening: Discussions with your doctor about your risk factors and the pros and cons of prostate cancer screening are important.
• Dementia Evaluation: This visit assesses your thinking skills and memory to determine if you have dementia.
• Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) Scan: This painless test uses low-dose X-rays to check the strength and density of your bones.
• Chlamydia Infection Screening: A chlamydia screening is a simple test to detect this common sexually transmitted infection.
• Pre-Operative Evaluation: Our pre-operative evaluation helps ensure you're healthy enough for your surgery.
• Psychiatric Evaluation: This appointment involves a thorough review of your mental health history, including symptoms, past diagnoses, and treatments.
• Diabetes Screening: A diabetes screening test can detect high blood sugar, a key indicator of diabetes.
• Vaginosis Screening: A vaginosis screening checks for an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina that can cause symptoms like odor or discharge.
• Evaluation and Treatment of Sleep Disorders: We'll work together to identify and manage any issues affecting your sleep, improving your overall health.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Joan Carter. Service availability can change and not all services listed may be appropriate or offered to every patient. The scope of services provided by a Family Medicine 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 Family Medicine 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. Joan Carter:

What is a Family Medicine doctor?

Dr. Carter and our team are family medicine physicians, providing comprehensive primary care for all ages, from newborns to seniors. We focus on preventative care, managing a wide range of conditions, and coordinating your family's health needs.

What should I expect during my first visit with Dr. Joan Carter?

Your first visit with Dr. Carter will involve a comprehensive review of your personal and family medical history, a thorough physical exam, and a discussion of your health goals. Please bring a list of all current medications, including over-the-counter supplements, and any relevant past medical records to help us provide the best possible care.

Does Dr. Joan Carter accept my insurance?

Dr. Carter's office accepts a variety of insurance plans. To confirm your specific coverage, please call the office directly with your insurance information prior to your appointment.

What kind of skin procedures can be done in your office?

Dr. Carter's office performs common dermatologic procedures like skin biopsies, wart or skin tag removal, and incision and drainage of abscesses. These procedures are conveniently handled in your primary care setting, minimizing travel and wait times.

Can I see Dr. Joan Carter for acute illnesses like the flu or a UTI?

Yes, Dr. Carter and our team are happy to see you for acute illnesses like the flu or a UTI. We can schedule a sick visit for you, and we treat a wide range of common conditions including colds, infections, and minor injuries. Please call our office to schedule an appointment.

Can my child get their school or sports physical with Dr. Joan Carter?

Yes, Dr. Carter's practice performs school, sports, and camp physicals. Please schedule these appointments well in advance of any deadlines and bring all required forms.

How does Dr. Joan Carter help manage chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure?

Dr. Carter and our team provide comprehensive care for chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, including regular check-ups, medication management, and personalized lifestyle counseling (diet and exercise). We also coordinate care with specialists when needed to ensure patients receive the best possible ongoing support and health management.

Does Dr. Joan Carter see children and infants?

Dr. Carter is a family physician and welcomes patients of all ages, including newborns, infants, children, and adolescents. She provides well-child check-ups, immunizations, and treatment for common childhood illnesses.