Dr. Richard Handler, MD

About Dr. Richard Handler, MD

Dr. Richard Handler, MD is a Nephrology specialist practicing at Vero Renal Associates in Vero Beach, FL. He is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered care. Dr. Handler is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). He is committed to ensuring the well-being of all his patients, and is exceptionally knowledgeable in the diagnosis and management of kidney-related issues.

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. My practice serves all ages, and I am currently welcoming new patients. Please call (772) 562-3234 to schedule an appointment. Dr. Richard Handler, MD is a nephrologist in Vero Beach, FL and has over 25 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from Washington University in 1996, and has extensive experience at medical facilities such as Holmes Regional Medical Center and Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital. He is accepting new patients and telehealth appointments. With over 25 years of dedicated experience in Nephrology care, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. His educational background includes a medical degree from Washington University in 1996, followed by an internship at University Of Florida-Gainesville in 1997, and a fellowship in Nephrology at the University Of Florida in 2001. He is Board Certified in Internal Medicine and Nephrology by the American Board of Internal Medicine. My approach to care is rooted in evidence-based medicine, patient education, and collaborative decision-making. I strive to create a supportive and reassuring environment for all my patients. Dr. Richard Handler provides consultations primarily in English.

Nephrology Conditions Addressed

Dr. Richard Handler addresses a wide range of Nephrology health concerns, including:

• Diabetes With Renal Manifestations: Diabetic nephropathy is kidney damage caused by long-term diabetes.
• Congenital Cystic Kidney Disease: Children with congenital cystic kidney disease have abnormal kidney development resulting in cysts that can affect kidney function.
• Chronic Kidney Disease Stage I: Your kidneys are functioning at a slightly lower level than normal (Stage I CKD), but with proper monitoring and care, it can remain stable.
• Calcium Metabolism Disorders: Calcium metabolism disorders affect how your body uses calcium, potentially leading to problems with bones, muscles, and other organs.
• Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD): If you have ADPKD, you inherited a gene defect that causes your kidneys to develop many cysts, impacting their ability to filter waste.
• Vasculitis: Vasculitis is a serious condition where blood vessel inflammation can decrease blood flow to vital organs, including your kidneys.
• Acute Kidney Failure: Acute kidney failure means your kidneys have suddenly stopped working as well as they should.
• Hyperkalemia: An excess of potassium in your blood, a condition called hyperkalemia, can be harmful to your heart.
• Secondary Renovascular Hypertension: A blockage or narrowing in the arteries supplying your kidneys is causing your high blood pressure; this is known as secondary renovascular hypertension.
• Henochu2013Schu00f6nlein Purpura (HSP): Henoch-Schönlein purpura is a condition that causes a reddish-purple rash, often with joint pain and tummy aches.
• Hepatorenal Syndrome: In hepatorenal syndrome, the kidneys malfunction due to severe liver damage, often leading to the need for dialysis.
• Bone Disorders: Bone disorders related to kidney disease can affect your bones' strength and health.

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

• End-Stage Renal Disease Related Services: For patients with the most severe kidney disease, ESRD-related services provide the dialysis, medication, and monitoring necessary to stay alive.
• Hemodialysis: During hemodialysis, your blood is cleaned outside your body using a special filter, then returned to you.
• Kidney Transplant Evaluation: This process involves multiple tests to determine your eligibility for a kidney transplant and plan for a successful procedure.
• Living Kidney Donor Evaluation: The living kidney donor evaluation involves comprehensive medical tests to determine if you can safely donate a kidney.
• Percutaneous Biopsy of Autologous Kidney: A needle biopsy will be used to remove a tiny piece of your kidney to help doctors diagnose a kidney problem.
• 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.
• Plasmapheresis: Plasmapheresis is a procedure that removes harmful substances from your blood.
• Renal Scan: Doctors use a renal scan to evaluate kidney structure and function, helping diagnose various kidney problems.
• Ultrasound: Doctors use ultrasound to get detailed images of your kidneys to look for abnormalities and help diagnose conditions like kidney stones or cysts.

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

What is a Nephrologist?

Dr. Handler is a nephrologist, a medical doctor specializing in kidney diseases. He is expert in managing conditions such as chronic kidney disease, high blood pressure, and electrolyte imbalances, and provides care for patients on dialysis or who have undergone a kidney transplant.

What should I expect during my first visit with Dr. Richard Handler?

Your first visit with Dr. Handler 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. Handler thoroughly assess your condition.

Does Dr. Richard Handler accept my insurance?

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

How does Dr. Richard Handler manage Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)?

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

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. Handler is an expert in managing complex or resistant hypertension, often by addressing kidney-related factors.

How is Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) managed?

Dr. Handler'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 effective 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 symptoms, kidney function (GFR), and daily life management. It's a shared decision between the doctor and patient, weighing these factors to determine the best course of action.

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 and examined under a microscope. It's the most definitive way to diagnose specific kidney diseases like glomerulonephritis and helps guide the best treatment plan.