Dr. Richard Matthews, MD

About Dr. Richard Matthews, MD

Dr. Richard Matthews, MD is a Family Medicine physician dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered care at his clinic in Gulf Breeze, FL. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). Dr. Matthews is committed to providing comprehensive, continuous healthcare for individuals and families of all ages, addressing a wide range of health concerns. He is currently welcoming new patients, and they are encouraged to call (850) 932-7303 to schedule an appointment.

Dr. Richard Matthews, MD is a family medicine physician in Gulf Breeze, FL and has over 40 years of experience in the medical field. He earned his medical degree from the University of Florida in 1982 and completed an internship at the University of South Alabama Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine in 1983. Following medical school, he undertook residency training in Family Medicine at University of South Alabama Hospitals, graduating in 1985, and specializing in the comprehensive medical care of all ages. With this extensive background, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. He is Board Certified in Family Practice by the American Board of Family Medicine and affiliated with Baptist Hospital and Gulf Breeze Hospital. He is accepting new patients and telehealth appointments. Dr. Matthews provides consultations primarily in English.

Dr. Matthews is deeply committed to evidence-based medicine and patient education, prioritizing collaborative decision-making to ensure patients feel supported and reassured throughout their healthcare journey. He strives to create a supportive and empathetic environment where patients feel comfortable discussing their health concerns openly and honestly.

Family Medicine Conditions Addressed

Dr. Richard Matthews addresses a wide range of Family Medicine health concerns, including:

• Outer Ear Infection: Inflammation and infection of the skin and tissues in your outer ear canal can cause pain, itching, and discharge.
• Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): Symptoms of a urinary tract infection include pain or burning during urination, frequent urination, and cloudy or foul-smelling urine.
• Insomnia: If you have insomnia, you might find yourself frequently waking up during the night or struggling to fall asleep at bedtime.
• Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis, or degenerative joint disease, happens when the protective cartilage on the ends of your bones wears down over time.
• Diabetes: Diabetes means your blood sugar is too high, which can damage your organs over time if not managed.
• Asymptomatic Post-Menopausal Status: This is a normal state of being after menopause, with no noticeable symptoms.
• Cold Sore: A cold sore is a small, painful blister on the lip or mouth caused by the herpes simplex virus.
• Acute Lower Respiratory Infection: Acute lower respiratory infection is a common illness affecting the lungs and airways, often causing cough, fever, and shortness of breath.
• Leukocytopenia: Low white blood cell count can increase your risk of infection.
• Fever: Fever is a symptom, usually caused by an infection or inflammation, where your body temperature rises above the typical range.
• Testicular Dysfunction: Testicular dysfunction can cause problems with hormone production and/or sperm production.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Experiencing abdominal pain, cramping, gas, and irregular bowel movements may indicate irritable bowel syndrome.

Please note: This list highlights some common health concerns that Dr. Richard Matthews 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 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.

Family Medicine Services Provided

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

• Mole Removal: During a mole removal, a mole is completely excised and sent to a lab for testing.
• Alcohol Misuse Screening and Counseling: During this appointment, we'll assess your alcohol consumption and provide counseling if necessary to promote healthy lifestyle choices.
• Chlamydia Infection Screening: We'll perform a chlamydia test to check for the presence of this bacterial infection.
• Biopsy: A biopsy is a medical test that examines a small tissue sample to help determine if there is an abnormality or disease.
• Detoxification Evaluation: We'll check your body's systems to see how well they're processing and removing harmful substances.
• Anemia and Iron Deficiency Screening: This test helps determine if you have anemia, a condition where your blood lacks healthy red blood cells.
• Impairment Rating Evaluation: This service helps determine the impact of your medical condition on your ability to function.
• Dementia or Depression Screening: We can assess your risk for dementia and depression through simple questionnaires and conversations.
• Tuberculosis Screening: Tuberculosis screening involves a simple test to check if you have been infected with the bacteria that cause tuberculosis.
• Genetic Screening for Breast Cancer: Genetic testing can reveal whether you carry genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2, which significantly raise your breast cancer risk.
• Melanoma Screening: This check involves a thorough examination of your skin to identify any potentially cancerous growths or changes.
• HeartAware Online Risk Screening: HeartAware is an online tool to estimate your risk of developing heart disease.

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

What is a Family Medicine doctor?

Dr. Matthews and our practice are dedicated to providing comprehensive primary care for the entire family, from newborns to seniors. We focus on wellness, disease prevention, and coordinating care for a wide range of conditions. We're here to help manage your health needs throughout your life.

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

Your first visit with Dr. Matthews will involve a comprehensive review of your personal and family medical history, a thorough physical exam, and a discussion about your health goals. Please bring a list of all current medications, including over-the-counter supplements, and any relevant past medical records for review.

Does Dr. Richard Matthews accept my insurance?

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

What men's health services does Dr. Richard Matthews offer?

Dr. Matthews provides comprehensive men's health services, including prostate health screenings, management of low testosterone, and addressing concerns like erectile dysfunction within a personalized wellness plan.

Does Dr. Richard Matthews see children and infants?

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

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

Dr. Matthews and our staff offer several common skin procedures, including skin biopsies for suspicious moles, wart or skin tag removal, and incision and drainage for abscesses. These are often done conveniently in our office, reducing the need for separate appointments and travel.

Can my child get their school or sports physical with Dr. Richard Matthews?

Yes, Dr. Matthews and our staff are happy to perform school, sports, and camp physicals. Please schedule these appointments well in advance of any deadlines and bring all required forms.

Does Dr. Richard Matthews provide care for newborns after they leave the hospital?

Yes, Dr. Matthews' practice provides comprehensive newborn care, including the crucial first check-up after hospital discharge. We offer weight checks, feeding support, developmental screenings, and guidance for parents during the critical first few months.