Dr. Samuel Parker, MD

About Dr. Samuel Parker, MD

Dr. Samuel Parker, MD is a Cardiology specialist practicing at our Milton, FL clinic, dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered Cardiovascular care. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). I provide comprehensive diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies for heart and blood vessel diseases, ensuring optimal cardiovascular health for my patients. I serve all ages and am currently welcoming new patients; please call (850) 969-7979 to schedule.

Dr. Samuel Parker, MD is a cardiologist in Milton, FL, with over 50 years of experience in the medical field. He earned his medical degree from Baylor College Of Medicine in 1973, followed by an internship at Usaf Medical Center in 1974. Further specializing, he pursued fellowship training at Wilford Hall Usaf Mc in 1981. With this extensive and dedicated experience in Cardiovascular care, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. He is affiliated with HCA Florida West Hospital and is accepting new patients. Dr. Parker provides consultations primarily in English.

Our practice at West Florida Cardiology Physicians is committed to setting the standard for cardiovascular disease care in Northwest Florida. We strive to provide the highest quality of care possible, combining excellent clinical care with open communication and patient involvement to achieve the best possible outcomes. We are confident that Dr. Parker's extensive experience and dedication will be a valuable asset to your health journey.

Cardiovascular Conditions Addressed

Dr. Samuel Parker addresses a wide range of Cardiovascular health concerns, including:

• Endocarditis: Endocarditis is an infection of the inner lining of your heart chambers and valves.
• Mitral Valve Disease: The mitral valve, located between the left atrium and ventricle, can develop diseases that disrupt normal heart function and require medical attention.
• Hyperlipidemia: Having high cholesterol or triglycerides (types of fat) in your blood is called hyperlipidemia.
• Hypertensive Heart Disease: High blood pressure over a long time can weaken and thicken your heart muscle, leading to hypertensive heart disease.
• Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): Coronary artery disease (CAD) happens when plaque builds up inside the arteries that supply blood to your heart, reducing blood flow.
• Arrhythmias: Arrhythmias refer to any condition where your heart beats irregularly, either too fast or too slow.
• Hypertension: Hypertension means your blood pressure is higher than it should be, increasing your risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease.
• High Cholesterol: Elevated cholesterol levels in your blood can clog your arteries, reducing blood flow to your heart and other organs.
• Aortic Valve Disease: The aortic valve, responsible for regulating blood flow from your heart, can develop issues like stenosis (narrowing) or regurgitation (leakage), causing aortic valve disease.
• Pericardial Disease: Pericardial disease encompasses various disorders that impact the pericardium's function and structure.
• Acute Coronary Syndrome: Acute coronary syndrome is a sudden heart problem caused by a blockage in one of the heart's arteries.
• Tricuspid Valve Disease: Tricuspid valve disease refers to problems with the valve in your heart that controls blood flow between the heart's right atrium and right ventricle.

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

Cardiovascular Services Provided

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

• Chest CT (incl. Heart and Lungs): This service provides a detailed X-ray picture of your chest, heart, and lungs.
• Cardiac Myocardial Perfusion Imaging: A cardiac myocardial perfusion imaging scan uses radioactive tracers to assess blood flow to your heart muscle, helping detect blockages.
• Cholesterol Screening: This service helps check your cholesterol levels to assess your heart health.
• Cardiovascular Diagnostic Test: Doctors use these tests to diagnose heart disease, evaluate the effectiveness of treatment, and monitor your progress.
• Treadmill Stress Test: This test involves walking on a treadmill while your heart rhythm and blood pressure are monitored to assess your heart's health and function.
• Nuclear Stress Testing: A nuclear stress test combines a nuclear scan with exercise or medication to create images of your heart, showing how well it's functioning under stress.
• Cardiac Imaging: Doctors use cardiac imaging tests to check the health of your heart and see how well it's pumping blood.
• Peripheral Arterial Disease Screening (PAD): A PAD screening test helps detect blocked blood vessels in your limbs, often due to atherosclerosis.
• Tilt Table Testing: During a tilt table test, you'll lie on a table that adjusts to different angles to help doctors determine if changes in your blood pressure or heart rhythm are causing your symptoms.
• Pharmacologic Nuclear Stress Test: This non-invasive test combines medication to stress your heart with a radioactive tracer to create images showing how well blood flows through your heart's arteries.
• TCD Bubble Test: This test uses ultrasound to check blood flow in your brain's arteries.
• Structural Heart Disease Evaluations and Treatment: This involves checks and procedures to repair or manage problems with the physical shape or function of the heart.

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

What is a Cardiologist?

A cardiologist is a medical doctor specializing in the heart and blood vessels. They diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases like coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, and high blood pressure. Our cardiologists are experts in these conditions.

What should I expect during my first visit with Dr. Samuel Parker?

Your first visit with Dr. Parker will involve a detailed review of your symptoms, risk factors, and family history. A physical exam and often an electrocardiogram (EKG) will be performed. Further testing, such as an echocardiogram or stress test, may be discussed based on your individual needs.

Does Dr. Samuel Parker accept my insurance?

Dr. Parker's office accepts a variety of insurance plans. To confirm your specific coverage for consultations and procedures, please call our office directly with your insurance information.

How does Dr. Samuel Parker treat high blood pressure (hypertension)?

Dr. Parker's approach to managing high blood pressure is comprehensive, focusing on lifestyle modifications like diet, exercise, and stress reduction, combined with appropriate medication prescriptions. The goal is to achieve and maintain healthy blood pressure levels to prevent future heart and vascular problems.

I have a family history of heart disease. How can I be proactive?

We commend your proactive approach. A preventive cardiology consultation with Dr. Parker involves a thorough risk assessment, potentially including advanced lipid testing, and the creation of a personalized plan to help minimize your future risk through diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes.

What is the treatment for high cholesterol?

Treatment for high cholesterol often starts with dietary changes and increased physical activity. If lifestyle modifications are insufficient, Dr. Parker may prescribe medications like statins to effectively lower cholesterol levels and reduce cardiovascular risk.

What is the difference between a pacemaker and a defibrillator (ICD)?

A pacemaker regulates slow heartbeats, while an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) monitors and treats dangerously fast heartbeats by delivering electrical shocks if needed.

How does Dr. Samuel Parker treat heart valve disease?

Dr. Parker approaches valvular heart disease with a personalized strategy. This may include regular monitoring for mild cases, medication management for moderate cases, and, for severe cases, coordination with a cardiac surgeon or interventional cardiologist for procedures like valve repair or replacement (TAVR).