Dr. Stephen Armistead, MD

About Dr. Stephen Armistead, MD

Dr. Stephen Armistead, MD is a Family Medicine physician dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered care at his clinic in Panama City, FL. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). Dr. Armistead is committed to providing comprehensive, continuous healthcare for individuals and families of all ages, addressing a wide range of health concerns. He has over 20 years of dedicated experience in Family Medicine care, bringing a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. He is not currently accepting new patients, but patients can call (850) 636-7000 to inquire about waitlists or future openings. Dr. Armistead moved to Panama City in 2005, and holds a medical degree from St. George's University School of Medicine, completed in 2000, following his residency in Family Medicine at the University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine. He also holds a Master of Public Health degree from the University of Tennessee and an undergraduate degree in Business Administration from Georgia State University. He is Board Certified in Family Practice by the National Board of Physicians and Surgeons and offers consultations in Spanish. Dr. Armistead's practice embodies the mission, vision, and values of his clinic: a commitment to the care and improvement of human life, a commitment to being the premier healthcare destination, and a focus on integrity, compassion, respect, and excellence.

Dr. Armistead's extensive background in healthcare, encompassing over 18 years of experience in the medical field, is complemented by his commitment to continuous learning and professional development. He's passionate about connecting with his patients, fostering a trusting relationship built on open communication and empathy. He is dedicated to providing holistic care, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical, mental, and emotional well-being. His commitment to comprehensive care extends to all ages, from infants to senior citizens. His interests outside of medicine include genealogy, travel, family time, and health fitness, reflecting a well-rounded individual dedicated to both his patients and personal pursuits. He is deeply committed to the values of his clinic, ensuring that each patient receives the highest quality care in a supportive and respectful environment.

Family Medicine Conditions Addressed

Dr. Stephen Armistead addresses a wide range of Family Medicine health concerns, including:

• Cold Sore: Characterized by small, fluid-filled blisters, cold sores result from reactivation of the herpes simplex virus, often triggered by stress or sun exposure.
• Excessive Menstrual Bleeding: My periods are unusually long and involve a lot of blood loss.
• Mood Disorders (Dysthymia and Cyclothymia): Mood disorders like dysthymia and cyclothymia involve persistent low moods or unstable mood swings.
• Sarcoidosis: Sarcoidosis is a condition where small, inflammatory lumps form in different parts of the body.
• Dehydration: Not drinking enough water or losing too much fluid through sweat, urine, or vomiting can cause dehydration.
• Acute Sinusitis: Acute sinusitis is a short-term infection of the sinuses that often follows a common cold.
• Osteoarthritis of Foot: Osteoarthritis of the foot causes pain and stiffness in the joints of the foot.
• Fever: A fever is an elevated body temperature, typically above 100.4°F (38°C), indicating your body is fighting something.
• Diabetes Type 1: People with Type 1 diabetes need to closely manage their diet, activity levels, and insulin therapy to stay healthy.
• Chronic Prostatitis: Chronic prostatitis is a persistent inflammation of the prostate gland that can cause pain, discomfort, and urinary problems.
• Heartburn: Heartburn, or acid reflux, feels like a burning discomfort behind your breastbone.
• Peptic Ulcer: A peptic ulcer is a sore that develops on the lining of your stomach or small intestine.

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

• Patch Testing: To figure out what's causing your rash or other allergic symptoms, your doctor might do a patch test.
• Bone Density Scan: A bone density scan helps screen for bone thinning and guides treatment decisions for osteoporosis.
• Disability Evaluation: We'll evaluate your physical and mental abilities to see how they affect your daily life and work.
• Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) Scan: A DEXA scan helps doctors detect bone loss and diagnose conditions like osteoporosis and osteopenia.
• Skin Testing and Screening: We can perform tests to identify what causes your skin rash or irritation.
• Melanoma Screening: Melanoma screening involves a visual examination of your skin to check for any suspicious moles or lesions that could be cancerous.
• Cardiac Ultrasound: This non-invasive imaging test helps diagnose various heart conditions by visualizing the heart's activity in real-time.
• Psychiatric Evaluation - Child and Adolescent: This visit focuses on addressing any mental health concerns your child or teen may be experiencing.
• Skin Screenings: Regular skin screenings are an important part of preventive care to detect skin cancer early.
• Chest Pain Evaluation: Chest pain can have many causes, and this visit will help us determine the source and create a treatment plan.
• Immunization: Immunizations are vaccines that protect you from harmful diseases.
• Osteoporosis Screening: A bone density test, or osteoporosis screening, can detect weak bones before you break a bone.

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

What is a Family Medicine doctor?

Dr. Armistead and our team are primary care physicians who provide comprehensive care for the whole family, from newborns to seniors. We focus on wellness, disease prevention, and coordinating care for a wide range of conditions.

What should I expect during my first visit with Dr. Stephen Armistead?

Your first visit with Dr. Armistead will involve a review of your personal and family medical history, a physical exam, and a discussion of your health goals. Please bring a list of all current medications and any relevant past medical records.

Does Dr. Stephen Armistead accept my insurance?

Dr. Armistead's office accepts a variety of insurance plans. To confirm your coverage, please call the office directly with your insurance information.

Does Dr. Stephen Armistead provide care for newborns after they leave the hospital?

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

Does Dr. Stephen Armistead provide women's health services?

Dr. Armistead provides routine women's health services, including well-woman exams, Pap smears, and contraceptive counseling. He can manage common menopause symptoms. However, for complex gynecological issues, a referral to a specialist may be necessary.

How does Dr. Stephen Armistead handle mental health concerns like anxiety or depression?

Dr. Armistead recognizes that mental health is a crucial part of overall well-being. He is trained to diagnose and manage conditions like anxiety and depression, often using a combination of lifestyle counseling, medication, and referrals to specialists when necessary.

What vaccinations are available at your office?

Dr. Armistead's practice offers a comprehensive range of immunizations for all ages, including routine childhood vaccines, annual flu shots, and adult boosters like Tdap and shingles, following CDC guidelines.

Can I see Dr. Stephen Armistead for acute illnesses like the flu or a UTI?

Yes, Dr. Armistead 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. Just call our office to schedule an appointment.