Dr. Stephen Burton, MD

About Dr. Stephen Burton, MD

Dr. Stephen Burton, MD is an Internal Medicine physician practicing at our St. Petersburg, FL clinic, dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered 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, patient-centered medical care for adults, addressing a wide range of health concerns. I am currently welcoming new patients, and you can schedule an appointment by calling (727) 525-5500.

Dr. Stephen Burton, MD is an internist in St. Petersburg, FL, with over 30 years of experience in the medical field. He earned his medical degree from the University of Louisville in 1991 and has a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to offer his patients and their families. He's affiliated with AdventHealth Orlando and UF Health the Villages Hospital and is accepting new patients and telehealth appointments. I am committed to evidence-based medicine, patient education, and collaborative decision-making, creating a supportive and reassuring environment for my patients. Adults (typically 18 years and older) are my primary focus. Dr. Stephen Burton provides consultations primarily in English.

Internal Medicine Conditions Addressed

Dr. Stephen Burton addresses a wide range of Internal Medicine health concerns, including:

• Ankle Sprains and Strains: Ankle sprains and strains are injuries to the ligaments and tendons around your ankle, often causing pain, swelling, and difficulty moving.
• Diabetes Type 2: Type 2 diabetes develops when your pancreas doesn't make enough insulin or your cells ignore the insulin it produces.
• Acute Pharyngitis: Sudden onset of a scratchy or painful throat is a symptom of acute pharyngitis, a throat infection.
• Poison Ivy: Poison ivy is a plant that causes an itchy, red rash when its oils touch your skin.
• Heart Disease: Heart disease encompasses a range of problems, including narrowed arteries, irregular heartbeats, and heart valve issues.
• Hyperkalemia: High levels of potassium in your bloodstream, known as hyperkalemia, can be dangerous if left untreated.
• Osteoarthritis of Hand: Osteoarthritis of the hand causes pain, stiffness, and swelling in the hand joints.
• Influenza (Flu): Flu is characterized by sudden onset of fever, chills, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, and fatigue, often lasting several days.
• Osteoarthritis of Hip and Thigh: Wear and tear of the cartilage in the hip and thigh joints, known as osteoarthritis, leads to pain, swelling, and reduced mobility in these areas.
• Otitis Media: Otitis media is an infection of the middle ear.
• Allergic Conjunctivitis: Allergic conjunctivitis causes itchy, watery eyes due to an allergic reaction.
• Nail Infection: A nail infection can cause pain, swelling, and discoloration of the nail.

Please note: This list highlights some common health concerns that Dr. Stephen Burton addresses and is for informational purposes only; it does not constitute medical advice. The range of conditions a Internal Medicine manages is broad, and this list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive understanding of how he can assist with your Adult 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.

Internal Medicine Services Provided

Dr. Stephen Burton offers a range of services to support your Adult patient's health and well-being, such as:

• Abscess or Cyst Drainage or Aspiration: Our internal medicine service can drain or remove abscesses or cysts.
• Abscess or Fluid Incision and Drainage: This involves surgically opening and draining a pocket of infection or fluid.
• Advance Directive End of Life Planning: By planning ahead, you ensure your values and preferences are respected should you face a serious illness or terminal condition.
• Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): An arterial blood gas test is a quick procedure that checks the oxygen and carbon dioxide in your artery blood and determines if your blood is too acidic or alkaline.
• Electrocardiogram (EKG): This test, known as an EKG or ECG, helps identify heart conditions such as abnormal heartbeats or heart damage.
• Fecal Occult Blood Test for Colorectal Cancer: This test looks for microscopic amounts of blood in your poop that might indicate colorectal cancer.
• Immunization Administration: This describes the act of getting vaccinated to boost your immune system.
• Smoking Cessation Counseling: Counseling helps you develop strategies and coping mechanisms to overcome nicotine addiction.
• Wellness Examination: This visit involves a review of your medical history, physical exam, and screenings to promote your well-being.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Stephen Burton. Service availability can change and not all services listed may be appropriate or offered to every patient. The scope of services provided by a Internal Medicine can vary. For a comprehensive understanding of all available services or to discuss your Adult 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 Internal 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 Burton:

What is Internal Medicine?

Internal medicine focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of adult diseases. We provide comprehensive care, managing a wide range of conditions, and emphasizing preventive health strategies. Unlike family medicine, which often sees patients of all ages, internal medicine specializes in adult health concerns.

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

Your first visit with Dr. Burton will involve a review of your medical history, a physical exam, and a discussion of your health goals and concerns. Please bring a list of all current medications and any relevant medical records to help ensure a comprehensive evaluation. We will work together to create a personalized plan for your health.

Does Dr. Stephen Burton accept my insurance?

Dr. Burton's office accepts a variety of insurance plans. Please contact our office directly to verify your specific insurance plan's coverage.

Which vaccinations does Dr. Stephen Burton offer?

Dr. Burton offers a variety of vaccinations, including influenza (flu) shots, pneumonia vaccines, and other recommended immunizations. Please contact our office to discuss your specific needs and schedule an appointment.

Does Dr. Stephen Burton address mental health concerns?

Dr. Burton does not provide direct mental health services. However, he is happy to discuss mental health concerns with patients and coordinate care with appropriate specialists, or provide referrals to mental health professionals when needed.

How does Dr. Stephen Burton manage chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease?

Dr. Burton's approach to chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease is patient-centered, focusing on lifestyle counseling, medication management, and regular monitoring. He works closely with each patient to develop a personalized plan that addresses their individual needs and goals. This includes educating patients about healthy habits and tailoring medication regimens to optimize outcomes. Regular follow-up appointments ensure ongoing support and adjustments to the care plan as needed.

Does Dr. Stephen Burton offer same-day appointments?

Dr. Burton's office strives to accommodate urgent needs. Please call our office to discuss your specific situation and determine the best course of action for same-day or next-day appointments.

What preventive health screenings does Dr. Stephen Burton recommend?

Dr. Burton recommends preventive health screenings tailored to individual age, gender, and risk factors. These screenings, which help identify potential health issues early, are crucial for maintaining optimal health. He will discuss specific recommendations during your consultation.