Dr. Thomas McKnight, MD

About Dr. Thomas McKnight, MD

Dr. Thomas McKnight, MD is a Family Medicine physician dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered care at his clinic in Niceville, FL. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). I provide comprehensive, continuous healthcare for individuals and families of all ages, addressing a wide range of health concerns. A former United Methodist pastor and graduate of Princeton Theological Seminary, I realized my passion was to serve people during times of medical uncertainty. My journey led me to the University of Kentucky College of Medicine after 18 months of premed studies. With over 40 years of dedicated experience in Family Medicine care, I bring a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to my patients and their families. I am Board Certified in Family Practice by the American Board of Family Medicine.

My extensive training includes a residency in Family Medicine at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, and a subsequent fellowship in faculty development at the University of North Carolina. I also completed a preventive medicine residency specializing in obesity and weight management, and served in various AF leadership roles, including deployment to Saudi Arabia, retiring with the rank of colonel. My commitment to patient care extends from my time as a civil servant at the Air Force's Special Ops Base, to my current practice at the Emerald Coast Health Institute, which my wife and I opened in 2012. I earned my medical degree from the University of Kentucky in 1983, completing an internship at Eglin Air Force Base Family Medicine in 1984. Further specialization followed with residency training in Family Medicine at Eglin Air Force Base (1986) and fellowship training at the University of North Carolina (1994). I am currently not accepting new patients, but you can call (850) 279-6949 to inquire about waitlists or future openings. Your Health, Our Passion. Visit us at www.echidoc.com. Dr. Thomas McKnight provides consultations primarily in English.

Family Medicine Conditions Addressed

Dr. Thomas McKnight addresses a wide range of Family Medicine health concerns, including:

• Anxiety: Anxiety is a feeling of nervousness, worry, or unease, typically about an imminent event or something with an uncertain outcome.
• Diabetic Polyneuropathy: Diabetic polyneuropathy is nerve damage that can occur in people with diabetes, affecting the hands, feet, and other parts of the body.
• Foot Infection: A foot infection can cause pain, redness, and swelling, and may require medical attention.
• Sinus Tachycardia: Your heart beats too quickly due to sinus tachycardia, a condition affecting the heart's rhythm.
• Perimenopause: Perimenopause is the transitional phase leading up to menopause, marked by hormonal changes that can cause irregular periods and other symptoms.
• Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): Symptoms of a urinary tract infection include pain or burning during urination, frequent urination, and cloudy or foul-smelling urine.
• Bruise of Face: A facial bruise is a discoloration of the skin caused by bleeding under the surface.
• Low Back Pain: Low back pain may be caused by muscle strain, injury, or underlying medical conditions.
• Food Poisoning: Food poisoning is an illness caused by eating contaminated food.
• Malaise and Fatigue: Feeling unwell and tired is a common symptom that can be caused by many things.
• Joint Pain: Joint pain can range from mild aches to severe, limiting discomfort.
• Gait Abnormality: A gait abnormality is a change in the way you walk.

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

• Immunization Administration: Getting an immunization shot helps build your body's defense against specific illnesses.
• Geriatric Assessment: This assessment helps identify and manage health problems common in seniors, improving their quality of life.
• Vaccination: Getting vaccinated is a safe and effective way to protect yourself and others from serious diseases.
• Skin Screenings: Skin screenings help identify potential skin cancers early, when they're often easier to treat.
• Thyroid Screening: Regular thyroid screening can help detect problems such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism before symptoms appear.
• Chlamydia Infection Screening: We'll perform a chlamydia test to check for the presence of this bacterial infection.
• Breast Cancer Screening: Regular breast cancer screenings can help detect cancer at an early stage, when it's most treatable.
• Joint Fluid Test: This test involves removing a small amount of fluid from your joint for examination in a lab.
• Strep Test: A strep test checks for the bacteria that cause strep throat.
• Ovarian Cancer Screening: Discussions with your doctor about your risk factors for ovarian cancer and the potential benefits and limitations of screening are crucial.
• Arrhythmia Screening: Arrhythmia screening aims to find heart rhythm problems early, allowing for timely intervention and improving your heart health.
• Cardiovascular Stress Test: This test measures your heart rate, blood pressure, and ECG while you exercise to identify potential heart issues.

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

What is a Family Medicine doctor?

Dr. McKnight and our team are family medicine physicians, providing comprehensive primary care for patients of all ages. We focus on wellness, disease prevention, and coordinating care for individuals and families. We manage a wide range of conditions from routine checkups to complex illnesses.

What should I expect during my first visit with Dr. Thomas McKnight?

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

Does Dr. Thomas McKnight accept my insurance?

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

How does Dr. Thomas McKnight handle mental health concerns like anxiety or depression?

Dr. McKnight understands that mental health is a crucial part of overall well-being. He is trained to diagnose and manage conditions like anxiety and depression, potentially through lifestyle counseling, medication, and referrals to specialists when necessary.

Does Dr. Thomas McKnight have experience with geriatric patients?

Dr. McKnight has extensive experience caring for geriatric patients, adeptly managing multiple chronic conditions, reviewing medications, addressing mobility and memory concerns, and prioritizing maintaining a high quality of life for his older patients.

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

Dr. McKnight's office performs common dermatologic procedures like skin biopsies, wart and skin tag removal, and incision and drainage of abscesses. These procedures are often convenient and can be managed within your primary care visit.

Does Dr. Thomas McKnight provide women's health services?

Dr. McKnight provides routine women's health services, including well-woman exams, Pap smears, and contraceptive counseling. He can also manage some menopausal symptoms. However, for complex women's health concerns or specialized procedures, a referral to a gynecologist may be recommended.

Can I see Dr. Thomas McKnight for acute illnesses like the flu or a UTI?

Yes, Dr. McKnight and our team are happy to see you for acute illnesses like the flu or a UTI. We offer convenient scheduling for sick visits, and can diagnose and treat common conditions such as colds, infections, and minor injuries. Our goal is to provide prompt and effective care for your needs.