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315 verified Family Physicians in Sarasota, FL
Zocdoc verifies all providers before they can appear in Zocdoc search results. Every provider that appears in search is open to new patients.
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Availability last updated 06/21/2026
Availability last updated 06/21/2026
Family Nurse Practitioner
61.5 mi · 517 Buena Vista St, Lakeland, FL 33805
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 7 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
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I am a compassionate Nurse Practitioner committed to providing patient-centered care across the lifespan. My approach combines evidence-based medicine with active listening. I am passionate about preventive medicine, patient education, and empowering individuals to take an active role in their healt...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor (Virtual)
4.29
·153 reviews
Lots of kids and the waiting room smelled like diapers. To be expected for a Children’s Doctor. The kids were loud as well, also to be expected. Other than that, it was fine.Click to read more
Lakeland, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 7 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Excellent medical care for all ages with great outcomes. 20 plus years experience as a medical doctorClick to read more
Adult Nurse Practitioner
5.00
·5 reviews
Everyone is fantasticClick to read more
64 mi · 6224 Lafayette St, New Port Richey, FL 34652
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Mikel Mineo is a board-certified Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with a big heart for holistic, personalized care. With 11 years in the medical field, he’s all about helping clients feel their best through an approach that’s both evidence-based and deeply personal. Mikel earned his...Click to read more
Adult Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
5.00
·5 reviews
Everyone is fantasticClick to read more
New Port Richey, FL
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Mikel Mineo is a board-certified Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with a big heart for holistic, personalized care. With 11 years in the medical field, he’s all about helping clients feel their best through an approach that’s both evidence-based and deeply personal. Mikel earned his...Click to read more
Nurse Practitioner
64.5 mi · 3594 Broadway, Ste 100, Fort Myers, FL 33901
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 88 more
Also offers video visitsAccepting new patients
Nurse Practitioner
64.5 mi · 3594 Broadway, Ste 100, Fort Myers, FL 33901
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 88 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Debra Dooley is a Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner who earned her Master's in Nursing from Florida Gulf Coast University. Originally from New England, she began her career as an EMT while completing her nursing education. Debra has over 20 years of combined medical experience, including hos...Click to read more
Nurse Practitioner
64.5 mi · 3594 Broadway, Ste 100, Fort Myers, FL 33901
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 88 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
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Ms. Campbell has over 5 years of experience working in skilled nursing and retirement centers. She earned her Master's in Nursing from the University of South Florida and is certified in wound and ostomy care.Click to read more
Nurse Practitioner
64.5 mi · 3594 Broadway, Ste 100, Fort Myers, FL 33901
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 88 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
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I have been a Nurse Practitioner for two years, following four years as a registered nurse in the acute care setting. I earned my Master’s in Family Nursing from South University. I am passionate about the health and well-being of my patients. In my free time, I enjoy going to the beach, cooking,...Click to read more
Internist
64.5 mi · 3594 Broadway, Ste 100, Fort Myers, FL 33901
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 88 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
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Dr. Jim Liu is a physician board certified in internal medicine and has diverse and in-depth experience with both outpatient and inpatient medicine. He zestfully practices hospitalist medicine in Naples, FL. He attended Harvard University for his undergraduate degree and premedical studies and gradu...Click to read more
Nurse Practitioner
66 mi · 2915 Colonial Blvd, Ste 220, Fort Myers, FL 33966
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 18 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
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Amy L. Gonzalez is the owner and medical provider of Allied Family Health. She is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from the University of Central Florida in 2013. She enjoyed five fulfilling years at the bedside in various specialties i...Click to read more
Internist
66 mi · 6609 Ridge Rd, Port Richey, FL 34668
Accepting new patients ·
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Gaurav Malhotra, MD, is a board-certified internal medicine physician and the founder of Absolute Healthcare. He earned his Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery from Christian Medical College, Ludhiana. Dr. Malhotra completed his internship in Internal Medicine at Albert Einstein Medical Center...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
4.61
·31 reviews
Very encouraging - May 30, 2025 by Richard W.Click to read more
68 mi · 950 1st St S, Winter Haven, FL 33880
Accepts Aetna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Dr. Hector Soto Adames is a family medicine physician who has been treating patients in Central Florida since 2016. He received his medical degree from Universidad Central del Este (UCE) Facultad de Medicina in the Dominican Republic in 2004. Dr. Soto Adames has experience treating emergency room pa...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
5.00
·10 reviews
Really friendly - Apr 13, 2022 by Matthew D.Click to read more
Winter Haven, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield, Medicare + 3 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Dr. Christa Lorgeat, APRN, DNP, is an advanced practice registered nurse in family medicine and provides exemplary care for patients aged five through adulthood. She is trained in primary care, women's health, pediatric care, and gerontology. She earned her doctorate in nursing practice degree from ...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner
5.00
·10 reviews
Really friendly - Apr 13, 2022 by Matthew D.Click to read more
68.5 mi · 2050 Havendale Blvd NW, Ste B, Winter Haven, FL 33881
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield, Medicare + 3 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Dr. Christa Lorgeat, APRN, DNP, is an advanced practice registered nurse in family medicine and provides exemplary care for patients aged five through adulthood. She is trained in primary care, women's health, pediatric care, and gerontology. She earned her doctorate in nursing practice degree from ...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner
5.00
·10 reviews
Really friendly - Apr 13, 2022 by Matthew D.Click to read more
68.5 mi · 2050 Havendale Blvd NW, Ste B, Winter Haven, FL 33881
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield, Medicare + 3 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Dr. Christa Lorgeat, APRN, DNP, is an advanced practice registered nurse in family medicine and provides exemplary care for patients aged five through adulthood. She is trained in primary care, women's health, pediatric care, and gerontology. She earned her doctorate in nursing practice degree from ...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
4.27
·220 reviews
Office staff was great. Never actually saw the doctor. I only interacted with PA and staff during my annual wellness check. - Jul 16, 2025 by Scott K.Click to read more
69.5 mi · 15200 S Tamiami Trail, Suite 116, Fort Myers, FL 33908
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 17 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
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Dr. Jaynier Moya is a skilled internist at Moya Medical in Pembroke Pines, FL. He holds a medical degree from Universidad de Ciencias Médicas de La Habana and completed his residency in Internal Medicine at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center. He is also board-certified by the American Board of Internal...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner
4.17
·18 reviews
Everyone was so nice. Little to no wait time. I didn’t meet this nurse specifically but the ones I did meet were great . - Oct 24, 2025 by De’ja C.Click to read more
69.5 mi · 15200 S Tamiami Trail, Suite 116, Fort Myers, FL 33908
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 17 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
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As an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, I am dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to help you achieve and maintain optimal health. I am here to listen to your concerns, guide you through treatment options, and support you in making informed decisions about your health. Togethe...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner
70.5 mi · 16050 S Tamiami Trail, STE 109, Fort Myers, FL 33908
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare + 6 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
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SELF PAYMENT SERVICES – PIRIS MEDICAL CENTER PRIMARY CARE MEDICINE - NEW PATIENT HEALTH PACKAGE Men health package: $235 • Basic blood work (CBC, BMP, LIPID PANEL, KIDNEY PANEL, THYROID PANEL, HBA1C, TESTOSTERONE, VIT B12) • Physical exam • EKG • Telehealth for lab results Women health package: $2...Click to read more
Adult Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
Lake Alfred, FL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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My name is Marisol Caraballo, APRN (NPI: 1851700553), and caring for others has been the purpose of my life for more than 30 years. Throughout my career, I’ve worked in adult and geriatric primary care, rheumatology, and spent 21 years in intensive care, where I learned the importance of compassion,...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner
2.44
·9 reviews
I went for my appointment that I arranged through zocdoc. I was not seen because there wasn’t really an appointment available on the day/time stated online. Another gentleman behind me had the same situation. So I would never trust making an appointment through zocdoc again. - Jan 8, 2026 by Mary El...Click to read more
74 mi · 1306 Homestead Rd, Ste 1306, Lehigh Acres, FL 33936
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 18 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
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Dayami Rosales has lived in Florida state for the past 9 years. She is a foreign physician who graduated in 1996 in Cuba. She obtained her BSN from University of Sacred Heart in San Juan, Puerto Rico in 2012 and graduated from AGM University in South Florida Campus in Miami Lakes with her Master of ...Click to read more
Internist
74 mi · 1220 Business Way, Ste 2, Lehigh Acres, FL 33936
Accepting new patients ·
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Dr. Jerilee Lomas is an Internal Medicine Physician and has served the greater Lehigh Acres community for over 15 years. Dr. Lomas completed her undergraduate education at University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida, majoring in Biology and Psychology. Then she went on to NOVA Southwestern Unive...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner
5.00
·3 reviews
The No was caring and asked a lot of questions - Jun 1, 2026 by Levon F.Click to read more
74 mi · 14306 7th St, Dade City, FL 33523
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 33 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Ms. Melissa Nelson is a highly trusted family nurse practitioner. She provides in-person services at Professional Health Care of Pinellas in Dade City, FL. As part of her formal education, Ms. Nelson acquired a master's degree in nursing from Post University. She strives to stay current with the ad...Click to read more
Internist
76 mi · 33920 US-19 N, Unit 222, Palm Harbor, FL 34684
Accepts Medicare + 1 more
Accepting new patients ·
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As your Cardiologist and Board Certified Vascular Specialist, Dr. Saiyad is committed to providing the care you and your loved ones deserve. He earned his Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery from B.J. Medical College, Ahmedabad, completed his Residency in Internal Medicine at Cook County Ho...Click to read more
Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
Bonita Springs, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 88 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
Bonita Springs, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 88 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Ms. Campbell has over 5 years of experience working in skilled nursing and retirement centers. She earned her Master's in Nursing from the University of South Florida and is certified in wound and ostomy care.Click to read more
Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
Bonita Springs, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 88 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Debra Dooley is a Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner who earned her Master's in Nursing from Florida Gulf Coast University. Originally from New England, she began her career as an EMT while completing her nursing education. Debra has over 20 years of combined medical experience, including hos...Click to read more
Internist (Virtual)
Bonita Springs, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 88 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Dr. Jim Liu is a physician board certified in internal medicine and has diverse and in-depth experience with both outpatient and inpatient medicine. He zestfully practices hospitalist medicine in Naples, FL. He attended Harvard University for his undergraduate degree and premedical studies and gradu...Click to read more
Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
Bonita Springs, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 88 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I have been a Nurse Practitioner for two years, following four years as a registered nurse in the acute care setting. I earned my Master’s in Family Nursing from South University. I am passionate about the health and well-being of my patients. In my free time, I enjoy going to the beach, cooking,...Click to read more
Family Physician (Virtual)
Orlando, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 16 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Dr. Patel was born in London, England, and moved to the United States at a young age, eventually settling in North Carolina. His warm personality, southern hospitality, and patient-centered approach have helped him build strong relationships with patients throughout his career. Dr. Patel earned rec...Click to read more
Family Physician (Virtual)
Orlando, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 17 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Dr. Sonita Khan is a compassionate, board-certified family physician at OneMed Florida in Lake Nona, Florida. She provides comprehensive primary care for adults through both in-person and virtual visits, serving patients throughout Orlando and across the state of Florida. Dr. Khan earned her medica...Click to read more
Family Physician (Virtual)
4.00
·4 reviews
Orlando, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Medicare
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Adult Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
4.80
·10 reviews
I really enjoyed talking about my health with Candice! She listened to my concerns and was very great at communicating our next steps. I’ve been very weary of doctor visits because of past experiences but I’m so happy I booked an appointment with Candice! I felt heard, listened too, and cared for. T...Click to read more
Oakland, FL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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I am an Institute for Functional Medicine Certified Practitioner. I am also a dual board certified Nurse Practitioner specialized in Family Practice (University of South Florida 2015) as well as, Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse (University of Central Florida 2020). I obtained independent practice...Click to read more
Adult Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
Orlando, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 42 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Family Physician (Virtual)
4.36
·50 reviews
Great physician, and great offices. Wait time was far too long. 40 mins to get seen (triaged), 25 mins waiting for provider, and 20 mins waiting for labs and follow ip paper work (left before they got it to me). Would come back if there is QI on timing. - Apr 17, 2026 by Ernesto N.Click to read more
Orlando, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 2 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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What is your patient care philosophy? I believe in caring for every patient as I would for my own family, treating them with kindness, respect, and empathy. My approach focuses on listening closely, understanding each person’s unique needs, and working collaboratively to create a care plan that supp...Click to read more
Adult Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
Orlando, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a doctorate-prepared, dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. I earned my Doctor of Nursing Practice from Frontier Nursing University, following my Master's and Bachelor's degrees in Nursing from Nova So...Click to read more
Internist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
That was a SUPERB experience ! Excellent team, from the front desk to Dr Stephanie Lopez Thank you ?? - Jun 12, 2026 by Fernando F.Click to read more
Orlando, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 17 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Dr. Stephanie Lopez Orizondo is a board-certified internal medicine physician who provides comprehensive primary care for adults at OneMed Florida in Orlando, Florida. She is dedicated to helping patients achieve their health goals through preventive care, chronic disease management, and personalize...Click to read more
Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
1.50
·2 reviews
No show!!!! - May 23, 2025 by Anne C.Click to read more
Orlando, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Medicare
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Dr. Nkoronye is an Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and hospitalist in internal medicine at one of the largest hospitals in Florida. She earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice and Master's in Nursing from the University of South Alabama, and her Bachelor's degree from Florida Hospital ...Click to read more
Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
4.44
·18 reviews
Great appointment! I worked give 10 stars if possible. - Jul 27, 2021 by Cassandra H.Click to read more
Orlando, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Medicare
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
***Please read prior to booking appointment*** Please be advised: - We only accept straight Medicaid; unfortunately, we are NOT contracted with Medicaid HMOs such as Staywell, Humana, Sunshine State, and Simply Healthcare. - In addition to health insurances, we are accepting self-pay patients. ...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
5.00
·3 reviews
She was very prompt with what I needed. She was thorough and professional during our conversation. She was very knowledgeable with medications. by KMClick to read more
Orlando, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Medicare
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Ms. Kimberly Bertot is a family nurse practitioner practicing at Orlando Tele Clinic in Orlando, FL. She is also a visiting affiliate at AdventHealth East Orlando. She welcomes patients of all ages and genders suffering from anxiety, vaginal infections, hyperactivity disorder, urinary tract infectio...Click to read more
Family Physician (Virtual)
4.94
·70 reviews
Good - Apr 12, 2022 by Elmostafa G.Click to read more
Winter Park, FL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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ABOUT HIS HEALTH MISSION The mission of HIS HEALTH is to deliver exceptional online care to men experiencing conditions such as erectile dysfunction (ED), low testosterone, depression, anxiety, weight gain, hair loss, male pattern baldness, and certain skin conditions. We provide private, perso...Click to read more
Calendar Check
1-3 days

Average time it takes to be seen by a provider

Doctor
100k

Verified providers with a 4.8 average rating

Primary Care Physician
15+ years

In the business of finding quality care for patients

Patients trust Zocdoc
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Frequently asked questions

How can I make a same-day appointment with a Family Physician in Sarasota?

On average, patients who use Zocdoc can search for a Family Physician in Sarasota, book an appointment, and see the Family Physician within 24 hours. Same-day appointments are often available, you can search for real-time availability of Family Physicians in Sarasota who accept your insurance and make an appointment online.


How can I find a Sarasota Family Physician who takes my insurance?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a Sarasota Family Physician who takes your insurance. Just choose your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. If you’re not sure which plan you have, you can use Zocdoc’s insurance checker to find out.


How can I book an appointment online with a Family Physician in Sarasota?

Zocdoc is a free online service that helps patients find Family Physicians in Sarasota and book appointments instantly. You can search for Sarasota Family Physicians by symptom or visit reason. Then, choose your insurance plan. Based on that information, you’ll see a list of providers who meet your search criteria, along with their available appointment slots.


How can I find a female Family Physician in Sarasota?

When you search for Sarasota Family Physicians on Zocdoc, you can filter your results by gender, in addition to other criteria. That way, you’ll only see Family Physicians in Sarasota who match your preferences.


How can I find a Sarasota Family Physician who sees patients after hours?

On Zocdoc, you can search specifically for Sarasota Family Physicians with availability after 5 p.m.


How can I find a top-rated Family Physician in Sarasota?

You can use Zocdoc to find Family Physicians in Sarasota who are highly rated by other patients. These ratings are based on verified reviews submitted by real patients. Every time a patient completes an appointment booked on Zocdoc, they’re invited to review their experience. Each review must comply with Zocdoc’s guidelines.


How can I find a video visit with a Family Physician online in Sarasota?

Family Physicians in Sarasota on Zocdoc who see patients through online video visits will have a purple video icon on their profiles. You can also filter your search results to show only Family Physicians who offer video visits.


Are video visits with a Family Physician online covered by my insurance?

Most insurers provide coverage for video visits at the same cost as in-person visits. You can search on Zocdoc specifically for Family Physicians in Sarasota who accept your insurance for video visits by selecting your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. We recommend you check with your insurance carrier directly to confirm your coverage and out of pocket costs for video visits.


How can I find a Family Physician in Sarasota who sees patients in the morning or evening?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a Family Physician who has appointments available before 10:00 am, or after 5:00 pm. Just choose the special hours filter at the top of our search page.


How can I find a Family Physician in Sarasota who sees patients during the weekend?

Zocdoc let's you see real-time availability for Family Physicians in Sarasota. Many Family Physicians offer appointments on Saturdays and Sundays.


Understanding the role of a family physician

A family physician or doctor treats the whole family as a primary care medical professional. Many doctors focus on a single medicine field. Family physicians, on the other hand, have extensive training in all areas of medicine. They treat you regardless of your age or gender throughout your life. They attend to your physical, mental, and emotional needs. Family physicians get to know their patients and develop a friendly rapport with their entire family. They listen to and record their medical history to understand better how to help them make health-related decisions.


Your family physician is responsible for diagnosing and treating acute and chronic illnesses. They also provide regular health screenings and lifestyle advice. Your family physician may also refer you to a specialist if your condition needs assistance.


Reasons to see a family physician near you

Everyone should have a family physician, even if they do not have a health problem. Avoiding or preventing a health problem rather than treating or managing one is always better. Your family physician can help you keep your family healthy. They can assist you with the following:


  • Chronic disease management: Family physicians can manage and treat various chronic diseases and conditions, including arthritis, diabetes, high blood pressure (hypertension), heart disease, kidney disease, high cholesterol, skin problems, and breathing problems caused by asthma and COPD. In collaboration with specialists, they can also prescribe medication refills for chronic conditions.
  • Referral to specialists: If you have a condition that necessitates the services of a specialist, your family physician can refer you to qualified specialists. When you start treatment with a specialist, the doctors can work together to plan your prescriptions and monitor your progress.
  • Medical care for injuries or illnesses: A family physician can treat the condition without referring you to a specialist if you or a family member is ill or injured. They are experts in simple sprains and fractures, pneumonia, flu and cold symptoms, bronchitis, infections, seasonal allergies, and other illnesses.
  • Performing routine examinations: Family doctors perform the standard examinations, which include annual physicals, newborn and well-child checkups, sports physicals, men's health screenings, prostate exams, and female pelvic exams.


What can you expect from a visit to the family physician?

You can expect a variety of things depending on the reason for visiting. Your family physician may perform the following procedures:


  • Vital signs examination (blood pressure, body temperature, heartbeat, and breathing rate)
  • Routine blood tests to check for issues such as excessive cholesterol or diabetes
  • Abdominal examination
  • Immunizations
  • A head and neck examination
  • Skin examination
  • Men's health tests such as prostate exams, aortic aneurysm screenings, and colon exam referrals
  • Women's health tests such as pap smears, osteoporosis screening, mammography referrals, and sexual health screening
  • Screenings for infants and children for growth and development


Your doctor may also discuss your diet, lifestyle habits, medications, mental health, and other concerns.


How do you choose a family physician?

Family medicine is difficult to understand because it deals with various medical issues. Your family doctor must be capable of diagnosing a wide range of symptoms. Here are some pointers for selecting a family physician near you:


  • Look for in-network doctors: Most health insurance companies in your area have negotiated reduced rates with specific hospitals and physicians. If you visit in-network family doctors, you will pay less out of pocket and avoid unexpected co-pays and fees.
  • Check to see if they provide specialized care: When choosing a doctor, it is critical to consider your family's specific needs. If a family member requires specialized care, ensure the family practice you choose has someone who can provide it.
  • Consider the distance from your home: Many overlook distance as a logistical factor, but it is critical. Having your family physician close by is better, especially during emergencies.


What is the difference between a primary care physician, a family doctor, and an internist?

With different types of medical practitioners, it may take time to decide which one to see. When you are sick, with a cold or something more serious, your first point of contact would be a primary care physician (PCP). A PCP refers to any of the following types of doctors:


  • family medicine practitioner
  • nurse practitioner
  • physician assistant
  • internist
  • pediatrician
  • geriatrician


A PCP is qualified to treat people of all ages for various medical concerns, including prevention and maintenance. However, they will refer you to a specialist if your condition is beyond their scope. A PCP may also coordinate with other specialists to treat chronic health conditions.


A family physician can care for every family member at all stages of life. They are trained to provide care from infancy to old age and can treat problems ranging from bronchitis to high blood pressure. If your family doctor is treating other family members, they can keep a check on risk factors for genetic health problems like obesity and heart disease. They will also refer you to a specialist if your condition is beyond their scope. A doctor being aware of your personal and family medical history can be exceptionally comforting for many people. 


Family medicine doctors study at accredited schools of medicine or osteopathic medicine. They should complete four years of medical school, followed by a three or four-year residency. Family physicians are certified by the American Board of Family Medicine (ABFM) and the American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians (AOBFP). They also require a license to practice in the state where they want to work.


Unlike a family physician who treats people of all ages, an internist only treats older adolescents and adults. An internist treats various medical issues like a family doctor and would refer you to a specialist for complicated conditions. Internists must also complete four years of medical school and three years of residency, including specialties in adult medicine like cardiology and endocrinology. Internists treat conditions developed throughout adult life. They treat minor issues like sinus or broken wrists and can also treat and supervise more severe conditions like heart disease and diabetes. 


Eight effective strategies to cope with doctor anxiety

Do you dread annual appointments, immunizations, and health screenings so much that you reschedule them every time? Do you experience dizziness, excessive sweating, shivers, and rapid heartbeat at the thought or sight of a doctor? Have you previously delayed necessary treatments? You are likely suffering from iatrophobia, meaning fear of doctors. From negative medical experiences in the past to having multiple chronic conditions with painful treatments, there could be many reasons for your anxiety. 


The good news is that you do not have to live with it lifelong and put your health at stake. You can use various strategies to deal with it better and guarantee a hassle-free experience every time. Here are eight helpful tips to get you started: 


  • Make sure to choose a family physician with a good understanding of iatrophobia and experience dealing with patients who struggle with it.  
  • Schedule the appointments on a day and time when you are not stressed about professional deadlines and personal responsibilities. 
  • Opt for telemedicine, including video visits, phone calls, and text messages, whenever possible. 
  • Prepare for the appointment well in advance. Write down your symptoms, concerns, and queries, gather your medical records, prepare a list of your medications, and know your family history. In addition, call the doctor's office to know what to expect during your visit so that there are no surprises. 
  • Ask a loved one, such as a family member or friend, to accompany you during the appointment for emotional support. 
  • Practice relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, guided imagery, and progressive muscle relaxation.
  • To distract yourself while you are in the waiting room, try reading a book, listening to music, or watching funny videos.
  • Discuss your medical appointment anxiety with a mental health professional. 


How do you find the best family physician near you in Sarasota, Florida?

Since a family physician looks after the health of everyone in your family, it's essential to choose a doctor who can recognize everyone's needs and cater to their care accordingly.


If you're looking for a family medicine physician in Sarasota, Florida, Zocdoc makes it simple. 

You can find a list of Sarasota's best family physicians on our convenient and user-friendly website. In-network doctors who accept your insurance plan can also help you save money on consultations and clinical procedures (if you avail of any). 


Stay calm if you can’t find your insurance plan on the website—we have a viable solution for it. You can go to your account profile and upload an image of your insurance card. We will scan it and suggest your plan. Do you have any more related queries? Our patient help center page will probably have the required answers, so please check it out!


You can also learn more about these doctors by reading their profiles. Their profile will include pertinent information such as education and training, board certifications, clinical interests, etc. 

To make a better decision, you can also read the verified reviews of their prior patients.


After choosing a family physician near you, you can immediately schedule an in-person or online consultation from the comfort of your home. All Zocdoc bookings are simple, secure, and free!


Family physician statistics in Florida

Some people choose to have a family physician as their primary care provider. According to data from the United Health Foundation, about 262.9 primary care providers exist per 100,000 people in Florida. The number includes family physicians, general practitioners, obstetricians and gynecologists, pediatricians, geriatricians, internal medicine doctors, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners. Regarding primary care providers, Florida ranks 20th among all U.S. states. 


The data highlights a considerable scope for improvement in primary care provision in the state.

Family physicians treat chronic illnesses, usually in collaboration with other subspecialists. They provide ongoing, personalized care for severe health issues like heart disease, stroke, hypertension, diabetes, cancer, and asthma. According to data published by the United Health Foundation, as of 2022, about 12.2% of individuals in Florida reported having diabetes. Another report on the same website mentions that about 9.3% of people in Florida reported suffering from asthma as of 2022. Moreover, as of 2022, about 9.9% of people in the state had angina or coronary heart disease, a stroke, a heart attack, or myocardial infarction.


In some cases, such conditions are life-threatening. Having a family doctor can help you protect your health and obtain the required treatment and care as and when necessary.


Sources

WebMD

Familydoctor.org

United Health Foundation[1]

United Health Foundation[2]

United Health Foundation[3]

United Health Foundation[4]

Cleveland Clinic[1]

Cleveland Clinic[2]

Healthline

Medical News Today

GoodRx

Optum


The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately.

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