CARE FOR CHRONIC CONDITIONS

Care for Chronic Illnesses in Washington, D.C.

Hibiscus Medical is proud to offer comprehensive care for chronic conditions. We understand that chronic conditions are best managed with teamwork, and Dr. Frederick aims to build a relationship of trust and compassion with each patient. Dr. Frederick ensures that patients fully understand the implications and symptoms of their health situation, and builds customized treatment plans to help patients meet their health goals and live as comfortably as possible.

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Benefits of Care for Chronic Conditions

According to the CDC, every 6 out of 10 adults in the United States have at least one chronic disease, with 4 out of 10 adults having two or more chronic conditions. Having a trusted physician monitor and continually treat your chronic condition provides many benefits. Some benefits of care for chronic conditions at Hibiscus Medical in Washington, D.C. include:

  • Detailed, personalized care with a physician that understands the extent of your chronic condition and how it ties into your overall health

  • Medication management

  • Continual monitoring of symptoms and adjusting of the treatment plan as needed

  • Regularly scheduled appointments

  • Detailed medical records that make collaboration between Dr. Frederick and other members of your healthcare team easy and convenient

Chronic Conditions We Treat

As a board certified physician, Debralee Frederick, MD, is experienced in treating a variety of chronic conditions. Chronic conditions that we treat include but are not limited to:

Insulin-dependent diabetes, also known as Type 1 diabetes, causes the body to destroy insulin cells. While the cause of insulin-dependent diabetes is unknown, it usually presents itself before age 15. Insulin-dependent diabetes must be closely monitored and managed with insulin shots and blood glucose testing. Patients with Type 1 diabetes will also be encouraged to maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise schedule.

Cardiovascular disease is the umbrella term for conditions affecting the blood vessels and the heart. 5 main types of conditions fall under cardiovascular disease, each varying in severity and treatment:

  • Heart disease
  • Heart attack
  • Stroke
  • Heart failure
  • Arrhythmia

Chronic kidney disease occurs when the kidneys cannot filter blood as they should. While there are many possible causes of chronic kidney disease, it is often caused by high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease and/or genetics.

COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is an umbrella term for conditions affecting airflow and breathing. Although there is currently no cure for COPD, there are many treatment options to reduce symptoms, including oxygen therapy. Oxygen therapy, or supplemental oxygen, allows patients to breathe better and be more active.

While each chronic condition is different, treatment for non-progressive chronic diseases usually includes medication and lifestyle changes such as improved diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep and the elimination or reduction of tobacco and alcohol use. These measures can effectively manage non-progressive chronic conditions, and allow patients to live a comfortable and normal life. Many progressive conditions do not have a cure— however, Dr. Frederick will work with you to manage symptoms as best as she possibly can and closely monitor your progression.

Causes of Chronic Conditions

Chronic health conditions can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, family history and lifestyle choices. However, a few key risk factors greatly increase your risk of developing a chronic condition. These factors include:

  • Tobacco use

  • Excessive alcohol consumption

  • Poor diet and nutrition

  • Lack of physical activity

Complex Chronic Care Coordination

In addition to standard care for chronic conditions, Hibiscus Medical is proud to offer complex chronic care coordination. Patients who have two or more chronic conditions that are expected to last at least 12 months, or until the patient’s death, qualify for the complex chronic care coordination program. Under this program, the Hibiscus Medical team will:

  • See the patient for a set amount of time each month.

  • Work with other members of the patient’s team, such as social workers, behavioral specialists, etc.

  • Develop a customized treatment and symptom management plan, and adjust the plan as needed.

If you have any questions about complex chronic care coordination or would like to know if a family member qualifies for this program, please give us a call at 202-350-1546.

COMPASSIONATE MEDICAL CARE FOR EVERYONE

From Your Internal Medicine Doctor

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ADDRESS

430 Galloway St NE, Suite A
Washington, D.C. 20011

PHONE

Call us
202-350-1546

HOURS

Monday – Friday
9am – 5pm