Author Archives: dzadmin

10.19.16
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Learn About Concierge Plans

Looking for quality time with your doctor to discuss medical issues? When you have a direct relationship with your doctor, he or she is in tune with your needs. This relationship is possible when you go to a concierge doctor.  Concierge services, like those provided by myself, Dr. Kordonowy of Internal Medicine, Lipid & Wellness of Fort Myers, offer patients personalized and unlimited access to the doctor. In my practice, I offer four different concierge memberships: basic, gold, premier, and platinum. Below, I will discuss the details of each plan, as well as the benefits of signing up for a concierge health plan.

Basic – The Basic concierge health plan is for patients ages 16 to 50 years old and costs $49 per month with a one-time enrollment fee of $150. With this service, the patient receives:

  • 3 office visits per year including a full physical examination annually.
  • Annual physical and comprehensive lab profile (this alone retails for more than 150 dollars).
  • Same day appointments one established.
  • Online access to medical records/results via a patient portal (private e-mail attached to your chart).
  • Online messaging with Dr. Kordonowy and nurses via the e-mail portal
  • Free after hour phone consults- my normal after hours call fee is waived for members.
  • Additional labs at highly discounted rates.
  • Annual seasonal flu vaccine.
  • Tetanus booster if indicated.
  • Body fat analysis.
  • Antioxidant score (biophotonic scan) annually.
  • My Remote monitoring dashboard

Gold – The Gold concierge health plan is for patients ages 50 to 65 years old and costs $89 per month with a one-time enrollment fee of $150. With this service, the patient receives:

  • Unlimited office visits.
  • Annual physical and comprehensive lab profile.
  • Same day appointments once established.
  • Online access to medical records/results via the patient e-mail portal.
  • Online messaging with Dr. Kordonowy and nurses via the patient e-mail portal.
  • Free after hour phone consults.
  • Additional labs at highly discounted rates.
  • Annual seasonal flu vaccine.
  • Vaccine boosters when needed – tetanus, Tdap.
  • Body fat analysis.
  • Antioxidant score (biophotonic scan).
  • Hospital Advocacy (Premier Inpatient Advocate Service™) available at an hourly rate
  • My Remote monitoring dashboard

Premier – $1,750 per year with no enrollment fee. This product is open to anyone interested and features the unique Inpatient Advocate Service™ Program. Dr. Kordonowy requires that all Medicare patients join the practice as Premier members. This membership plan is payment in exchange for services not covered by Medicare. With this service, the patient receives:

  • 24/7 direct phone access to Dr. Kordonowy’s private cell phone.
  • Same day appointments for established patients.
  • Online access to medical records/results.
  • Online messaging with Dr. Kordonowy and nurses via the e-mail portal.
  • Free after hour phone consults.
  • Concierge services not covered by Medicare.
  • Body fat analysis.
  • Antioxidant score (biophotonic scan).
  • Hospital Advocacy (Premier Inpatient Advocate Service™) -unlimited hours and 7 days a week visits while in the hospital. I have privileges at Health Park, Gulf Coast and Lee Downtown.
  • My Remote monitoring dashboard

Platinum – The Platinum concierge health plan is patients 16+ and costs $2,500 per year with no enrollment fee. With this service, the patient receives:

  • 24/7 direct phone access to Dr. Kordonowy’s private cell phone.
  • Same day appointments.
  • Unlimited office visits.
  • Annual physical and comprehensive lab profile.
  • Same day appointments.
  • Annual seasonal flu vaccine.
  • Vaccine boosters when needed.
  • Online access to medical records/results via the e-mail portal.
  • Online messaging with Dr. Kordonowy and nurses via the email portal.
  • Free after hour phone consults.
  • Cardiovascular stress test annually.
  • Advanced lipoprotein testing at highly discounted rates.
  • Concierge services not covered by Medicare
  • Three dietitian visits.
  • Body fat analysis.
  • Antioxidant score (biophotonic scan).
  • Hospital Advocacy (Premier Inpatient Advocate Service™) -unlimited hours with 7 day a week visits while in the hospital.
  • My Remote monitoring dashboard

Concierge plans and doctors provide a more comprehensive level of care to the patient. A concierge contract puts the patient back in charge of their care instead of insurance or government interference.  Spending the right amount of time with the patient while offer a high level of accessibility and service is the goal.  With more time and access to a doctor, a patient is able to fully and thoroughly discus symptoms, ask questions and discuss their issues and concerns. A long term relationship with your doctor allows them to understand the patient’s history, know “total person” and thus limit health risks from unnecessary testing and referrals.

If you’re looking for a high level of service from your doctor, a concierge doctor, like Dr. Kordonowy, may be right for you.  Concierge memberships are limited. To book a consult with Dr. Kordonowy or to discuss selecting a plan, call 239-363-3005, ext. 200 or click here.

10.04.16
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Nova Oculus Partners Develop Revolutionary Technology

Try to imagine how it feels to look at your phone and not see anything but a dark spot in the center of it? This is what it is like to live with age-related macular degeneration. It affects all aspects of life from driving a car to the store to reading the newspaper or dialing a phone number. These everyday tasks that most people perform without issues are very difficult for anyone suffering from age-related macular degeneration. Nova Oculus Partners has developed a revolutionary new technology that could potentially slow the progression of the condition and improve patient vision.

Age-related macular degeneration is a caused by a thinning of the macula which covers the retina and the hardening of blood vessels and capillaries leading to the center of the eye. It does not happen overnight. This is a condition that worsens over time. This disease of the eyes impairs the patient’s central vision and can even affect how the eye registers contrasts and colors.

The innovative team at Nova Oculus Partners has developed an effective non-invasive treatment for dry age-related macular degeneration. It is a simple procedure performed by the patient’s physician in which the patient wears a special type of headset that facilitates the delivery of a low level micro-current to specific points on the outer eye. With the eyes closed, the machine targets spots on and around the eye that stimulate a response at the retinal level. The result is an increase in blood flow and oxygen to the eye’s cells. This, in turn, encourages more nutrition to be exchanged through the membranes in the eye. A procedure takes about an hour to complete.

While the technology still needs to complete the regulatory approval process with the FDA, it is expected to be the future of treating patients with dry AMD. They are located at 74-900 Highway 111, Suite 127, Indian Wells, California 92210. Read more about our exciting new technology on our website or contact us at (760) 292-2812 for more information.

09.28.16
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Immune System Boosting Foods

Germs and viruses are always around for people to pick up. To lower your risk of infection, wash your hands often, use hand sanitizers, keep your surroundings clean, get a flu shot and do not sharing drinks. Good hygiene isn’t the only way to keep away sickness.  If you focus on building a better immune system in your diet, your body will be on guard to fight off any sickness that comes its way.

Particular foods are known to keep your immune system strong. Your daily diet should be well rounded.  Do yourself and immune system a favor by adding the following foods into your diet daily.

Oysters – Oysters contain zinc, which has virus-fighting power to it. Zinc helps activate white blood cells. It also helps with healing wounds. Oysters also contain selenium, which helps white blood cells produce cytokines (proteins) that clear viruses out of the body.

Spinach – Spinach, which is full of folate, which helps the body make new cells and repair DNA.

Yogurt – Yogurt comes with probiotics (live, active cultures) which are healthy bacteria that keep the gut and intestines free from the attack of  germs .

Tea – Whether you prefer green, white, or black, tea is filled with polyphenols and flavonoids, which are known to fight off diseases. They are antioxidants that target cell-damaging free radicals and destroy them.

Sweet potatoes and carrots – These vegetables contain beta-carotene, which turns into vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A gets rid of free radicals in the body and gives a boost to the immune system.

Broccoli – Broccoli is filled with vitamins A and C, along with antioxidants like glutathione, which all protect the body.

Citrus fruits – Grapefruit, oranges, lemons, limes, clementines, and tangerines are loaded with vitamin C, which fight infections by increasing the production of white blood cells in the body.

Other immunity-boosting foods: Red bell peppers, mushrooms, garlic, ginger, almonds, poultry, kiwi, shellfish, and  turmeric.

Food can be your medicine. With a diet rich in nutrient-dense food, you can  build a stronger immune system so that you find yourself getting sick less. If you need help with creating yourself a proper diet, contact Dr. Kordonowy of Internal Medicine, Lipid & Wellness in Fort Myers for a nutrition consultation. To book an appointment, call 239-362-3005, Ext. 200 or click here.

09.09.16
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Brilliant New Technology from Nova Oculus Partners

Nova Oculus Partners was founded in 2014 with a brilliant new technology that will help those with age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The goal of Nova Oculus is to manufacture and lease the machine to doctors and eye care professionals so that they can treat their patients suffering from AMD.

Nova Oculus uses BioCurrent Therapy to facilitate the movement of oxygen and nutrients within the cells of the retina. This non-invasive procedure uses low current frequencies to stimulate the desired response in the retina. The process can improve and/or restore the patient’s retinal function.

Since its inception, the founders of Nova Oculus continue to consult and work side by side with a team of professionals who are knowledgeable in eye health, production of new technology, and well versed in legal matters. A few of those people include:

George O’Clock Ph.D.
Mr. O’Clock is the Chief Science Advisor of Nova Oculus Partners. He brings a wealth of knowledge in treating visual diseases. He is the inventor of the electrotherapeutic device that has been successful in treating many types of eye diseases. His advice and guidance are invaluable in making the new technology a success.

Jeffrey N. Gibbs
Mr. Gibbs has extensive knowledge of the law in product approvals, marketing, and enforcement in regards to the Food and Drug Administration. His experience includes, but is not limited to, the regulation of medical devices.

Dr. Michael Samuel M.D.
Dr. Samuel specializes in diagnosing and treating those with retinal disease. He, along with a fellow physician, founded The 41 Location Retina Institute. He frequently treats patients with AMD and is a wonderful contributor to Nova Oculus Partners’ vision

Walter O’Rourke
Mr. O’Rourke is a master in marketing and sales having led high performance sales teams. He is an entrepreneur and was the CEO of Dialysis Solutions, Inc. He has a proven record of successful growth for businesses.

The entire team of advisors and doctors are making Nova Oculus Partners a success. While the technology still needs to complete a regulatory approval process with the FDA, it is expected to be the future of treating patients with AMD. The team continues to work tirelessly on making this technology available to physicians worldwide. Their office is located at 74-900 Highway 111, Suite 127, Indian Wells, California 92210. Read more about our exciting new technology on our website or contact us at (760) 292-2812 for more information.

09.09.16
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Nova Oculus Partners Discover a Method to Treat Age-Related Macular Degeneration

A deterioration of the central vision of a patient’s eye is the cause for Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD). Most affected are over the age of 60 years old. The good news is that Nova Oculus Partners have created a specific technology that will treat AMD.

For those who suffer with AMD, their eyes form a “black cloud” in the central vision. This makes it hard to take care of everyday tasks such as reading, watching television, working on a computer, driving a car, and texting on a phone. This breakdown of the macular in the retina can really affect a person’s quality of life. The patient’s vision progressively deteriorates over time. Colors and contrasts in objects are impacted.

The scientists behind the technology that Nova Oculus Partners has developed are a dedicated team of individuals who seek to help those regain their vision. The photoreceptors in the macula need to be healthier. This is done by improving the metabolism of the cells in the eye. By creating healthier photoreceptors, this creates the potential for the patient’s vision to improve.

Used for all types of macular degeneration, this new non-invasive, effective treatment for AMD is the future of helping patients. Nova Oculus Partners uses a BioCurrent Therapy technology that emits targeted frequencies to stimulate a response at the retinal level. Blood vessels and cells then receive an increased flow of oxygen. This allows the delivery of more nutrition to the cells.

During the one-hour procedure, a low level of electric current is applied to the eye. A special designed eye goggle is used to deliver the current. This has been shown to improve the movement of nutrition from the patient’s blood to the cells of the eye. These special goggles apply the electrical current to four places on the closed eye. The four sites consist of the upper left lid, the lower left lid, upper right lid and lower right lid. In a short period of time, 40 seconds, the electrical current is delivered effectively.

While the technology still needs to complete a regulatory approval process with the FDA, it is expected to be the future of treating patients with age-related macular degeneration. We are located at 74-900 Highway 111, Suite 127, Indian Wells, California 92210 Read more about our exciting new technology on our website or contact us at (760) 292-2812 for more information

09.09.16
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Nova Oculus Partners Mission for AMD

Nova Oculus Partners have developed and plan to manufacture a medical device to treat age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Optometrists and other medical professionals will be able to lease the device so they can treat their patients who suffer from AMD.

Over 10 million people in the United States have a form of age-related macular degeneration, according to the National Eye Institute. The Institute also indicated that more than 1 in 10 people over 70 yrs. old has some vision loss due to AMD. Nova Oculus Partners realized how many people were affected by this disease and decided to create a new technology to help them regain their lost vision. This unique technology is at the forefront of ophthalmologic science.

Age-related macular degeneration is the number one cause of legal blindness in adults over the age of 50 years. The “baby boomers” are all over this age range. As this generation ages, there will be an increased number of people in the United States with AMD. Nova Oculus Partners will be able to meet a growing population of people with macular degeneration.

The team at Nova Oculus Partners brings a variety of disciplines to the company. Michael Samuel M.D., our Medical Advisor, whom is nationally known for research, clinical work, and surgery. He was a part of a team that performed the first surgical implant of stem cells for dry macular degeneration. We are very fortunate to have him as our medical advisor. Dr. George O’Clock, Ph.D. is our Chief Science Advisor. The extensive experience that he has in technologies that successfully treats eye disease makes him the ideal advisor for this mission.

While the technology still needs to complete a regulatory approval process with the FDA, it is expected to be the future of treating patients with AMD.

Read more about our exciting new technology on our website or contact us for more information. please call us at (760) 292-2812 or visit our website. They are located at 74-900 Highway 111, Suite 127, Indian Wells, California 92210.

09.09.16
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Facts About Hypothyroidism

If you’re struggling to lose weight or have trouble sleeping,  you could have an underlying condition: an underactive thyroid, also known as hypothyroidism.

In a survey, between 0.1-2 percent of the U.S. population have hypothyroidism.  Some data says up to 12% of people will develop a thyroid condition in their life. Around 20 million Americans have some form of a thyroid disease.  With woman, it’s even more common to have a thyroid problem- five to eight times more likely.

Below, I will discuss some basics about hypothyroidism. Not everyone experiences the same thing from this thyroid disease. It’s best to talk to your doctor about your concerns to properly diagnose your issues.

When a person has hypothyroidism, his or her body doesn’t produce enough of thyroxine. This is a chemical produced by the thyroid gland, and it regulates cellular metabolism.  Right now in the United States, one common cause of this disorder is inflammation of the thyroid gland. A chronic attack of the thyroid cells by the immune system leaves a large number of cells in the thyroid damaged or even dead and incapable of producing sufficient active hormone.

Primary hypothyroidism is when there is an insufficient amount of thyroxine by the thyroid gland.  Most cases of hypothyroidism are primar. Secondary hypothyroidism is the result of a pituitary disorder.

Other causes of hypothyroidism are: iodine deficiency, thyroid surgery, radiation therapy, and medications like lithium.

This disorder presents itself in a variety of different ways in people ranging from little to no symptoms to severe cases that lead to comas and organ failure. Symptoms develop slowly over many years. If hypothyroidism isn’t untreated, symptoms can worsen. Physical changes that can occur include having a puffy face, thinning eyebrows, hoarseness, thickened skin, and trouble with tasting and smelling and slow reflexes.

Common symptoms include: fatigue, memory problems, hair loss, infertility, depression, constipation, high cholesterol, weight gain, dry hair, infertility, changes in the menstrual cycle, dry hair, weakness, and dry skin.

Doctors test the blood for the thyroid function and the stimulation hormone for thyroid to see if a person has hypothyroidism. Metabolism, which is the main function of the thyroid hormone, can be measured by quantifying the amount of expired carbon dioxide a person produces over time.  Dr. Kordonowy uses a machine called the Metabolic ReeVue to measure this. The treatment required is taking oral thyroid hormone replacement. The usual treatment includes daily use of the synthetic thyroid hormone levothyroxine.

For most people, treatment successfully relieves this disorder’s systems.  Oral medication restores hormone levels to reverse symptoms of hypothyroidism. Blood testing is required to determine the correct dose for each individual patient.  Patients start to notice differences after one to two weeks . Treatment is usually lifelong.

If you are experiencing symptoms of this disorder, contact Dr. Kordonowy of Internal Medicine, Lipid & Wellness of Fort Myers. His office offers dietary consults and can test for hypothyroidism. To book an appointment, call 239-362-3005, Ext. 200 or click here.

08.31.16
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The Benefits of Using Sunscreen

Florida is the Sunshine State, but with that comes a lot exposure to the sun. Floridians, snowbirds, and tourists love the state for its sunshine and warm weather. However, too much sun exposure can be dangerous. Overexposure to the sun creates oxidative radicals in a person’s skin tissue. The result? Premature wrinkles and aging of the skin, painful sunburns, and skin cancer. Below, I will discuss the importance of safety in the sun, which includes using sunscreen.

Living in a sunny climate places a person at a higher risk of developing melanoma. Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer. In 2015, it was estimated 73,000 Americans were to be diagnosed with melanoma.  Long sun exposure and a few sunburns in your lifetime increases your risk of developing melanoma.

The sunlight contains ultraviolet rays,  UVA, UVB, and UVC. UVA rays are emitted all day and are the ones that contribute to skin cancer; UVB rays are the most intense from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. – these rays are the ones that are known to cause sunburns; and UVC rays do not reach the Earth’s surface.

Regardless of your complexion, it is recommended to wear sunscreen if prolonged exposure to the sun is anticipated. Cancer doesn’t discriminate based on skin shade, so protecting yourself from the sun’s rays is critical.

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends everyone uses sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Topical sunscreens offer a physical barrier/blocker of the sun’s UV radiation. The strength of protection of SPF 30 or higher is endorsed. Using the Biophotonic™ Scan offered in Dr. Kordonowy’s office, the amount of protective antioxidants derived from your vegetables and fruit in your skin can be measured.

It’s good to use sunscreen on a cloudy day, up to 8 percent of the sun’s rays can still penetrate your skin. Sunscreen should be applied to skin 15-30 minutes before heading outdoors, so the skin can absorb it. One ounce of sunscreen is the suggested amount to use over the body. Sunscreen should be applied  every two hours.

People have written about sunscreen not being safe for a person’s skin because of certain chemicals, but is it believed the benefits that sunscreen provides (preventing sunburn and skin cancer) beats out the not-yet proven claims of toxicity on the body. No one has died yet from sunscreen chemicals, but many people die each year from melanoma.

One in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their life. With high odds, it’s in your best interest to protect yourself from developing this type of cancer. If you have any concerns  or looking for a doctor in the area, contact Dr. Kordonowy of Internal Medicine, Lipid & Wellness in Fort Myers by clicking here or calling 239-362-3005, Ext. 200.

08.31.16
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Spider Veins: Anyone Can Get Them

Anyone can get spider veins, but why can anyone get them? There are many reasons why a person of any age or gender, can get spider veins.

So, what are spider veins?

Spider veins, also known as telangiectasias or sunburst varicosities, are small, thin veins that lie close to the surface of the skin. These veins are connected to the  larger venous system, but are not an essential part of it. Spider veins are small, do not bulge, and are less likely to cause pain or turn into a vein disorder.

There are a few ways a person can form spider veins. Spider veins emerge from increase pressure on the veins. Common reasons spider veins develop are due to heredity, pregnancy, hormonal shifts, weight gain, prolonged sitting or standing, and certain medications. All of these things listed cause pressure on the veins.  With age, it becomes even easier for these veins to emerge, because the venous walls are weaker.

For those who have a genetic history of these veins in their family, there is a good chance they will develop the unsightly, fine veins despite any and all preventative efforts.

Since they won’t harm you, you can live normally with these veins; however, many people hate the sight of them and seek out treatment. Sclerotherapy sessions help the veins appear lighter; two or more sessions are usually needed. For those who have spider veins, they will most likely come back, and be a life-long battle. The body continues to produce them. Vein treatments for spider veins only treat currently visible spider veins, they do not prevent future occurrences.

Overall, don’t fret! For the most part, these type of veins aren’t a health risk for a young person, just blueish, purple branch-like patterns on the body. If you’re tired of seeing them on your body, Dr. Zuzga of West Florida Vein Center can treat them for you. To schedule an appointment with the vein doctor, call 727-712-3233 or click here.

08.18.16
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5 Herbs for Healthy Circulation

circulation

Diabetes, damaged veins, and heart conditions can all benefit from a healthy diet infused with herbs that help with circulation. Peripheral arterial disease tends to be caused by lifestyle choices such as obesity, smoking, and lack of exercise. If you or someone you know has this condition or any venous insufficiency, herbs can be a wonderful way to increase blood flow throughout the body. Some people have circulation problems such as Reynaud’s disease that can benefit from home remedy

Healthy circulation uses home remedies such as herbs and vitamins to support its system. Of course, if you decide to take herbs to help with your condition, please consult with your doctor. Medicine interactions can occur and it is best to be safe before taking herbs by getting your doctor’s okay.

Important herbs for circulation:

  • Parsley: this common herb can be found in many dishes. It helps to open up the arteries and veins for better circulation
  • Cayenne Pepper: the heat of this herb is its dominant trait. Its ability to help blood flow is why it is a common herb found in circulatory supplements.
  • Ginger Root: in addition to this herb calming the stomach and digestive track, it also helps to open up blood vessels.
  • Horse Chestnut: it is important that you are aware that it is deadly to eat this herb raw. It is poisonous. It is safe to take in a processed form when an ingredient in supplements, though.
  • Prickly Ash: a stimulant, it is recommended for rheumatism, impurities of the blood, those with Raynaud’s disease. Great for digestion and circulation issues.

The herbs above all help increase circulation, however, if you have vein problems you need to consult with a vein doctor. Dr. Joseph Magnant of Vein Specialists is an expert in venous insufficiency and circulation problems. To schedule a consultation, please call 239-694-VEIN or online at WeKnowVeins.com.