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Genetic Testing for Hereditary Cancer Risk

About 5 to 10 percent of cancers are linked to inherited gene changes. Knowing whether you carry one can change when and how you are screened, and it can help your relatives too.

Who Should Consider Testing

  • A close relative diagnosed with breast, ovarian, colon, uterine, pancreatic or prostate cancer, especially at a young age
  • Several relatives on the same side of the family with related cancers
  • A known gene change in the family, such as BRCA1, BRCA2 or Lynch syndrome
  • Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry, which carries a higher rate of certain BRCA changes
  • A personal history of certain cancers

How the Process Works

It starts with a careful family history. If testing makes sense, it is usually a simple blood or saliva sample. We review results with you and refer you to a genetic counselor when it helps you understand the findings and your options.

What Results Can Mean for You

A positive result does not mean you will get cancer. It may mean earlier or more frequent screening, additional imaging or other preventive steps. Federal law (GINA) protects against genetic discrimination in health insurance and employment, though not in life or long-term care insurance. Women can also learn about our cancer screening and genetic risk assessment program.

Become a Member

Wondering whether your family history puts you at risk? Concierge Internal Medicine Associates keeps a limited number of memberships so every member has time with their physician and direct access when something comes up. Call (561) 295-5024 to schedule a meet-and-greet, or learn more about concierge membership.

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Multi-Cancer Early Detection (MCED) Blood Tests: What to Know

Geriatric Care

Multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests are blood tests that look for tiny pieces of DNA shed by cancer cells. Some can screen for signals of dozens of cancer types at once, including cancers that have no routine screening test today.

What MCED Tests Can Do

  • Look for signs of cancers like pancreatic or ovarian cancer that are otherwise hard to catch early
  • Suggest where in the body a cancer signal may be coming from
  • Add another layer of information for people at higher risk

What They Cannot Do

  • They do not replace recommended screenings like mammograms, colonoscopy, Pap tests or lung cancer screening
  • A negative result does not rule out cancer, and they can miss early cancers
  • A positive result needs follow-up imaging or other tests to confirm, and false alarms happen
  • Insurance and Medicare coverage is limited, so the test is often an out-of-pocket cost

Deciding Together

MCED testing is a personal decision. We talk through your age, family history, prior screening and how you would feel about follow-up testing, then decide together whether it adds value for you. If a test is positive, we coordinate the next steps quickly.

Become a Member

Curious whether MCED testing is right for you? Concierge Internal Medicine Associates keeps a limited number of memberships so every member has time with their physician and direct access when something comes up. Call (561) 295-5024 to schedule a meet-and-greet, or learn more about concierge membership.

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Metabolic Syndrome Risk Assessment: Catching Problems Early

Metabolic syndrome is not a single disease. It is a cluster of common warning signs that, together, raise your risk of heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes. Most people who have it feel fine, which is exactly why it is worth checking.

The Five Warning Signs

Metabolic syndrome is usually diagnosed when someone has three or more of these:

  • A larger waist: more than 40 inches for men or 35 inches for women
  • Triglycerides of 150 mg/dL or higher
  • Low HDL (“good”) cholesterol: under 40 mg/dL for men or 50 mg/dL for women
  • Blood pressure of 130/85 or higher
  • Fasting blood sugar of 100 mg/dL or higher

How We Assess Your Risk

We look at your measurements, blood work, family history, sleep, activity and medications together, rather than one number at a time. Then we build a realistic plan, which may include nutrition changes, activity goals, weight management and medication when it is truly needed.

The Good News

Metabolic syndrome responds well to early action. Even modest weight loss and regular activity can improve blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol. See also our prediabetes guide.

Become a Member

Want to know where you stand? Concierge Internal Medicine Associates keeps a limited number of memberships so every member has time with their physician and direct access when something comes up. Call (561) 295-5024 to schedule a meet-and-greet, or learn more about concierge membership.

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Kidney Disease Screening: Two Simple Tests That Matter

Your kidneys filter your blood all day, every day, and they rarely complain when something goes wrong. Chronic kidney disease affects about 1 in 7 American adults, and most of them do not know it.

Who Should Be Screened

  • People with diabetes or high blood pressure, the two most common causes
  • Anyone with heart disease or a family history of kidney disease
  • Adults over 60
  • People who regularly take medications that can affect the kidneys, such as some pain relievers

Two Simple Tests

  • A blood test (eGFR) that estimates how well your kidneys are filtering
  • A urine test (albumin-to-creatinine ratio) that checks for protein leaking into the urine, often the earliest sign of damage

Why Early Detection Helps

When kidney disease is found early, steps like good blood pressure and blood sugar control, adjusting medications and choosing kidney-safe pain relief can slow it down. We also coordinate with nephrology when specialist care is needed. Learn about our chronic disease management.

Become a Member

Living with diabetes or high blood pressure? Concierge Internal Medicine Associates keeps a limited number of memberships so every member has time with their physician and direct access when something comes up. Call (561) 295-5024 to schedule a meet-and-greet, or learn more about concierge membership.

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Memory Changes and Cognitive Assessment for Medicare Patients

Misplacing your keys now and then is normal. But when you or your family notice that memory, focus or decision-making is changing, it is worth a careful conversation with a physician you trust.

Not Every Memory Change Is Dementia

Thyroid problems, low vitamin B12, poor sleep, depression, hearing loss and medication side effects can all affect memory and thinking. Many of these are treatable, which is why an early, thorough evaluation matters.

How We Evaluate Cognitive Changes

  • A conversation with you and, if you like, a family member about what has changed
  • Brief, standardized memory and thinking tests
  • A review of every medication, since some commonly cause confusion in older adults
  • Lab work to look for treatable causes
  • Referral to neurology or neuropsychology when more testing is needed

What Medicare Covers

Medicare’s Annual Wellness Visit includes a check for signs of cognitive impairment. If there are concerns, Medicare also covers a separate cognitive assessment and care planning visit to review safety, medications, caregiver support and next steps.

Support for the Whole Family

If a diagnosis is made, we help coordinate specialists, home safety and community resources, and we stay in touch as needs change. Read more about our geriatric care.

Become a Member

Worried about memory changes in yourself or a loved one? Concierge Internal Medicine Associates keeps a limited number of memberships so every member has time with their physician and direct access when something comes up. Call (561) 295-5024 to schedule a meet-and-greet, or learn more about concierge membership.

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Annual Physical Exams and Wellness Visits in Jupiter, FL

Geriatric Care

Most of us know we should get a yearly check-up. Fewer of us leave one feeling like the doctor really had time to listen. At Concierge Internal Medicine Associates, your annual visit is a real conversation with your physician, not a race against the clock.

What Happens at Your Annual Visit

  • A review of your health history, family history and any changes since last year
  • A head-to-toe exam, blood pressure and weight check
  • Lab work chosen for you, such as cholesterol, blood sugar, kidney and thyroid tests when appropriate
  • A look at your medications and supplements
  • A plan for the screenings and vaccines you are due for

A Note for Medicare Patients

Medicare Part B covers a yearly Annual Wellness Visit, which focuses on prevention planning, and a one-time “Welcome to Medicare” visit in your first year. These are not the same as a full physical exam. We will help you understand what is covered and make the most of each visit.

Why It Matters

Many conditions, like high blood pressure, prediabetes and early kidney disease, cause no symptoms at first. A thorough yearly visit is one of the simplest ways to find them early, when small changes make a big difference. Learn more about our approach to preventive health.

Become a Member

Ready for a check-up that does not feel rushed? Concierge Internal Medicine Associates keeps a limited number of memberships so every member has time with their physician and direct access when something comes up. Call (561) 295-5024 to schedule a meet-and-greet, or learn more about concierge membership.

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Lung Cancer Screening Assessment

Lung Cancer Screening Assessment Doctor Primary Care

Early Lung Cancer Screening After 55: Why Preventive Care Matters More Than Ever

Understanding Lung Health as You Age

As adults enter their mid-50s and beyond, preventive healthcare often becomes less about treating illness and more about identifying risks before they become serious medical problems. Many adults in Generation X and seniors are focused on maintaining energy, protecting independence, traveling, enjoying retirement, and staying active with family and grandchildren. One important but frequently overlooked area of preventive health is lung cancer risk assessment. Lung cancer can develop quietly over time and often does not produce noticeable symptoms during its earliest stages. By the time symptoms such as a persistent cough, unexplained weight loss, shortness of breath, or fatigue appear, the disease may already be more advanced. Discussing lung health with your primary care physician can help identify concerns long before symptoms develop.

Who Should Consider an Early Lung Cancer Screening Assessment?

Many individuals mistakenly believe lung cancer screening only applies to current smokers. In reality, risk factors extend beyond smoking alone. Adults over age 55 may have additional risk considerations including previous smoking history, long-term exposure to secondhand smoke, occupational exposures, environmental factors, or a family history of lung disease or cancer. Even individuals who quit smoking years ago may still benefit from discussing their history with their physician. A personalized screening assessment with your primary care doctor allows for a complete review of your health profile rather than relying on assumptions or generalized recommendations.

Benefits of Early Lung Cancer Detection

One of the greatest advantages of early lung cancer screening is the possibility of identifying concerns at a stage when more treatment options may be available. Early detection can help physicians recognize abnormalities before symptoms develop and before a condition potentially becomes more complex to manage. Screening is not intended to create unnecessary worry—it is designed to provide valuable information that supports informed healthcare decisions. For many patients, peace of mind alone can be an important benefit of understanding their risk profile and taking a proactive approach to their health.

Why Your Primary Care Physician Plays an Important Role

Your primary care physician serves as the central point for preventive care and long-term health planning. Unlike isolated testing, a physician-guided lung cancer screening assessment considers your complete health picture, including medical history, medications, family history, lifestyle habits, and other chronic health conditions. This approach helps determine whether screening may be appropriate while ensuring recommendations align with your overall wellness goals. Preventive healthcare is most effective when it becomes part of a personalized strategy rather than a single test or appointment.

Concierge Internal Medicine Associates and Preventive Healthcare for Adults 55+

At Concierge Internal Medicine Associates, we believe healthcare should focus on prevention, early detection, and individualized care for adults seeking a proactive approach to aging well. Many Generation X adults and seniors are prioritizing longevity, maintaining quality of life, and protecting their future health. Early lung cancer screening assessments may become an important part of that strategy. Through comprehensive evaluations and personalized guidance, patients can gain greater insight into their individual health risks and take meaningful steps toward protecting their long-term wellness.

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The Importance of Primary Care Involvement After a Cancer Diagnosis

Primary Care Involvement After a Cancer Diagnosis

How Concierge Internal Medicine Associates Helps Patients Navigate Oncology Care in Palm Beach County

Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. In the early stages, patients often find themselves navigating a complex healthcare system that may involve oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists. While an oncologist focuses on treating the cancer itself, many patients do not realize how important it is to keep their primary care physician actively involved throughout the treatment process. Internal medicine physicians play a critical role in protecting overall health, coordinating care, and helping patients safely manage the medical challenges that can arise during cancer treatment.

Why Primary Care Matters After a Cancer Diagnosis

Cancer treatment affects much more than the tumor itself. Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies can influence nearly every system in the body. Patients may experience fatigue, immune suppression, cardiovascular strain, metabolic changes, nutritional deficiencies, or worsening of existing medical conditions.

An internal medicine physician provides comprehensive oversight of a patient’s overall health while cancer treatment is underway. While the oncologist focuses on the cancer and treatment protocols, the primary care physician ensures that the rest of the body remains stable and resilient during therapy.

Areas often monitored during treatment include:

  • Blood pressure and cardiovascular health
  • Blood sugar control for patients with diabetes or metabolic conditions
  • Kidney and liver function
  • Medication interactions between cancer therapies and other prescriptions
  • Nutrition, hydration, and weight changes
  • Infection risk and immune system function
  • Maintaining stability in these areas can improve a patient’s ability to tolerate treatment and reduce the risk of complications.

How Internal Medicine Physicians Work with Oncologists

Modern cancer care is increasingly collaborative. Internal medicine physicians often work closely with oncologists to ensure patients receive coordinated, patient-centered care that addresses both the cancer diagnosis and the individual’s broader health needs.

This collaboration may involve:

  • Reviewing oncology treatment plans and how they may impact existing medical conditions
  • Adjusting medications to avoid interactions with chemotherapy or immunotherapy
  • Monitoring laboratory values and organ function throughout treatment
  • Managing treatment-related side effects such as anemia, fatigue, or metabolic changes
  • Coordinating referrals to specialists such as cardiologists, endocrinologists, nutritionists, or rehabilitation providers
  • Ensuring preventive and chronic disease management continues during cancer treatment
  • When primary care physicians and oncologists communicate effectively, patients benefit from more comprehensive and safer medical care throughout the treatment journey.

Personalized Care Through Concierge Internal Medicine Associates

At Concierge Internal Medicine Associates, patients receive a highly personalized approach to managing their health during a cancer diagnosis. Whether you are working with Beatrice Deshommes, M.D., Daniel Boss, M.D., or Susan Poncy, M.D., your physician serves as a central medical advocate who helps coordinate care across the Palm Beach County medical community.

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Health Risk Assessment

At Concierge Internal Medicine Associates, we believe that proactive care leads to better outcomes. One of the most effective tools we use to help patients understand and manage their health is the Health Risk Assessment (HRA). This short but powerful evaluation is a cornerstone of preventive care—especially for Medicare patients—and can help uncover health risks before they become more serious problems.

What is a Health Risk Assessment?

A Health Risk Assessment is a structured questionnaire designed to evaluate your current health status, personal and family medical history, lifestyle habits, and potential health risks. This assessment is typically offered as part of your Medicare Annual Wellness Visit, and it provides a valuable snapshot that helps guide your care plan going forward.

Why It Matters

Many chronic conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart disease can develop silently. The HRA helps our team identify areas of concern early so that we can work together to keep you healthy and out of the hospital. It also helps us tailor your care to your unique needs, whether that means scheduling preventive screenings, adjusting medications, or supporting lifestyle changes.

The Benefits of Completing an HRA

  • Early Identification of Health Risks: Find out what may be impacting your health—before symptoms begin.
  • Customized Care Planning: We use your responses to create a care plan that’s designed specifically for you.
  • Improved Communication: An HRA opens the door to better conversations with your doctor and clinical team.
  • Better Long-Term Outcomes: Patients who participate in regular assessments and follow-up care tend to experience fewer hospitalizations and enjoy better overall health.
  • Serving Patients Across the Jupiter Area
  • Whether you live in Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, Tequesta, or Juno Beach, Dr. Daniel Boss is here to help you stay ahead of health concerns and enjoy peace of mind. Our office is conveniently located just north of Donald Ross Road, making it easy to access high-quality, personalized medical care close to home.

Schedule Your Health Risk Assessment Today

If you haven’t yet completed your Health Risk Assessment, or if it’s time for your Annual Wellness Visit, we invite you to follow up with our team. These visits are fully covered for Medicare patients and play a key role in maintaining long-term wellness.

Call us today and take the first step toward better health with Dr. Daniel Boss.

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Comprehensive Testing for Aging Gracefully

Concierge Primary Care Services in Jupiter

Aging gracefully while maintaining mobility and overall health is a goal shared by many individuals 65 years and older. For patients of Daniel Boss, MD in Jupiter, FL, comprehensive medical testing and lab evaluations play a pivotal role in identifying potential health risks, optimizing wellness, and promoting longevity. Concierge internal medicine offers a personalized approach, enabling tailored recommendations for preventive care and early detection. Below, we outline the best medical tests and labs for older adults aiming to stay active and vibrant.

Comprehensive Blood Panel

A routine comprehensive blood panel is essential for evaluating key health markers, including blood sugar levels, cholesterol profiles, liver and kidney function, and electrolyte balance. For older adults, monitoring hemoglobin A1c helps detect prediabetes or diabetes, which can impact energy levels and mobility. Additionally, assessing inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and homocysteine provides insights into cardiovascular health and inflammation, both of which influence overall physical function.

Bone Density Test (DEXA Scan)

Osteoporosis and reduced bone density are common concerns for individuals over 65, especially women. A dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan is a non-invasive test that measures bone mineral density, helping to identify osteoporosis early and guide interventions. Ensuring strong bones reduces the risk of fractures and supports long-term mobility. Personalized strategies, such as calcium and vitamin D supplementation or weight-bearing exercises, can then be implemented.

Vitamin and Nutrient Testing

As we age, nutritional deficiencies become more prevalent and can significantly affect energy, muscle strength, and overall health. Testing for levels of vitamin D, B12, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids provides valuable information for addressing deficiencies. Adequate vitamin D, for example, is crucial for bone health, while B12 supports cognitive function and nerve health. Customized supplementation ensures optimal nutrient balance and supports healthy aging.

Mobility and Balance Assessments

Physical assessments of mobility, strength, and balance are critical for preventing falls and maintaining independence. Tests such as the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test or a gait analysis can identify early signs of mobility limitations. These evaluations allow for personalized physical therapy or exercise recommendations to enhance flexibility, strength, and coordination.

Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health Tests

Cardiovascular health is a cornerstone of aging gracefully. Tests such as an electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, and stress tests help evaluate heart function and detect conditions like arrhythmias or coronary artery disease. Monitoring blood pressure and performing lipid panels further ensure that cardiovascular risks are managed proactively. Incorporating lifestyle modifications or medications as needed supports heart health and overall vitality.

Cognitive Screening

Cognitive health is equally important for maintaining independence and quality of life. Screening for memory, attention, and problem-solving skills using tools like the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) can help detect early signs of cognitive decline or conditions such as mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Early intervention strategies, including brain-stimulating activities, nutrition, and medications when necessary, can slow progression and improve outcomes.

Advanced Imaging for Joint Health

For patients experiencing joint pain or reduced mobility, imaging studies such as X-rays, MRIs, or ultrasounds can pinpoint the cause of discomfort. Conditions such as arthritis or degenerative joint disease are common in older adults and can hinder mobility. Early detection allows for targeted treatments, including physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, or minimally invasive procedures, to restore function and reduce pain.

By incorporating these tests into a personalized health plan, patients of Daniel Boss, MD can take proactive steps to maintain mobility, prevent age-related health challenges, and enhance their quality of life. Concierge internal medicine ensures that these evaluations are performed with the utmost attention to individual needs, fostering a partnership between physician and patient to promote graceful aging and sustained independence.