Obstetrics - Gynecology

Phone: 863-680-7243

Monday - Friday: 8 am - 5 pm
Tuesday: 8 am - 8 pm


Women's Care That Delivers
 
Watson Clinic has built a reputation on delivering the most comprehensive, convenient and advanced care in the area. Each of our 40 specialties epitomizes the highest level of clinical expertise and state-of-the-art technology. The array of services and specialized care offered through our Obstetrics & Gynecology department is no exception. Our services include annual exams, infertility treatments and the latest 4D and advanced ultrasound imaging, as well as minimally invasive robotic surgery, a comprehensive bladder health/urinary incontinence program, bone density testing and digital mammography.
 
For Obstetrics and Gynecology - Choosing a physician to oversee the prenatal care and birth of your child is a crucial decision. Take the first steps to a healthy baby by choosing the most experienced, skilled and compassionate obstetricians who will stand by your side during every phase of your pregnancy.
 
Our obstetrics team works together, assuming different rotations of hospital delivery coverage while at Lakeland Regional Health Medical Center. You have the option of meeting with each of the obstetricians during the course of your prenatal care. All physicians have access to your medical records – allowing for individualized care when you arrive at the hospital for delivery.
 
When deciding on a provider for your gynecologic care, look to Watson Clinic’s team for years of experience and superior surgical capabilities. We perform a full range of treatments from annual evaluations and pap smears to hysterectomies and complex surgical procedures.
 
The team you trust for exceptional services:
  • Continuity of care between all obstetricians.     
  • One of the largest and most experienced OB-GYN departments in the area.
  • The widest palette of female-driven services -- including a special program for urinary incontinence and bladder health.
  • Affiliation with University of South Florida’s In vitro fertilization specialists for on-site consultation and assistance with pregnancy planning.
  • The convenience of two Lakeland offices to serve you – one north and one south. Patients are active participants in their own care. Watson Clinic’s comprehensive multi-disciplinary approach to healthcare – from conception to infancy and adolescence through adult and senior years.
 
Ultrasound Imagery - The future of ultrasound imagery is available to our expectant mothers-to-be. Generally performed at between 28-32 weeks gestation, the 4-D ultrasound imagery will be digitally captured in all of its stunning clarity and detail. Performed in a warm and familial setting, our ultrasounds are designed to offer a profound bonding time between family and baby. The patient is given a CD-ROM record of the ultrasound consisting of both live and still footage, from which they can relive these precious moments for a lifetime. View our Imaging Technology Brochure.

Bladder Health Issues
- Many women may experience urinary or fecal incontinence issues as a result of the childbirth process. This common occurrence is one that is treatable and often completely curable. Watson Clinic’s OB-GYN department takes the shame out of these dysfunctions and offers a comprehensive slate of services designed to restore a patient’s sense of relief and well-being. Our expert team offers versatile options in their treatment of such disorders, ranging from medications and biofeedback to diet therapy, nerve stimulation and surgical options.
 
Infertility Counseling - The advancement in medical technology has allowed more women than ever to experience the wonders of childbirth. Certain health disorders and infertility issues no longer need to hinder women from participating in the miracle of new life creation.

State-of-the-art In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) consultations are available during office hours in our Bella Vista Building. Following consultations performed at our facility, qualified patients may travel to the Center for Reproductive Medicine (CRM) campus for IVF procedures, during which the sperm and the egg are joined safely, discreetly and effectively in a lab setting.
 
Mammography - The OB-GYN department offers mammography referrals to the Watson Clinic Highlands facility located at 2300 East County Road 540A and the Watson Clinic Women’s Center, located just south of the Main Clinic at 1400 Lakeland Hills Boulevard. Designed with a welcoming feminine appeal, the Women’s Center offers the latest in digital mammography capabilities and houses a team of expert mammographers and women’s care specialists. All results are available through Watson Clinic’s electronic medical record system, allowing enhanced continuity of care between all Watson Clinic practitioners and the experts at the Watson Clinic Cancer & Research Center should any form of breast cancer be detected.
 
Female Cancers - A Gynecologic Oncologist diagnoses and treats all cancers of the female reproductive system. Dr. Richard Cardosi utilizes robotic surgical technology for treatments of specific gynecologic disorders, resulting in smaller incisions and a faster recovery period. In addition, the Main Clinic location allows every resource to be within the patient’s reach including an on- site laboratory, radiology department, EKG services, pharmacy and much more.

We also offer diVa® Laser Vaginal Therapy, which is an FDA approved specialized laser for the improvement of vaginal health and functionality. The vagina, much like any other part of the body, is susceptible to changes as women age. Milestones such as childbirth and menopause can also contribute to a decline in vaginal health. diVa® is a laser therapy solution that corrects these intimate challenges and can improve laxity, lubrication, and leakage while enhancing confidence and self-esteem.

Sciton recently recognized Watson Clinic's OB-GYN department as a "2018 diVa® Diamond Center for Excellence."

Forever Bare BBL from Sciton® is an innovative advancement in hair removal devices providing the patient with a treatment that is thorough, fast, safe and comfortable.
 
Board-certified obstetric physicians…all invested and unified in caring for you!
 
Forms:
 

Obstetrics - Gynecology Physicians & Providers:

 
Dr. Taylor Cook
  • Medical School: William Carey University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Hattiesburg, MS, DO
  • Residency: Louisiana State University Health Science Center, Baton Rouge, LA, Obstetrics and Gynecology
  • Board-eligible: Obstetrics and Gynecology
  • Member: American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Dr. Samantha Curtis
  • Medical School: Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, GA, MD
  • Internship & Residency: Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies, Orlando, FL, Obstetrics and Gynecology
  • Board-certified: Obstetrics and Gynecology
  • Member: American Congress of Obstetrics and Gynecologists, American Medical Association

Dr. Tarek Garas
  • Medical School: Creighton University School of Medicine, Omaha, NE, MD 
  • Residency: University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital, Miami, FL, Obstetrics and Gynecology
  • Board-certified: Obstetrics & Gynecolgy; Subspecialty in Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery
  • Focused Practice Designation in Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery
  • Fellow: American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, American College of Surgeons
  • Member: Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society, Southern Medical Association, William A. Little Society, Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons, Physicians for Women’s Health, Christian Medical and Dental Association, Florida Obstetric and Gynecologic Society, American Urogynecologic Society, American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists
  • Areas of Special Interest: Pelvic Pain, Pelvic Organ Prolapse, Sexual Dysfunction, Menopausal Symptoms, Contraception, Advanced Pelvic Reconstructive Surgery, Urinary and Fecal Incontinence, Infertility
  • Awards: Recognized by the Surgical Review Corporation (SRC) as a Surgeon of Excellence in performing robotic surgical proceduresInterStim™ Center of Excellence by Medtronic, Finalist in The Ledger's Best of Central Florida 2022

Dr. J. Brian Hopper
  • Medical School: University of Tennessee College of Medicine, Memphis, TN, MD 
  • Internship: University of Miami / Jackson Memorial Hospital, Miami, FL, Obstetrics and Gynecology
  • Residency: Louisiana State University, New Orleans, LA, Obstetrics and Gynecology
  • Board-certified: Obstetrics and Gynecology 
  • Fellow: American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists  
  • Member: American Medical Association, Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists, Florida Medical Association, Southern Medical Association, Florida OB-GYN Society, Polk County Medical Association

Dr. Donald W. Langley
  • Medical School: University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine, Kansas City, MO, DO
  • Internship: Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Tulsa, OK
  • Residency: University of Florida College of Medicine, Pensacola, FL, Obstetrics and Gynecology
  • Board-certified: Obstetrics and Gynecology
  • Fellow: American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
  • Member: American Medical Association, American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists, Florida Obstetric and Gynecologic Society, Polk County Medical Association
  • Areas of Special Interest: Permanent birth control solutions

Alicia Belisle
  • Nursing School: Polk State College, Winter Haven, FL, ASN
  • Masters Program: Frontier Nusing University, Hyden, KY, MSN
  • Member: Advanced Cardiac/Basic Life Support, National Certification Center (NCC) for External Fetal Monitoring, Neonatal Resuscitation Program
  • Supervising Physician: Tarek Garas, MD

Brooke Bambridge
  • Nursing School: Polk State College, Winter Haven, FL, ASN
  • Masters Program: Frontier Nursing University, Hyden, KY, MSN
  • Member: American Association of Nurse Practitioners, Sigma Theta Tau, Polk County Advanced Practice Nurses Association, Florida Board of Nursing

Sara Matthews, PA
  • Undergraduate Degree: University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, BS, Biology
  • Masters Program: Lincoln Memorial University, Harrogate, TN, MMS, Physician Assistant Studies
  • Member: American Academy of Physician Assistants, Association of Physician Associates in Obstetrics and Gynecology
  • Supervising Physician: Tarek Garas, MD

Holly Payne
  • Nursing School: University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, BSN
  • Masters Program: University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, MSN
  • Masters Program: Frontier Nursing University, Hyden, KY, MSN, Women's Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Member: American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists, Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health, Electronic Fetal Monitoring Certified

Obstetric Hospitalist Physician:

Dr. Shawn T. Simpson
  • Medical School: Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, DO
  • Internship & Residency: St. Luke’s Hospital, Bethlehem, PA, Obstetrics and Gynecology
  • Board-certified: Obstetrics and Gynecology
  • Member: American Osteopathic Association, American College of Osteopathic Obstetricians and Gynecologists



Please call 863-680-7243 for additional information.