Dr. Anthony Ditomaso, MD is a Gastroenterology specialist dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults (65 and over) at his clinic in Englewood, FL. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). A gastroenterologist provides specialized expertise in managing complex digestive conditions common in seniors, such as colon cancer, GERD, swallowing disorders, and liver issues, working collaboratively with your primary care physician and other healthcare providers to ensure the best possible care. Dr. Ditomaso, Board Certified through the American Board of Internal Medicine as a Diplomate in Gastroenterology, brings over 30 years of dedicated experience, a wealth of clinical knowledge, and a commitment to collaborative, evidence-based medicine to his practice. He earned his medical degree from the University of Miami and completed his residency and fellowship training in Gastroenterology at the University of South Florida. He is the owner and President of Gulf Comprehensive Gastroenterology, LLC and also the Owner/Medical Director of Gulf Comprehensive Surgery Center, demonstrating a strong commitment to his patients and their families. He is currently welcoming new patients and can be reached at (941) 392-4542 to schedule an appointment. Dr. Ditomaso offers consultations in Spanish.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Anthony Ditomaso is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Anthony Ditomaso is a dedicated partner in your senior's health journey, providing compassionate and comprehensive gastroenterological care. He expertly manages complex digestive conditions, collaborating closely with primary care physicians and other specialists to create a personalized treatment plan. This collaborative approach ensures the best possible outcomes, focusing on maintaining comfort, independence, and overall well-being for your loved one.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Anthony Ditomaso can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Cigna
Curative
Priority Health
WellCare
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield
- Buckeye Community Health Plan
- Choice Plus
- Curative EPO
- Curative PPO
- Curative PPO Plus
- Health Net
- Medicare
- Molina
- Molina Healthcare
- South Carolina Medicaid
- Tricare
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Anthony Ditomaso provides expert, compassionate care for a range of conditions common in older adults, with a focus on managing symptoms and maintaining function. Common areas of focus include:
- Hepatitis C: For seniors, managing Hepatitis C is vital for preserving their health and independence. Treatment focuses on antiviral medications that can clear the virus, preventing serious liver complications and improving quality of life.
- Intestinal Diverticulosis: Diverticulosis involves tiny pockets forming in your large intestine; while often symptom-free, it can occasionally lead to complications, but these are often treatable to ensure you maintain a comfortable life.
- Pancreatitis: If you're diagnosed with pancreatitis, know that there's support available. Treatment focuses on managing pain, preventing further damage to your pancreas, and regaining your ability to eat and enjoy your meals comfortably.
- Gas-Bloat Syndrome: If you're struggling with persistent gas and bloating, known as gas-bloat syndrome, it's important to talk to your doctor. They can help identify causes and recommend strategies to relieve your symptoms, promoting better digestion and greater comfort.
- Intestinal Obstruction: Intestinal obstruction is a serious condition that can prevent your body from processing food properly; treatment options, such as surgery or medications, aim to relieve the blockage and get your digestive system working comfortably again.
- Gastroparesis: Gastroparesis slows down the digestion process, making you feel full and nauseous, but working with your doctor to find the right plan can help you better manage your symptoms and maintain your independence.
- Indigestion: Managing indigestion can help maintain your independence and energy levels by ensuring you're comfortable and able to eat nutritious meals.
- Esophageal Ulcer: An esophageal ulcer is a painful condition affecting the esophagus, but with appropriate management, often including medications, seniors can regain comfort and enjoy meals without discomfort.
- Pyloric Stenosis: If your loved one experiences persistent vomiting and stomach pain, pyloric stenosis might be a possibility; prompt medical evaluation and treatment can greatly improve their comfort and eating habits.
- Chronic Cholecystitis: If you have chronic cholecystitis, it means your gallbladder is persistently inflamed, leading to symptoms like upper abdominal pain. Fortunately, there are ways to manage this condition and reduce those painful episodes, allowing you to remain more active and comfortable.
- Primary Biliary Cholangitis: If you have PBC, it means the small tubes carrying bile from your liver are inflamed and may be scarred; regular check-ups and medication prescribed by your doctor can prevent further liver damage and improve your quality of life.
- Hepatitis B: Hepatitis B is a liver infection caused by a virus, and although it can be concerning, treatment focuses on preventing long-term damage to your liver, often letting seniors live full and healthy lives.
This list highlights some common health concerns and is for informational purposes. An accurate diagnosis and a personalized care plan can only be developed through a direct consultation with a qualified medical professional based on your specific health history.
To provide comprehensive and person-centered care, Dr. Anthony Ditomaso offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Manometry: Manometry is a test that measures the pressure within your esophagus, stomach, and intestines to help doctors diagnose problems with swallowing or digestion.
- Rigid Proctosigmoidoscopy: Rigid proctosigmoidoscopy is a less invasive screening tool than colonoscopy, yet it's still effective in detecting precancerous polyps and other abnormalities in the lower part of your large intestine.
- Proctosigmoidoscopy: Proctosigmoidoscopy is a brief procedure where a doctor inserts a thin, flexible tube with a camera to examine the rectum and sigmoid colon, helping detect early signs of colon cancer or other issues.
- Hemorrhoidectomy or Excision of Anal Tags: Hemorrhoidectomy and excision of anal tags are surgical options in a senior's care plan to address persistent hemorrhoidal issues, improving bowel movements and overall comfort.
- Duodenal Polypectomy: As part of your comprehensive care plan, duodenal polypectomy removes polyps from the duodenum, a part of your small intestine, minimizing your risk of future digestive issues.
- Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: A flexible sigmoidoscopy is a simple procedure using a thin, flexible tube with a camera to examine the lower part of your large intestine, helping detect polyps or early signs of colon cancer.
- Liver Biopsy: This procedure aids in monitoring the effectiveness of your liver treatment and allows your doctor to track any changes in liver health over time.
- Endoscopic Ultrasound: This advanced imaging technique helps your doctor assess the extent of digestive diseases, guiding them in developing a precise treatment plan tailored to your needs.
- Capsule Endoscopy: As a less invasive alternative to traditional endoscopy, capsule endoscopy helps seniors with swallowing difficulties get a thorough small bowel examination, improving their care plan.
- Colonoscopy: As part of your comprehensive care plan, a colonoscopy provides detailed images of your colon, enabling early detection of issues like polyps, inflammation, or cancer.
- Endoscopy: Endoscopy helps doctors assess swallowing difficulties and identify potential causes, improving your quality of life and making mealtimes easier.
- Biopsy: To create a personalized care plan, your doctor might use a biopsy to confirm a diagnosis, like colon cancer or liver disease, ensuring you receive the most appropriate care.
Service availability can change. To understand which services are appropriate for your specific health needs, please schedule a consultation to develop a personalized care plan.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Gastroenterology in Florida.
Dr. Anthony Ditomaso is dedicated to partnering with older adults and their families to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how compassionate care can make a tangible difference in a patient's life:
- With antiviral medication, a senior felt a noticeable reduction in fatigue and was able to resume their beloved volunteer work at the local animal shelter, bringing joy to both themselves and the animals.
- After careful guidance from a gastroenterologist, a senior woman experienced a significant reduction in the discomfort associated with intestinal diverticulosis, enabling her to enjoy her favorite hobby of gardening again without pain.
- With expert guidance, a senior with pancreatitis experienced a significant reduction in pain and discomfort, allowing them to resume their favorite pastime of baking cookies with their grandchildren.
These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results vary and depend on many factors specific to each person. He will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.
- Primary Location:
Practice
3801 E Highway 98 Ste 100100, Port St. Joe, FL, 32456
Phone: (850) 229-5752
View on Map
- HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital Port St. Lucie (Residency Hospital)
- American Board of Internal Medicine (Gastroenterology)
Here are answers to some common questions about Gastroenterological care with Dr. Anthony Ditomaso:
- What is a Gastroenterologist?
- A gastroenterologist, or GI doctor, is a specialist who has extensive training in the health of the entire digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, intestines, colon, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. They diagnose, treat, and prevent a wide range of digestive diseases, helping seniors maintain comfort and health.
- Why is a colonoscopy so important for older adults?
- A colonoscopy is crucial for older adults because it's the most effective way to prevent colorectal cancer, which is common in seniors. Dr. Ditomaso can find and remove small growths called polyps before they develop into cancer, making it a vital proactive step for long-term health and peace of mind.
- What can I expect during my first consultation with Dr. Anthony Ditomaso?
- Your first visit with Dr. Ditomaso will be a comprehensive conversation about your digestive health. We'll review your symptoms, diet, medications, and health history. This thorough evaluation is the first step toward creating a personalized plan to address your concerns, whether it's for heartburn, a change in bowel habits, or a screening.
- I have constant heartburn. Is it just 'acid reflux' or something more?
- We understand your concern about persistent heartburn. While often related to GERD, it's important to have Dr. Ditomaso evaluate the cause. He can determine the underlying issue and recommend appropriate treatments, from lifestyle changes to medication, to manage your symptoms and prevent potential complications.
- What does it mean if I have 'fatty liver disease'?
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is when extra fat builds up in your liver. Fortunately, in early stages, it can often be managed or even reversed with lifestyle changes like diet and exercise. Dr. Ditomaso can help you monitor and manage this important health indicator.
- What is the difference between celiac disease and gluten sensitivity?
- Celiac disease is an autoimmune response to gluten, damaging the small intestine. Gluten sensitivity causes similar symptoms but without the autoimmune attack or intestinal damage. A gastroenterologist can properly diagnose the condition and create a tailored management plan.
- I have trouble swallowing sometimes. Is that a GI problem?
- Yes, difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) is a very important gastrointestinal symptom. Dr. Ditomaso can perform evaluations, such as an upper endoscopy (EGD), to investigate the cause, which could range from reflux to other conditions of the esophagus. The goal is to ensure you can eat safely and comfortably.
- Is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) a serious disease?
- While Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) can cause significant discomfort with symptoms like gas, bloating, and cramping, it is not a serious disease that damages the intestine or increases the risk of cancer. Dr. Ditomaso can help identify triggers and develop a management plan to significantly reduce symptoms through diet, lifestyle changes, and potentially medication.
900 Pine St Ste 211
Englewood FL 34223
Phone: (941) 392-4542
Dr. Anthony Ditomaso, MD is regulated by the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice) in Florida and is licensed by The Florida Board of Medicine.
National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1407840408
Registration can typically be verified through The Florida Board of Medicine website or by direct inquiry.
The information on this profile, provided by infoaging.org, is for general informational purposes and to help you connect with healthcare partners for yourself or a loved one. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the physician named. Gastroenterology like Dr. Anthony Ditomaso are skilled in helping seniors and their families navigate their health journey. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. Always consult with a qualified medical professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your care plan.