Dr. Dwaraknadh Banala, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at his clinic in Leesburg, FL. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). Your internist serves as your primary healthcare partner, coordinating complex care, managing chronic conditions, and focusing on your overall well-being and independence to help you thrive as you age. He primarily serves older adults (65 and older), but also includes younger adults with complex medical needs. Dr. Banala is currently welcoming new patients; please call (352) 315-0578 to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Dwaraknadh Banala, MD is an internist in Leesburg, FL, affiliated with UF Health Leesburg Hospital. He is accepting new patients and telehealth appointments. He completed rigorous medical training, including an internship at Brooklyn Hospital Center - Downtown Campus (1996) and a residency in Internal Medicine at the same institution (1998). He is Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Dr. Banala is proud to be part of the Optum family of primary care doctors, specialists, and care teams focused on providing care for people ages 65+. He and his team help you reach your personal health goals, focus on your total well-being, and support you in preventing health problems and managing any chronic conditions. Dr. Banala offers consultations in Urdu.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Dwaraknadh Banala is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Banala is a dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care that prioritizes your overall well-being and independence. He meticulously coordinates complex care, expertly manages chronic conditions, and focuses on understanding your individual needs and goals to create a personalized plan that maximizes your comfort and quality of life as you age.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Dwaraknadh Banala can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Blue Card High Performance Network HPN (HPN)
- Blue Card PPO (PPO)
- Blue Choice HMO (HMO)
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Georgia
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida
- Blue Preferred Patient Care PPO (PPO)
- Blue Select PPO (PPO)
- BlueOptions HMO (HMO)
- Choice Care Network PPO (PPO)
- Choice Care PPO (PPO)
- Choice POS (POS)
- Choice Plus POS (POS)
- Curative
- Curative EPO (EPO)
- Curative PPO (PPO)
- Curative PPO Plus (PPO Plus)
- First Health
- First Health (Coventry Health Care) PPO (PPO)
- Florida Blue
- HMO Premier HMO (HMO)
- Humana
- Inc. d/b/a Florida Blue
- Medica Choice
- National POS (POS)
- Navigate HMO (HMO)
- Navigate POS (POS)
- Nexus Open Access
- Options PPO (PPO)
- Preferred PPO (PPO)
- Preferred Patient Care
- Select HMO (HMO)
- SimplyBlue HMO (HMO)
- UnitedHealthCare
- myBlue EPO (EPO)
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Dwaraknadh Banala 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:
- Sleep-Related Leg Cramp: Treatment for leg cramps can include over-the-counter pain relievers, muscle relaxants, or addressing vitamin deficiencies to reduce nighttime pain and improve your quality of life.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): GERD, or acid reflux, is a common condition where stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus, causing heartburn and discomfort, but with the right approach and medication, you can effectively manage your symptoms and maintain a comfortable life.
- Viral Infection: Viral infections, like colds or the flu, are common illnesses caused by viruses that can cause symptoms like fever, cough, and fatigue, but they usually clear up on their own with rest and supportive care.
- Hernia: A hernia is a protrusion of an organ or tissue through a weakness in the abdominal wall; your doctor can explain treatment options that may involve surgery to repair the weakness and alleviate discomfort or avoid worsening.
- Acute Upper Respiratory Infection: An acute upper respiratory infection is a short-lived infection in your upper airways that can cause symptoms like a cough, sneezing, and congestion. While it can be uncomfortable, focusing on rest and hydration will usually help your body fight it off quickly, allowing you to maintain your independence.
- Eczema and Contact Dermatitis: For seniors, eczema and contact dermatitis can be especially uncomfortable, but effective treatment plans, including moisturizing and avoiding irritants, can significantly improve quality of life and reduce the need for assistance.
- Secondary Renovascular Hypertension: If narrowed kidney arteries are causing your high blood pressure (renovascular hypertension), your doctor can work with you to find ways to improve blood flow and control your blood pressure, improving your overall health and well-being.
- Aspergillosis: Aspergillosis is a fungal infection that can impact the lungs, and effective management involves antifungal medicines and strategies to reduce exposure to the mold, helping you stay active and comfortable.
- Cellulitis: Cellulitis is a common skin infection that can be treated successfully with antibiotics prescribed by your doctor, ensuring swift recovery and avoiding potential long-term health problems.
- Leukocytopenia: Leukocytopenia means your body has fewer infection-fighting white blood cells than usual; your doctor can work with you to identify the cause and develop a plan to minimize your risk of getting sick.
- Acute Laryngitis: If you're experiencing a sudden, scratchy throat and difficulty speaking, it might be acute laryngitis – a common condition that usually gets better on its own with vocal rest and plenty of fluids.
- Nasopharyngitis: A simple cold (nasopharyngitis) is a common viral infection that causes uncomfortable symptoms like runny nose and cough, but usually gets better on its own within a week or two with supportive care to maintain your daily routine.
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. Dwaraknadh Banala offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Abscess or Fluid Incision and Drainage: As part of a comprehensive approach to your health, incision and drainage can treat an infection, relieving symptoms and preventing further complications.
- Advance Directive End of Life Planning: Advance directive end-of-life planning ensures your wishes regarding medical care are respected during your final stages of life.
- Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): An arterial blood gas test helps your doctor understand how well your lungs are working and how your body is managing oxygen and carbon dioxide.
- Care Coordination for Complex Conditions and Procedures: For seniors with intricate medical needs, care coordination acts as a central hub, simplifying communication and ensuring everyone involved is on the same page.
- Chronic Care Management: For seniors with complex health needs, Chronic Care Management provides a comprehensive approach to coordinating care, ensuring all aspects of their health are addressed.
- Electrocardiogram (EKG): An EKG is a vital tool in monitoring the effectiveness of your heart medication and adjusting your treatment plan as needed, optimizing your heart health and overall quality of life.
- Fecal Occult Blood Test for Colorectal Cancer: By detecting microscopic blood in your stool, the fecal occult blood test plays a critical role in early diagnosis and management of colorectal cancer, a common concern for seniors.
- Immunization Administration: Through timely immunizations, we can help prevent hospitalizations and complications related to infectious diseases, keeping seniors healthier and more active.
- Obesity Counseling: As part of a comprehensive care plan, obesity counseling provides seniors with guidance and support to make sustainable changes that lead to a healthier weight and better quality of life.
- Smoking Cessation Counseling: For seniors, smoking cessation counseling provides expert guidance and support to successfully quit smoking, leading to better cardiovascular and respiratory health.
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 Internal Medicine in Florida.
Dr. Dwaraknadh Banala 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:
- After receiving guidance on managing sleep-related leg cramps, a senior couple reported a significant reduction in nighttime discomfort, allowing them to enjoy restful sleep and a more active daily routine.
- With a tailored treatment plan for GERD, a senior couple found relief from the frequent heartburn that had been disrupting their evenings, allowing them to enjoy their favorite nightly dinners together without discomfort.
- Feeling run down with a viral infection, a senior was able to return to their beloved book club meetings, thanks to the guidance of a caring medical professional. The supportive care helped alleviate symptoms quickly, allowing them to resume their social activities and enjoy their community.
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 (Internal Medicine)
Here are answers to some common questions about Internal Medicine care with Dr. Dwaraknadh Banala:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Internists, like Dr. Banala, are primary care doctors who specialize in adult health. They are experts in the many health concerns that can arise with aging, including managing chronic conditions and coordinating care with other specialists.
- Does Dr. Dwaraknadh Banala have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Yes, Dr. Banala is an internist, specializing in adult medicine, and has extensive experience treating the unique health needs of older adults. He is knowledgeable about the conditions frequently seen in later life, and is well-equipped to provide comprehensive care.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Banala and our practice believe in a team approach to care, and we welcome the involvement of family members and caregivers, with the patient's permission. Their participation is invaluable for ensuring clear communication and providing the best possible support.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Dwaraknadh Banala?
- Please bring a list of all your current medications (including doses and over-the-counter supplements), a summary of your medical history, your insurance information, and any specific questions or concerns you have written down.
- How do I request a prescription refill?
- To request a prescription refill, please use our patient portal or contact your pharmacy directly. Please allow 2-3 business days for processing.
- Does the practice accept Medicare?
- Our practice accepts Medicare. To ensure we are in-network with your particular plan, please call the number on your insurance card or contact our billing office for assistance.
- How do you coordinate care with specialists like cardiologists or oncologists?
- Dr. Banala's practice coordinates care seamlessly with specialists like cardiologists and oncologists. We handle referrals, share your medical information, and synthesize recommendations into a unified treatment plan for you. This ensures a comprehensive and coordinated approach to your care.
- What is your philosophy on maintaining quality of life for patients with serious illnesses?
- Our philosophy centers on managing symptoms effectively, aligning treatment plans with each patient's personal values and goals, and prioritizing comfort and dignity throughout their care.
620 S Lake St Ste 6
Leesburg FL 34748
Phone: (352) 315-0578
Dr. Dwaraknadh Banala, 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): 1437106614
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. Internal Medicine like Dr. Dwaraknadh Banala 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.