Dr. Eduardo Balbona, MD is an Internal Medicine physician deeply committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to older adults. He practices at his clinic in Jacksonville, FL, and is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine, practicing 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. Balbona is currently welcoming new patients; please call (904) 388-9202 to schedule an appointment.
With over 30 years of dedicated experience in Internal Medicine care, Dr. Balbona brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. He earned his medical degree from Augusta University Medical College of Georgia in 1990, completing an internship at the National Naval Medical Center in 1991 and subsequently a residency in Internal Medicine at the same institution in 1993. He is Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the National Board of Physicians and Surgeons. His extensive experience includes serving as a Naval Officer and Physician at the U.S. Capital, providing medical care to prominent officials. Dr. Balbona is a strong advocate for evidence-based medicine, with an emphasis on disease prevention and health maintenance. He continues to actively practice in a private internal medicine practice in Jacksonville, Florida, where he lives with his wife Kathleen and their two sons, and offers consultations in Spanish. The path to health begins with the proper appreciation of its value and the commitment to learn more about disease prevention and early detection. Via open communication and expert advice we hope to help you lay the foundations for a more vigorous, healthy and vital future.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Eduardo Balbona is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Eduardo Balbona is a dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care tailored to your unique needs. He meticulously coordinates complex care, manages chronic conditions with compassion, and focuses on maintaining your overall well-being and independence as you age. His approach emphasizes understanding your personal goals and creating a plan that prioritizes your comfort and continued thriving.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Eduardo Balbona can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Aetna
Assurant Health
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida
Cigna
Coventry Health Care
Coventry Health Care of Florida
Golden Rule
Humana
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Anthem
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield
- Buckeye Community Health Plan
- CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Curative
- Curative EPO (EPO)
- Curative PPO (PPO)
- Curative PPO Plus (PPO Plus)
- First Health
- First Health (Coventry Health Care)
- Group Health Cooperative
- Group Health Cooperative (GHC)
- HealthyBlue 2.0
- Inc.
- Medicare
- MultiPlan
- MultiPlan PPO (PPO)
- National (BlueCard) PPO (PPO)
- Navigate POS (POS)
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Eduardo Balbona 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:
- Constipation: Managing constipation involves increasing fiber intake, drinking plenty of fluids, and regular exercise, all of which can help maintain independence and comfort.
- Muscle Cramping: Don't let muscle cramps limit your enjoyment of life. With the right approach, involving both self-care and potential medical guidance, you can effectively manage them and keep living fully.
- Overweight: Overweight is when your body mass index (BMI) is higher than recommended, potentially putting you at risk for various health complications, however, with the help of your doctor, a gradual weight loss plan tailored to your needs can reduce those risks and promote better health.
- Wheezing: Wheezing is a whistling or sighing sound during breathing, often caused by narrowed airways, and managing it can help you breathe easier and stay active.
- Heart Palpitations: If you're feeling your heart pound or beat unusually, it's important to talk to your doctor. Understanding the cause of your palpitations can help you manage them effectively and improve your overall well-being.
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs): If you or a loved one is concerned about a possible STD, it's vital to seek medical advice immediately. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can ensure a quick recovery and maintain a good quality of life.
- Gas-Bloat Syndrome: Experiencing bloating and gas? Gas-bloat syndrome might be the cause, and thankfully, many effective strategies, from diet adjustments to medication, can help you feel better and maintain your active lifestyle.
- Hernia: Hernias are essentially a weakness in the body's wall allowing internal contents to protrude, and fixing the weakness, often through surgery, can greatly enhance your comfort levels and restore normal function.
- Shortness of Breath: Shortness of breath, or dyspnea, can make everyday activities feel harder, but understanding its cause and working with your doctor can often ease your breathing and improve your comfort.
- Gait Abnormality: Gait abnormalities are changes in walking patterns that can range from minor to significant; working with your doctor can lead to improved mobility and a higher quality of life.
- Asthma: Experiencing wheezing, chest tightness, or shortness of breath might indicate asthma, a treatable condition that, with the right care, can allow you to enjoy your daily activities without significant limitations.
- Long COVID Disorder: Experiencing ongoing health problems after a COVID-19 infection may mean you have Long COVID. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and improving your overall health, helping you stay as active and engaged as possible.
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. Eduardo Balbona offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): This simple blood test helps assess your blood's acid-base balance, crucial for managing conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
- 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: Immunization administration is a key component of a comprehensive care plan, ensuring seniors receive protection against potentially debilitating infections.
- Pap Smear: Regular Pap smears are a crucial part of preventive care, helping to identify precancerous changes before they become serious health problems.
- Smoking Cessation Counseling: As part of a comprehensive care plan, smoking cessation counseling supports seniors in overcoming nicotine addiction and reducing their risk of serious health problems.
- Bacteriuria Screening: Checking for bacteria in your urine through screening helps your doctor create a personalized care plan to manage any urinary tract infections effectively and keep you healthy.
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. Eduardo Balbona 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 a tailored plan emphasizing fiber-rich foods and increased hydration, a senior was able to resume their beloved daily walks, feeling more secure and comfortable in their home environment.
- With guidance from an internal medicine specialist, a senior was able to significantly reduce the frequency and intensity of muscle cramps, allowing them to enjoy evening walks with their grandchildren again.
- With a gradual weight loss plan, a senior felt more energetic and confident, allowing them to comfortably resume their favorite hobby of gardening. The family also felt a sense of relief knowing their loved one was healthier and more active.
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)
- National Board of Physicians and Surgeons (Internal Medicine)
Here are answers to some common questions about Internal Medicine care with Dr. Eduardo Balbona:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Dr. Balbona and our internists are primary care doctors specializing in adult health. They are experts in the many health issues that can arise with aging, including managing chronic diseases and coordinating your care with other specialists.
- Does Dr. Eduardo Balbona have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Dr. Balbona's practice specializes in adult medicine, including the unique health needs of older adults. He has extensive experience managing conditions common in later life, providing comprehensive and personalized care.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Balbona and our practice believe in a team approach to care. We welcome the involvement of family members and caregivers, with the patient's permission, as their participation is invaluable for clear communication and support.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Eduardo Balbona?
- Please bring a list of all 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'd like to discuss.
- How do I request a prescription refill?
- The easiest way to request a refill is through our patient portal or by calling the pharmacy directly. Please allow 2-3 business days for requests to be processed. If you have any questions, please contact our office.
- Does the practice accept Medicare?
- Yes, our practice proudly accepts Medicare. We are committed to providing high-quality care for our senior patients. We recommend contacting our office to confirm details about your specific plan.
- How does your practice support patients with multiple chronic conditions?
- Dr. Balbona's practice prioritizes coordinated care for patients with multiple chronic conditions. We work closely with specialists to create a unified care plan, manage medications effectively to avoid conflicts, and ensure all aspects of your health are addressed in a comprehensive way. This approach simplifies your healthcare experience and improves overall well-being.
- Does Dr. Eduardo Balbona treat acute illnesses like colds or the flu?
- Dr. Balbona and our team treat acute illnesses like colds and the flu. Please call the office at the first sign of symptoms so we can determine the best course of action for you.
2257 Oak St
Jacksonville FL 32204
Phone: (904) 388-9202
Dr. Eduardo Balbona, 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): 1073506168
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. Eduardo Balbona 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.