Dr. Ellen Melvin, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at her clinic in Vero Beach, FL. She 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. She primarily serves older adults (65 and older), but also includes younger adults with complex medical needs. Please call (772) 569-6869 to confirm if Dr. Melvin is currently accepting new patients.
Dr. Ellen Melvin, MD is an internist in Vero Beach, FL with over 50 years of experience in the medical field. She graduated from City University of New York School of Medicine in 1974 and is Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. With over 50 years of dedicated experience in Internal Medicine care, she brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to her patients and their families. She is affiliated with Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital. Dr. Melvin is committed to collaborative, evidence-based medicine and creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. She provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Ellen Melvin is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Ellen Melvin is a dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care focused on your overall well-being. She meticulously coordinates complex care, expertly manages chronic conditions, and prioritizes your independence and comfort, creating personalized plans to help you thrive as you age.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Ellen Melvin can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Anthem
- Blue Card PPO (PPO)
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield
- HealthyBlue 2.0
- HealthyBlue Advantage
- National (BlueCard) PPO (PPO)
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Ellen Melvin 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:
- Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Experiencing sudden weakness, dizziness, or vision changes? It might be a TIA, a temporary brain blood flow disruption. Getting immediate medical help is vital to prevent a larger, more debilitating stroke and to protect your long-term health and independence.
- Anemia: Anemia, a decrease in red blood cells, can cause fatigue, shortness of breath, and dizziness; working with your doctor to identify and address the underlying cause is crucial for restoring your health and improving your quality of life.
- Acute Upper Respiratory Infection: A URI is a temporary infection of your breathing passages above your lungs, leading to symptoms like a runny nose, sore throat, and cough. With proper rest and hydration, you can typically recover without complications and avoid impacting your activities.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): GERD is when stomach acid irritates the esophagus, leading to burning sensations and other issues, but with your doctor's help, through medication or dietary adjustments, you can often find relief and improve your quality of life.
- Reflux Esophagitis: Treatment for reflux esophagitis aims to reduce stomach acid and soothe the irritated esophagus, improving digestion and reducing painful symptoms.
- Arthritis: Dealing with arthritis means experiencing pain and swelling in your joints, but with the right plan from your doctor – including medication and therapies – you can actively manage your symptoms and enjoy your daily activities.
- Diarrhea: Managing diarrhea effectively means addressing fluid loss and finding relief from discomfort, which allows you to focus on the things that matter most.
- Limb Pain: Limb pain can be a sign of various health issues, and managing it effectively through medication, physical therapy, or other treatments can help you maintain your mobility and independence.
- Malaise and Fatigue: While some fatigue is normal, persistent tiredness and a general feeling of being unwell can dramatically affect your quality of life. Your doctor can help identify the cause and develop a treatment plan that gets you back on your feet.
- Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection affecting the bladder or kidneys that can lead to painful urination and discomfort. With the right medication prescribed by your doctor, you can effectively manage a UTI and continue enjoying your daily life.
- Venous Embolism and Thrombosis: Dealing with blood clots (VTE) can be concerning, but treatments like medication can help dissolve the clots, reduce pain, and lower the risk of dangerous complications, improving overall wellbeing.
- Hyperlipidemia: If you have hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol), it's important to know that it's a common condition treatable with diet changes, exercise, and sometimes medication. These changes can help protect your heart and maintain your overall well-being.
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. Ellen Melvin 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): To create a personalized care plan, your doctor may use an EKG to detect irregularities in your heartbeat, such as an abnormal rhythm or signs of a heart attack, ensuring you receive the most appropriate treatment.
- Immunization Administration: Immunization administration is a crucial preventive care step to protect seniors from vaccine-preventable diseases, helping them maintain their health and independence.
- Autonomic Testing: To create a comprehensive care plan for you, your doctor may use autonomic testing to identify the underlying cause of symptoms like dizziness, fainting, or digestive issues.
- Myofascial Release Therapy: Myofascial release therapy is a gentle hands-on technique that can help relieve chronic muscle pain and stiffness, improving mobility and comfort for seniors.
- Heart Biopsy: Heart biopsies help doctors determine the best treatment approach for heart disease, providing valuable insights into the underlying condition and informing future care.
- Anorectal Manometry: As part of a comprehensive assessment of your digestive health, anorectal manometry provides valuable information about your bowel's ability to control stool passage.
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. Ellen Melvin 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:
- Following a comprehensive treatment plan, the patient felt a renewed sense of security in their home, participating more fully in family activities and regaining their independence. They were able to resume their favorite hobbies, such as playing cards with friends, without the lingering fear of another episode.
- With anemia successfully managed, a senior felt renewed energy and returned to her beloved knitting circle, sharing her creations with friends and family.
- Feeling significantly better after a consultation, a senior was able to resume their beloved book club meetings, enjoying the stimulating discussions and social connections.
These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results vary and depend on many factors specific to each person. She 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. Ellen Melvin:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Dr. Melvin and her practice specialize in internal medicine, which means she's a primary care doctor focused exclusively on adult health. This makes her an expert in the many health issues that can arise as we age, including managing chronic conditions and coordinating your care with other specialists if needed.
- Does Dr. Ellen Melvin have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Dr. Melvin is an internist, specializing in adult medicine, and has extensive experience treating the unique health needs of older adults. She is knowledgeable about the conditions commonly affecting seniors and is well-equipped to provide comprehensive care.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Melvin and our team 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 valuable in ensuring clear communication and providing the best possible support for the patient.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Ellen Melvin?
- To prepare for your appointment with Dr. Melvin, 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'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 contacting your pharmacy directly. Please allow 2-3 business days for requests to be processed. If you have questions, please call 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 do you coordinate care with specialists like cardiologists or oncologists?
- Dr. Melvin coordinates care by acting as the team captain. She refers patients to specialists, shares crucial medical information, and synthesizes recommendations into a unified treatment plan. This ensures a comprehensive and well-coordinated approach to your care.
- What is your philosophy on maintaining quality of life for patients with serious illnesses?
- Our philosophy centers on providing personalized care that prioritizes symptom management and aligns treatment with each patient's unique values and goals. We strive to ensure comfort and dignity are paramount throughout their journey.
3675 20th St Ste C
Vero Beach FL 32960
Phone: (772) 569-6869
Dr. Ellen Melvin, 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): 1467433953
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. Ellen Melvin 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.