Dr. Ernest Tong, MD is a Urology specialist dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive urological care for older adults (65+) at his clinic in Davenport, FL. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). As a partner in senior health, Dr. Tong understands the unique needs of this population and is committed to addressing age-related urinary and reproductive health issues, including benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostate cancer, and incontinence. General urologists provide expert medical and surgical care for these conditions, working closely with your primary care physician and other specialists to ensure comprehensive, personalized senior care.
Dr. Tong is a urologist with special training in advanced laparoscopic and robotic procedures. He is passionate about addressing a wide range of sensitive issues that affect patients lives and making an impact on their overall well-being. He takes a compassionate approach while also integrating leading-edge technology, such as robotic surgery, to improve patient outcomes. Dr. Tong earned his medical degree from the University of Texas Medical Branch. He also earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology at the University of Texas in Austin before attending medical school. He completed his urology residency at LSU Health Shreveport and a fellowship in advanced laparoscopic/robotics at Hackensack University Medical Center. He is currently welcoming new patients and can be reached at (229) 422-1486 to schedule an appointment. Dr. Ernest Tong provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. Ernest Tong is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Ernest Tong is a compassionate and dedicated partner in your senior's health journey, offering comprehensive urological care. He expertly addresses age-related urinary and reproductive health concerns, from benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) to prostate cancer and incontinence, always prioritizing the individual needs and goals of his patients. Working collaboratively with primary care physicians and other specialists, Dr. Tong ensures a personalized and holistic approach to senior care, maximizing comfort and independence for each patient.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Ernest Tong can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Blue Choice HMO
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Georgia
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida
- Blue Preferred Patient Care PPO
- Blue Select PPO
- BlueOptions HMO
- Choice Plus POS
- Florida Blue
- Inc. d/b/a Florida Blue
- Navigate HMO
- Navigate POS
- Nexus Open Access
- Options PPO
- SimplyBlue HMO
- UnitedHealthCare
- myBlue EPO
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Ernest Tong 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:
- Vesicoureteral Reflux: Vesicoureteral reflux happens when urine flows the wrong wayfrom the bladder back up to the kidneyspotentially causing infections. Fortunately, it can be managed effectively, often with medication, allowing you to live comfortably and minimize risks.
- Blood in Urine (Hematuria): Seeing blood in your urine can be concerning, but it's important to know that many treatable causes exist, and prompt medical attention can help manage the issue and maintain your comfort.
- Scrotal Pain: Don't suffer in silence scrotal pain is a common concern, and effective treatments are available to improve comfort and your overall quality of life.
- Prostatitis: If you're dealing with pelvic pain and urinary problems, it could be prostatitis. Fortunately, this condition is treatable, and many men find significant relief with the right medical care, enabling them to remain active and engaged.
- Enlarged Prostate (BPH): Experiencing frequent nighttime trips to the bathroom or trouble starting your urine stream? An enlarged prostate (BPH) might be the cause. Fortunately, many options exist to help relieve these symptoms and improve your quality of life.
- Chronic Prostatitis: Chronic prostatitis is a condition affecting the prostate that can lead to urinary problems and pain, but thankfully, many treatments are available to help manage symptoms and improve your quality of life.
- Hydronephrosis: If you're experiencing kidney pain or changes in urination, it could be hydronephrosis, a condition where a blockage prevents urine from draining properly; early intervention can usually restore normal kidney function and improve comfort.
- Balanoposthitis: Balanoposthitis, an infection or irritation of the penis head and foreskin, may cause discomfort and itching but is often easily managed with improved hygiene practices and sometimes medication, minimizing disruption to your daily life.
- Urethral Stones: Urethral stones are mineral deposits that obstruct the urethra, making it difficult to urinate and causing considerable discomfort; these stones can often be managed effectively through simple treatments, helping maintain your urinary health and independence.
- Chronic Bacterial Prostatitis: If you're experiencing recurring urinary symptoms like pain or difficulty urinating, it could be chronic bacterial prostatitis, a condition treatable with antibiotics to alleviate discomfort and improve your daily life.
- Kidney Stones: Kidney stones can interfere with your daily activities, but effective management, which may involve medication or surgical intervention, aims to alleviate the pain and improve your overall quality of life.
- Urinary Hesitancy: Having difficulty starting urination, sometimes described as urinary hesitancy, is a sign that might require medical attention to help you maintain your independence and 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. Ernest Tong offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Resection of Bladder Neck: For seniors struggling with weak urine stream or frequent urination, bladder neck resection offers relief by removing the blockage impeding normal bladder emptying.
- Prostate Removal: To improve quality of life by reducing symptoms of BPH or treating prostate cancer, prostate removal surgery may be recommended as a key step in senior care.
- Circumcision: Circumcision in senior care can be part of a broader strategy to address hygiene and potentially reduce the risk of infections in the urinary tract, contributing to a higher quality of life.
- Lithotripsy: Lithotripsy uses sound waves to break up kidney stones, making them easier to pass and relieving pain, a key step in managing kidney stone disease in seniors.
- Uroflowmetry: This painless test helps your doctor understand how quickly and efficiently urine flows from your bladder, aiding in the diagnosis and management of urinary problems.
- Orchiopexy for Undescended Testicle: This surgery helps manage undescended testicles, a common concern that can be addressed to enhance reproductive health and prevent long-term issues.
- Bladder Surgery: As part of a comprehensive care plan, bladder surgery may be used to improve bladder function and reduce incontinence in seniors.
- Prostatectomy with Robotic Assist: As part of a comprehensive prostate cancer care plan, robotic prostatectomy offers precise surgical removal of the prostate, potentially improving long-term outcomes.
- Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy or Pyelostolithotomy: This minimally invasive surgery is a treatment option for seniors experiencing significant pain and complications from kidney stones, offering a path toward better urinary health.
- Complex Penile Surgery: As part of a comprehensive urological care plan for seniors, complex penile surgery can correct anatomical defects or complications arising from other conditions.
- Prostate Cancer Screening Exam (DRE): A digital rectal exam (DRE) is a quick check your doctor performs to feel your prostate gland for any abnormalities, helping detect potential prostate problems early.
- Orchiectomy: In certain cases of testicular cancer or other conditions affecting the testicles, an orchiectomy is performed to remove the affected tissue and prevent further complications.
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 Urology in Florida.
Dr. Ernest Tong 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 starting medication to manage her vesicoureteral reflux, a senior woman felt significantly less frequent urinary urgency, allowing her to enjoy her evening walks with greater comfort and peace of mind.
- Concerned about blood in their urine, a senior felt reassured by the urologist's explanation of the various causes. The patient's peace of mind allowed them to resume their usual outdoor activities without worry.
- A retired carpenter experienced significant relief from persistent scrotal pain, allowing him to return to his beloved woodworking hobby without discomfort and regain his sense of independence.
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)
Here are answers to some common questions about Urological care with Dr. Ernest Tong:
- What is a Urologist?
- Dr. Tong is a urologist, a medical and surgical specialist who treats conditions of the urinary tract in both men and women, and the male reproductive system. His expertise is valuable for seniors dealing with issues like enlarged prostate, urinary incontinence, kidney stones, and cancers of the prostate, bladder, and kidneys.
- I have to urinate frequently, especially at night. Is this just a normal part of getting older?
- While urinary patterns can change with age, frequent or urgent urination is a medical symptom that should be evaluated. For men, it's often a sign of an enlarged prostate (BPH), and for both men and women, it can be a sign of an overactive bladder. Dr. Tong can diagnose the cause and offer many effective treatments to improve your comfort and sleep.
- What is a PSA test and who should have it?
- The PSA test is a simple blood test used to screen for prostate cancer. Deciding whether or not to have a PSA test is a personal choice best made after discussing the potential benefits and risks with your doctor. Dr. Tong can help you have this important conversation to make an informed choice based on your age, family history, and overall health.
- What is a cystoscopy?
- A cystoscopy is a common in-office procedure where Dr. Tong uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera to look inside your bladder and urethra. It's used to investigate issues like blood in the urine or recurring urinary tract infections. The procedure is quick and performed with numbing gel for your comfort.
- What is BPH (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia)?
- BPH is a common, non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that often occurs with age. As the prostate grows, it can squeeze the urethra, leading to urinary problems like a weak stream, frequent urination, and difficulty starting. Dr. Tong offers a range of treatments, from medication to minimally invasive procedures like UroLift® or Rezum.
- I'm experiencing erectile dysfunction (ED). Is this something a urologist treats?
- Yes, erectile dysfunction (ED) is a very common condition, and Dr. Tong is a urologist specializing in its treatment. ED can sometimes be linked to other health concerns like heart disease or diabetes. Dr. Tong can perform a confidential evaluation and discuss a range of effective treatments, from oral medications to other advanced therapies.
- I sometimes leak urine when I cough or laugh. What can be done?
- This is a common condition called stress urinary incontinence, often due to weakened pelvic floor muscles. It's very treatable, especially in women. Treatments range from exercises to minimally invasive procedures like a urethral sling.
- Are recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) common in older women?
- Yes, recurrent urinary tract infections are a common problem for postmenopausal women. Hormonal changes can weaken the urinary tract's natural defenses, making them more susceptible. Dr. Tong can investigate for underlying issues and develop a prevention strategy, which may include low-dose antibiotics or other therapies.
2217 North Blvd W
Davenport FL 33837
Phone: (229) 422-1486
Dr. Ernest Tong, 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): 1770015422
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 provider named. Urology like Dr. Ernest Tong 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.