Dr. Ernesto Porras Polo, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at his Delray Beach, FL clinic. 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. Currently, Dr. Polo is not accepting new patients, but you can call (561) 865-5151 to inquire about waitlists or future openings.
Dr. Ernesto Porras Polo, MD is an internist in Delray Beach, FL with over 30 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from Universidad Libre De Colombia, Facultad De Medicina in 1993 and completed his residency training in Internal Medicine at Woodhull Medical And Mental Health Center in 2005. Dr. Polo is Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine and is affiliated with Good Samaritan Medical Center. With this wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care, he brings a deep understanding of the unique needs of older adults, and he is committed to evidence-based medicine and collaborative care. He strives to create a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. He offers consultations in Spanish.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Ernesto Polo is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Ernesto Polo is a dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care with a compassionate focus on your overall well-being. He meticulously coordinates complex care, manages chronic conditions, and prioritizes your independence and comfort, tailoring a personalized plan to help you thrive as you age.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Ernesto Polo can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- APCN Choice POS II (POS II)
- Aetna
- Aetna HMO (HMO)
- Blue Card High Performance Network HPN (HPN)
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- BlueCard PPO (PPO)
- BlueCare HMO (HMO)
- BlueOptions
- BlueSelect
- CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
- Choice
- Choice Plus POS II (POS II)
- Cigna
- Cigna PPO (PPO)
- Elect Choice (Open Access) EPO (EPO)
- Florida Blue
- HealthyBlue Advantage
- LocalPlus
- Managed Choice (Open Access) POS (POS)
- Open Access Plus
- Open Choice PPO (PPO)
- Premier Care Network Plus - Innovation Health
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Ernesto Polo 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:
- Eczema and Contact Dermatitis: Managing eczema and contact dermatitis involves identifying and avoiding triggers like soaps or certain fabrics, using prescribed creams or ointments to relieve itching and prevent infection, and improving overall skin health and well-being.
- Intestinal Diverticulitis: Diverticulitis, an inflammation of small pouches in your digestive tract, can be treated effectively with medication and dietary adjustments to help you stay comfortable and maintain your daily activities.
- Esophagitis: Esophagitis is an inflammation of the esophagus, the tube connecting your mouth and stomach, often causing discomfort and difficulty swallowing, but treatable with medication and lifestyle changes to improve your daily life.
- Hypercalcemia: Hypercalcemia is a condition where you have too much calcium in your blood, which can cause tiredness, weakness, and kidney problems, but with proper medical management, including medication and lifestyle changes, you can feel better and maintain your independence.
- Painful Urination (Dysuria): Dysuria, or painful urination, is often easily managed with medication or lifestyle changes prescribed by your doctor, making it less disruptive to your daily routine.
- Diverticulitis: Diverticulitis happens when these little pockets in your intestines become infected, causing pain and discomfort, but with the right care, you can feel better and stay independent.
- Viral Enteritis: Viral enteritis is a stomach bug caused by a virus, leading to diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach cramps, often resolving on its own with supportive care.
- Dehydration: If you're experiencing dry mouth, less frequent urination, or unusual fatigue, dehydration could be the cause, a condition easily managed with appropriate hydration strategies to maintain your independence.
- Polyuria: Polyuria means making unusually large amounts of urine, which can disrupt sleep and daily life, but understanding its cause and following your doctor's plan can help manage this and improve your comfort.
- 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.
- Nighttime Urination (Nocturia): Nocturia, or needing to urinate frequently at night, is a common problem among older adults that can disrupt sleep and overall well-being, but there are effective strategies to manage it and improve your rest.
- Constipation: Treatment for constipation can include simple lifestyle changes like dietary adjustments and over-the-counter medications, improving bowel regularity and 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. Ernesto Polo offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): To create a personalized care plan, your doctor may order an arterial blood gas test to accurately assess your respiratory and overall health.
- 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: This service provides ongoing support for seniors dealing with long-term illnesses, helping them track their health, manage medications, and prevent complications.
- Diabetes Counseling: Through diabetes counseling, you'll learn practical strategies for healthy eating, regular exercise, and medication management to improve your overall well-being.
- Electrocardiogram (EKG): An electrocardiogram (EKG) is a simple test that uses small sensors placed on your chest to check your heart's rhythm and electrical activity, helping your doctor assess your heart health and manage any potential problems.
- Fecal Occult Blood Test for Colorectal Cancer: To support your overall health, a fecal occult blood test is used to screen for colorectal cancer, allowing for early intervention and better health management.
- Immunization Administration: Getting vaccinated helps manage the risk of serious illnesses, such as influenza and pneumonia, common among older adults, thereby improving their overall well-being.
- Obesity Counseling: Through discussions about diet and lifestyle, obesity counseling supports seniors in managing their weight, lowering the risk of related health problems like diabetes and heart disease.
- Pap Smear: This quick test can help manage your risk of cervical cancer by detecting abnormal cells early, enabling prompt intervention.
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. Ernesto Polo 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:
- Finding relief from persistent eczema and contact dermatitis itching allowed a senior to resume her beloved knitting hobby without discomfort, improving her overall well-being and quality of life.
- After experiencing significant discomfort from intestinal diverticulitis, a senior felt much improved with the help of a personalized treatment plan, enabling them to resume their favorite pastime of gardening again.
- With medication and lifestyle adjustments guided by a knowledgeable professional, a senior couple found significant relief from the discomfort of esophagitis, allowing them to enjoy their favorite meals and spend more time together without pain.
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. Ernesto Polo:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Dr. Polo's practice specializes in internal medicine, which means he is a primary care doctor who focuses exclusively on adult health. He is uniquely trained to handle the diverse and often complex health issues that can develop as people age, including managing chronic conditions and coordinating care with other specialists.
- Does Dr. Ernesto Polo have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Dr. Polo 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 common 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. Polo's practice strongly believes in a team approach to care. We welcome the participation of family members and caregivers, with the patient's permission, as their insights are invaluable for clear communication and support.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Ernesto Polo?
- To prepare for your first appointment with Dr. Polo, 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. You can also call our office 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.
- Does Dr. Ernesto Polo treat acute illnesses like colds or the flu?
- Dr. Polo and our team are happy to provide care for acute illnesses like colds and the flu. Please call the office at the first sign of symptoms to discuss the best course of action for you.
- How do you coordinate care with specialists like cardiologists or oncologists?
- Dr. Polo's practice coordinates care seamlessly with specialists like cardiologists and oncologists. We handle referrals, share your medical information, and synthesize recommendations into a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your needs. This ensures all your care is well-integrated and addresses your overall health.
16244 S Military Trl Ste 470
Delray Beach FL 33484
Phone: (561) 865-5151
Dr. Ernesto Porras Polo, 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): 1952332652
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. Ernesto Polo 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.