Dr. Ernesto Rodriguez, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at his Zephyrhills, 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. Dr. Rodriguez is currently welcoming new patients; please call (813) 782-1234 to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Rodriguez, a native of Ponce, Puerto Rico, has been a valued member of the Tampa Bay area medical community since 2006. He earned his medical degree from Ponce Health Sciences University School of Medicine and is Board Certified in Rheumatology by the American Board of Internal Medicine. He enjoys spending time with his family, including his wife, daughter, son, and a 5-year-old golden retriever. He approaches patient care with a collaborative, evidence-based philosophy, creating a supportive and respectful environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. Dr. Rodriguez provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Ernesto Rodriguez is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Ernesto Rodriguez is a compassionate and dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care. He prioritizes understanding your unique needs and goals, coordinating complex medical care, and proactively managing chronic conditions to help you maintain your independence and overall well-being as you age. He works collaboratively with you, your family, and other healthcare professionals to create a personalized plan that focuses on your comfort and quality of life.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Ernesto Rodriguez 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)
- AvMed
- Blue Card High Performance Network HPN (HPN)
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- BlueCard PPO (PPO)
- BlueCare HMO (HMO)
- BlueOptions
- BlueSelect
- CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
- Choice
- Choice Care Network PPO (PPO)
- Choice Care PPO (PPO)
- Choice Large Group POS (POS)
- Choice POS (POS)
- Choice Plus POS II (POS II)
- Cigna
- Cigna HMO (HMO)
- Cigna PPO (PPO)
- Elect Choice (Open Access) EPO (EPO)
- FL Medical Providers
- First Health
- First Health (Coventry Health Care) PPO (PPO)
- Florida Blue
- HMO Premier HMO (HMO)
- HealthyBlue Advantage
- Humana
- LocalPlus
- Managed Choice (Open Access) POS (POS)
- National POS (POS)
- Open Access Plus
- Open Choice PPO (PPO)
- Preferred PPO (PPO)
- Premier Care Network Plus - Innovation Health
- Seamless HMO (HMO)
- Select HMO (HMO)
- SimplyBlue
- Small Group Elect HMO (HMO)
- Tampa Bay HUMx HMOx (HMOx)
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Ernesto Rodriguez 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:
- Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP): Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) may cause excessive bleeding and bruising due to low platelet counts; fortunately, treatment options, such as medication, help manage this condition and minimize daily disruptions.
- Bursitis: Bursitis, an inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs around your joints, can cause significant pain and stiffness, but with proper care such as physical therapy and medication, you can manage your symptoms and maintain your independence.
- Gout: Gout is a type of arthritis causing painful swelling in your joints, often the big toe, that's managed with medication and lifestyle changes to ease discomfort and maintain your mobility.
- Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus: This type of lupus affects the skin, resulting in rashes, sores, or discoloration that can be treated with various medications and lifestyle changes to help you feel more comfortable and confident.
- Difficulty With Walking: Changes in your ability to walk can be addressed through careful evaluation and personalized care. We'll explore options to improve balance, strength, and overall mobility, so you can enjoy your life to the fullest.
- Post-Viral Disorder: Sometimes, after a viral illness, symptoms like brain fog or exhaustion persist; this is a post-viral disorder, and your doctor can help you find ways to cope with these symptoms and maintain your independence.
- Chronic Neck Pain: Chronic neck pain can impact sleep, mood, and daily functioning, but many treatments, such as gentle stretches, medication, and other therapies, can help reduce pain and restore your ability to move comfortably.
- Dupuytrens Contracture: This hand condition, Dupuytren's contracture, involves thickening of the tissue under the skin of the palm, leading to bent fingers; with treatment, you can regain easier hand movement and improved daily life.
- Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis that causes joint pain and stiffness, often making everyday activities more challenging, but with proper management, you can maintain your mobility and independence.
- Acute Upper Respiratory Infection: An acute upper respiratory infection (URI) is a common short-term illness affecting the nose, throat, and airways, often causing cold-like symptoms that can be managed with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications, helping you feel better and maintain your daily routines.
- Dermatomyositis: If you have dermatomyositis, you may experience muscle weakness and a skin rash; thankfully, there are treatments available to help manage these symptoms and improve your quality of life.
- 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. Ernesto Rodriguez 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).
- Bone Density Scan: By measuring bone density, this scan helps your doctor determine if medications or lifestyle changes are needed to protect you from fractures.
- 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.
- Joint Fluid Test: By examining the fluid from your joint, a joint fluid test helps your doctor determine the best course of action to manage your joint pain and improve your comfort.
- Musculoskeletal Function Test: A musculoskeletal function test helps your doctor understand your strength, flexibility, and range of motion to create a personalized exercise plan.
- Osteoporosis Screening: To maintain mobility and quality of life, osteoporosis screening is a key step in proactively managing bone health as you age.
- Steroid Injection: Steroid injections offer short-term relief from severe flare-ups of chronic conditions, supporting overall comfort and better quality of life for seniors.
- Ultrasound: Ultrasound helps your doctor visualize various parts of your body, allowing for better informed decisions about managing chronic conditions and creating a personalized care plan.
- Viscosupplementation With Hyaluronate: Viscosupplementation with hyaluronate is a non-surgical approach that may be included in a senior's osteoarthritis management strategy to lessen pain and improve their quality of life.
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 Rodriguez 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:
- A senior, previously concerned about falls due to ITP, felt more secure navigating their home after medication helped stabilize their platelet counts. The family rejoiced in the reduced bruising and bleeding, allowing them to resume their cherished book club meetings.
- With bursitis symptoms significantly reduced, a senior couple was thrilled to resume their weekly ballroom dancing, a cherished activity that brought them joy and connection.
- A senior felt a significant reduction in gout-related pain, allowing them to return to their beloved hobby of playing mahjong with friends, a cherished social activity.
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 (Rheumatology)
Here are answers to some common questions about Internal Medicine care with Dr. Ernesto Rodriguez:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Dr. Rodriguez and his team are internists, meaning they are primary care doctors who specialize in treating adults. 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. Ernesto Rodriguez have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Yes, Dr. Rodriguez is an internist, specializing in adult medicine, and has extensive experience treating the unique health needs of older adults. He is knowledgeable about the common conditions and concerns of seniors.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Rodriguez and our practice believe in a team approach to care. We welcome the participation of family members and caregivers, with the patient's permission, as their input is valuable in ensuring clear communication and support.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Ernesto Rodriguez?
- 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?
- 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 any 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 does your practice support patients with multiple chronic conditions?
- Dr. Rodriguez's practice works as a central hub, coordinating care with specialists to create a unified plan. We carefully manage medications to avoid conflicts and ensure all treatments support your overall health goals. This collaborative approach simplifies your healthcare experience and improves outcomes.
- What is your philosophy on maintaining quality of life for patients with serious illnesses?
- Dr. Rodriguez's practice prioritizes a patient-centered approach. Our primary goal is to manage symptoms effectively, aligning treatment with each patient's personal values and goals. Comfort and dignity are always prioritized.
38135 Market Square Dr
Zephyrhills FL 33542
Phone: (813) 782-1234
Dr. Ernesto Rodriguez, 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): 1457546731
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 Rodriguez 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.