Dr. Eugene Ward, MD is a Gastroenterology specialist dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults (65 and over) at his clinic in Tampa, FL. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). As a partner in your senior health journey, Dr. Ward's expertise in managing complex digestive conditions common in seniors, such as colon cancer, GERD, swallowing disorders, and liver issues, is invaluable. He works collaboratively with your primary care physician and other healthcare providers to ensure the best possible care.
A gastroenterologist provides specialized expertise in managing complex digestive conditions common in seniors, such as colon cancer, GERD, swallowing disorders, and liver issues. Dr. Eugene Ward, MD, with over 45 years of experience in the medical field, brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. He earned his medical degree from Rutgers New Jersey Medical School in 1977 and is Board Certified in Gastroenterology and Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. He is affiliated with HCA Florida Brandon Hospital and Morton Plant Hospital and is currently accepting new patients. He is committed to a collaborative, evidence-based approach, ensuring patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. Dr. Ward provides consultations primarily in English and can be reached at (813) 972-1654 to schedule an appointment.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Eugene Ward is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Eugene Ward is a compassionate gastroenterologist dedicated to providing comprehensive and person-centered care for seniors. He expertly manages complex digestive conditions, including colon cancer, GERD, and liver issues, collaborating closely with primary care physicians and other specialists to ensure optimal health outcomes. Dr. Ward prioritizes understanding each patient's unique needs and goals, fostering a supportive environment where seniors can maintain their independence and comfort throughout their health journey.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Eugene Ward can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Aetna
Also Accepts These Carriers
- AvMed
- Blue Card High Performance Network HPN
- Blue Card PPO
- Blue Choice HMO
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Georgia
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida
- Blue Preferred Patient Care PPO
- BlueOptions HMO
- Choice Care Network PPO
- Choice Care PPO
- Choice Large Group POS
- Choice POS
- Choice Plus POS II
- Cigna
- Cigna PPO
- Curative
- Curative EPO
- Curative PPO
- Curative PPO Plus
- Elect Choice (Open Access) EPO
- Empower - Small Employer Groups
- Empower POS
- First Health
- First Health (Coventry Health Care) PPO
- Florida Blue
- HMO Premier HMO
- Humana
- Inc. d/b/a Florida Blue
- Managed Choice (Open Access) POS
- Medica Choice
- National POS
- Open Access Plus
- Open Choice PPO
- Preferred PPO
- Preferred Patient Care
- Premier Care Network Plus - Innovation Health
- Select HMO
- SimplyBlue HMO
- Tampa Bay HUMx HMOx
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Eugene Ward 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:
- Celiac Disease: If you have celiac disease, your body reacts badly to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. Sticking to a gluten-free diet is essential to reduce digestive problems and improve nutrient absorption.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): For seniors with GERD, simple changes like elevating the head of your bed and eating smaller, more frequent meals can significantly ease symptoms, allowing a better quality of life.
- Cholangitis: Cholangitis is an infection of the bile ducts, the tubes that carry bile from your liver to your intestines, and prompt treatment with antibiotics can often help manage the infection and prevent serious complications.
- Esophageal Ulcer: If you're experiencing difficulty swallowing or persistent chest pain, it might be an esophageal ulcer; timely diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications and ensure a better quality of life.
- Proctoptosis: If you're experiencing a bulge or protrusion from your rectum, it may be proctoptosis. This condition affects bowel movements and can cause discomfort, but treatments, including surgery or non-surgical options, are available to help you manage it effectively.
- Hiatal Hernia: Managing a hiatal hernia often involves medication to reduce stomach acid and dietary adjustments; with proper management, you can maintain your independence and enjoy a better quality of life.
- Barretts Esophagus with Dysplasia: Having Barrett's esophagus with dysplasia means some cells in your esophagus have abnormal changes, making it more likely to develop cancer; however, regular check-ups and treatments can help keep you healthy and independent.
- Indigestion: For seniors, indigestion can sometimes interfere with enjoying meals and socializing. With appropriate support, however, managing indigestion can improve your overall quality of life.
- Congenital Achalasia: Congenital achalasia is a lifelong condition where the swallowing mechanism is impaired from birth due to an issue with the esophagus muscles. However, appropriate intervention, potentially including procedures or medications, can ease swallowing difficulties.
- Hepatitis C: A diagnosis of Hepatitis C can be concerning, but modern treatments are highly successful in getting rid of the virus, leading to a healthier liver and helping older adults maintain an active lifestyle.
- Ischemic Colitis: Ischemic colitis is a condition where parts of your colon don't get enough blood, causing pain and bowel problems; timely diagnosis and management can help prevent complications and improve your comfort.
- Tapeworm Infection: Getting rid of a tapeworm infection is usually straightforward with medication prescribed by your healthcare provider, allowing you to regain your appetite and improve your digestive health.
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. Eugene Ward offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Colorectal Cancer Screening: Regular colorectal cancer screenings are a vital part of a senior's comprehensive healthcare plan, allowing for early detection and management of potential problems.
- Endoscopy: To monitor your liver health and detect any issues, endoscopy may be used to obtain a tissue sample for analysis.
- Manometry: Manometry helps create a personalized treatment plan by measuring the pressures and movements within your digestive system, allowing for targeted therapies for swallowing disorders and digestive issues.
- Screening Colonoscopy: This important screening test allows doctors to view the inside of your colon, detecting any abnormalities such as polyps or cancerous growths that may be present and need attention.
- pH Probe: A pH probe helps doctors understand the acidity levels in your esophagus to better manage your acid reflux (GERD).
- Impedance Testing: As part of your comprehensive care, impedance testing provides valuable information about your swallowing mechanism and identifies potential issues that may need attention.
- Duodenal Polypectomy: As part of your comprehensive care plan, duodenal polypectomy removes polyps from the duodenum, a part of your small intestine, minimizing your risk of future digestive issues.
- Sigmoidoscopy: To help manage potential colorectal issues, a sigmoidoscopy allows your doctor to directly visualize the lower part of your large intestine, enabling early detection of problems like polyps or inflammation.
- Instrumental Diagnostic Evaluation for Dysphagia: Instrumental diagnostic evaluation for dysphagia uses special tests to pinpoint the cause of swallowing difficulties, helping seniors receive targeted treatment and improve their quality of life.
- Colon Cancer Screening: As part of your comprehensive senior care, colon cancer screening provides valuable insights into your digestive health, helping to prevent or manage serious conditions.
- Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy is a screening test that allows doctors to view the inside of your colon to detect and remove precancerous polyps, helping prevent colon cancer.
- Wireless pH Testing: This convenient test uses a small sensor to monitor your stomach acid levels over time, providing valuable information for creating a personalized GERD treatment plan.
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 Gastroenterology in Florida.
Dr. Eugene Ward 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 tailored gluten-free diet plan, a senior couple experienced a significant reduction in digestive discomfort, enabling them to enjoy family meals and outings with renewed energy and confidence.
- With guidance on managing GERD, a senior couple found relief from nighttime heartburn, allowing them to sleep soundly and enjoy their nightly book club meetings again.
- With the infection under control, a senior couple could once again enjoy their evening strolls through the park, a cherished activity that had been hampered by persistent symptoms. Their gastroenterologist's guidance provided the support needed for a return to a more active and fulfilling lifestyle.
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 (Gastroenterology)
- American Board of Internal Medicine (Internal Medicine)
Here are answers to some common questions about Gastroenterological care with Dr. Eugene Ward:
- What is a Gastroenterologist?
- Dr. Ward and our practice specialize in the health of the entire digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, intestines, colon, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. We diagnose, treat, and prevent a wide range of digestive diseases to help seniors maintain comfort and health.
- Why is a colonoscopy so important for older adults?
- A colonoscopy is crucial for older adults because it's the most effective way to prevent colorectal cancer, a common concern in this age group. Dr. Ward can find and remove small growths called polyps, which, if left untreated, could develop into cancer. This proactive step is vital for long-term health and peace of mind.
- What can I expect during my first consultation with Dr. Eugene Ward?
- Your first consultation with Dr. Ward will be a comprehensive conversation about your digestive health. We will review your symptoms, diet, medications, and health history. This thorough evaluation is the first step toward creating a personalized plan to address your concerns, whether it's for heartburn, a change in bowel habits, or a screening.
- I have constant heartburn. Is it just 'acid reflux' or something more?
- We understand your concern about constant heartburn. While often related to GERD, it's important to have a thorough evaluation. Dr. Ward can determine the cause and recommend appropriate treatments, from lifestyle changes to medication, to manage your symptoms and prevent potential long-term issues.
- What are the treatment options for painful hemorrhoids?
- Hemorrhoids are a common and often uncomfortable issue, but many cases can be effectively managed with dietary changes and at-home care. Dr. Ward offers minimally invasive, in-office procedures like banding for persistent cases, which are quick, effective, and require little downtime.
- How do you manage Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis in seniors?
- Managing Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis in older adults requires a careful, personalized approach. We focus on controlling inflammation, managing symptoms, and maintaining nutrition while considering any other health conditions. Dr. Ward works to find the safest and most effective therapies to ensure the best possible quality of life.
- What is the preparation for a colonoscopy like?
- We understand that colonoscopy preparation can be a concern. It involves a specific diet and prescribed liquid solution to thoroughly clean the colon, which is crucial for Dr. Ward to perform a precise examination. Our practice provides detailed, step-by-step instructions to make the preparation process as smooth as possible.
- What does it mean if I have 'fatty liver disease'?
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) means there's extra fat stored in your liver. In early stages, it can often be improved with lifestyle changes like diet and exercise. Dr. Ward can help you monitor and manage this important health indicator.
3450 E Fletcher Ave Ste 310
Tampa FL 33613
Phone: (813) 972-1654
Dr. Eugene Ward, 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): 1730221524
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. Gastroenterology like Dr. Eugene Ward 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.