Dr. Gobivenkata Balaji, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at his clinic in Melbourne, FL. 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. He is currently welcoming new patients, and you can schedule an appointment by calling (321) 215-6899. Our team provides medical care at the office, Holmes Regional Medical Center, Sea Pines Rehabilitation and Melbourne Terrace Nursing Home, with excellent coordination with local specialists. With over 30 years of dedicated experience in Internal Medicine care, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. Dr. Gobivenkata Balaji earned his medical degree from JJM Medical College, Davangere, Rajiv Gandhi University Of Health Sciences in 1991. Following medical school, he undertook residency training in Internal Medicine at UPMC McKeesport, graduating in 1999. He is Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. He is committed to a "patient first" approach and offers consultations in several languages, including Kannada, Tamil, and Telugu.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Gobivenkata Balaji is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Balaji is a dedicated partner in your health journey, offering comprehensive internal medicine care focused on your overall well-being and independence. He expertly manages chronic conditions, coordinates complex care, and prioritizes understanding your individual needs and goals, creating a personalized plan to help you thrive as you age.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Gobivenkata Balaji 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 (POS)
- Choice Plus POS II (POS II)
- Cigna
- Cigna HMO (HMO)
- Cigna PPO (PPO)
- Commercial Individual POS (POS)
- Elect Choice (Open Access) EPO (EPO)
- Florida Blue
- Florida Health Care Plan
- HealthyBlue Advantage
- Ind/Fam/Emp Triple Option
- Managed Choice (Open Access) POS (POS)
- Nexus Open Access
- Open Access Plus
- Options PPO (PPO)
- Premier Care Network Plus - Innovation Health
- Seamless HMO (HMO)
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Gobivenkata Balaji 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:
- Gout: If you experience sudden, intense joint pain, especially in your big toe, it might be gout; working with your doctor on a treatment plan can help minimize these episodes and preserve your active lifestyle.
- Sleep-Related Leg Cramp: Treatment for leg cramps can include over-the-counter pain relievers, muscle relaxants, or addressing vitamin deficiencies to reduce nighttime pain and improve your quality of life.
- Herpes Simplex Infection: Oral herpes, also known as cold sores, is a recurring viral infection that can be treated with medications to shorten outbreaks and minimize their impact on daily life.
- Viral Infection: A viral infection can be uncomfortable, but with appropriate rest, hydration, and possibly medication to manage symptoms, you can comfortably navigate your recovery and maintain your quality of life.
- Headache: Persistent headaches can affect your sleep, mood, and overall well-being, but with proper diagnosis and management, you can find relief and improve your quality of life.
- Esophagitis: Esophagitis is a condition where the lining of your esophagus becomes inflamed, leading to pain and difficulty swallowing, but manageable with medication and dietary adjustments to improve your eating experience and overall comfort.
- Testicular Dysfunction: While some age-related changes in the testicles are normal, significant dysfunction can affect sexual function and overall health; discussing any concerns with your physician can lead to improved comfort and well-being through appropriate treatment.
- Sciatica: Sciatica, a painful condition affecting the nerve running down the leg, can be eased with treatments like physical therapy, medication, and sometimes even injections, helping you stay active and independent.
- Dyslipidemia: Having dyslipidemia simply means your blood fat levels are off, increasing the chances of heart problems; however, through lifestyle changes and possibly medication, you can reduce these risks and maintain your independence.
- Nail Infection: Fungal or bacterial infections under or around your nails can cause discomfort and disfigurement; early diagnosis and treatment from your doctor can quickly clear it up and avoid worsening.
- Dermatitis Herpetiformis: This skin condition, dermatitis herpetiformis, is characterized by a bumpy, itchy rash that often responds well to a gluten-free diet and medication, helping seniors maintain their independence and enjoy life more fully.
- Hypotension (Excluding Maternal): Hypotension, or low blood pressure, can make you feel dizzy or lightheaded, but with careful monitoring and treatment, we can help you manage it and stay safe.
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. Gobivenkata Balaji offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Advance Directive End of Life Planning: Advance directive end-of-life planning allows you to make informed choices about your medical care, even if you can no longer communicate them yourself.
- Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): This test provides valuable information about your body's oxygenation and helps your doctor make informed decisions about your medication and treatment.
- Care Coordination for Complex Conditions and Procedures: Care coordination creates a personalized plan that addresses all aspects of a senior's health, improving their quality of life and preventing complications.
- Chronic Care Management: Chronic Care Management helps seniors with multiple health problems develop a personalized plan to better manage their conditions and improve their quality of life.
- Diabetes Counseling: With diabetes counseling, you'll work with a healthcare professional to set realistic goals and track your progress in managing your diabetes.
- Electrocardiogram (EKG): As part of your routine checkup, an EKG can help identify early signs of heart disease, allowing for proactive management of your condition and improve your overall well-being.
- Fecal Occult Blood Test for Colorectal Cancer: By detecting microscopic blood in your stool, the fecal occult blood test plays a critical role in early diagnosis and management of colorectal cancer, a common concern for seniors.
- Immunization Administration: Immunization administration is a key component of a comprehensive care plan, ensuring seniors receive protection against potentially debilitating infections.
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. Gobivenkata Balaji 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:
- With guidance from an internal medicine specialist, a senior was able to reduce the frequency and intensity of gout attacks, allowing her to resume her beloved daily walks with renewed confidence.
- After receiving guidance on managing sleep-related leg cramps, a senior couple found themselves able to enjoy uninterrupted nights of rest, leading to renewed energy and a more fulfilling daily life.
- With the guidance of a knowledgeable medical professional, a senior was able to successfully manage their oral herpes outbreaks, allowing them to resume their beloved hobby of playing the piano without interruption.
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)
- Diplomate, American Board of Clinical Lipidology, 2007
- Fellow of American College of Physicians, 7/1/2005
- Clinical Hypertension Specialist Certification by American Society of Hypertension, July 2005
- Resident of the year at UPMC McKeesport, PA, July 1998
- Mucormycosis associated with Deferoxamine therapy after allogenic bone marrow transplantation
- u201cRadiotherapy for cancer patients aged 80 and older: a study of effectiveness and side effectsu201d
- u201cToxin producing Group G Streptococcus causing recurrent pharyngitis and skin rash.u201d
- u201cChronic Q fever in an avian Pathologist.u201d
- Comparison of Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction between Echocardiography and Gated SPECT u2013 A Pilot Study
- u201cVillaret Syndrome in a patient with Prostate Canceru201d
Here are answers to some common questions about Internal Medicine care with Dr. Gobivenkata Balaji:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Internists, like Dr. Balaji, are primary care doctors who specialize in adult health. They are experts in the many health concerns that can arise as people age, including managing chronic conditions and coordinating care with other specialists.
- Does Dr. Gobivenkata Balaji have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Yes, Dr. Gobivenkata Balaji is an internist, meaning he is specifically trained in adult medicine and has extensive experience managing the health needs of older adults, including conditions common in later life.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Balaji's practice strongly believes in a team approach to care, and welcomes the participation of family members and caregivers, with the patient's permission. Their involvement is invaluable in ensuring clear communication and providing comprehensive support.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Gobivenkata Balaji?
- To prepare for your first appointment with Dr. Balaji, 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 questions or concerns you have written down.
- How do I request a prescription refill?
- The easiest way to request a prescription refill is through our patient portal. Please allow 2-3 business days for your request to be processed. If you have any questions, please contact our office.
- 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.
- How does Dr. Gobivenkata Balaji approach managing type 2 diabetes?
- Dr. Balaji's approach to type 2 diabetes management is comprehensive, encompassing medication management tailored to individual needs, regular blood sugar monitoring, and crucial lifestyle counseling focusing on diet, exercise, and foot care. This empowers patients to actively participate in their health journey and achieve optimal control of their condition.
- How do you coordinate care with specialists like cardiologists or oncologists?
- Dr. Balaji's practice coordinates care seamlessly with specialists like cardiologists or oncologists. We handle referrals, share all relevant medical information, and synthesize recommendations into a unified treatment plan tailored to your loved one's needs. This ensures comprehensive and coordinated care.
298 Michigan Ave Ste 101
Melbourne FL 32901
Phone: (321) 215-6899
Dr. Gobivenkata Balaji, 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): 1649230459
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. Gobivenkata Balaji 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.