Dr. Ishan Gunawardene, Internist

Dr. Ishan Gunawardene

Internist in Port St. Joe, FL

(57 reviews)

Dr. Ishan Gunawardene is a Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive Internal Medicine care for older adults at his clinic in Wellington, FL. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and... Read More Below

Accepting New Patients Board Certified 30+ Years Experience
Professional Details

Dr. Ishan Gunawardene is a Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive Internal Medicine care for older adults at his clinic in Wellington, FL. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). As a trusted partner in your senior health journey, he serves primarily older adults (65 and older), but also including younger adults with complex medical needs. 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 is a Diplomate of the American Board of Internal Medicine, Chief of Staff at LakeSideMedicalCenter, Medical Director of the Hospitalist Program at LakeSideMedicalCenter, and Assistant Professor of Medicine at NovaSouthEasternUniversity Department of Internal Medicine. 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. He earned his medical degree from St. Georges University School of Medicine in 1991, followed by residency training in Internal Medicine at Coney Island Hospital in 1995. Dr. Gunawardene is Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine and offers consultations in Spanish. He is currently welcoming new patients; please call (561) 434-1935 to schedule an appointment.

A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Ishan Gunawardene is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.

Dr. Gunawardene is a dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care that prioritizes your overall well-being and independence. He meticulously coordinates complex care, manages chronic conditions, and focuses on creating a personalized plan that addresses your unique needs and goals, fostering a supportive environment for aging gracefully.

By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Ishan Gunawardene can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.

Specific Plans Accepted

Aetna
    AvMed
      Florida Blue
        Prestige Health Choice

          Also Accepts These Carriers

          • Anthem
          • Blue Card PPO (PPO)
          • Blue Care HMO (HMO)
          • Blue Cross Blue Shield
          • Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida
          • BlueDental Choice
          • Buckeye Community Health Plan
          • CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield
          • Choice Care PPO (PPO)
          • Choice Plus POS II (POS II)
          • Cigna
          • Cigna PPO (PPO)
          • Curative
          • Curative EPO (EPO)
          • Curative PPO (PPO)
          • Curative PPO Plus (PPO Plus)
          • First Health
          • First Health (Coventry Health Care) PPO (PPO)
          • HealthyBlue Advantage
          • Humana
          • Medicaid
          • Medicare
          • Midwest Health Plan
          • National (BlueCard) PPO (PPO)
          • Preferred PPO (PPO)
          • Select HMO (HMO)
          • United Healthcare
          • UnitedHealthCare

          Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Ishan Gunawardene 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:

          • Limb Swelling Caused by Fluid Overload: If you experience swelling due to fluid retention, it's important to consult your doctor; they can identify the underlying cause and create a treatment plan that will reduce swelling and improve your overall well-being.
          • Muscle Cramping: Muscle cramps can be a nuisance, but understanding their causes and using simple strategies like stretching and hydration can significantly reduce their frequency and impact on your life.
          • Sciatica: Sciatica is pain that radiates down your leg from your lower back, often caused by a pinched nerve, and managing it with gentle exercise, over-the-counter pain relievers, and physical therapy can significantly reduce discomfort and maintain your mobility.
          • Acute Sinusitis: Acute sinusitis, an infection in the sinuses, can cause discomfort and impact daily life; however, prompt treatment helps alleviate symptoms, preventing further problems and allowing you to feel better more quickly.
          • Malaise and Fatigue: Experiencing persistent tiredness and a general feeling of being unwell shouldn't be dismissed; it could signal an underlying health concern that your doctor can address, potentially leading to improved energy and a better quality of life.
          • Peripheral Autonomic Neuropathy: Peripheral autonomic neuropathy affects the nerves that regulate involuntary processes like digestion and blood pressure, sometimes leading to discomfort, but a tailored treatment approach including medication and regular check-ups can help you to feel better and remain independent.
          • Dysphagia: Difficulty swallowing, known as dysphagia, can impact your daily life, but with the help of a healthcare team, you can find ways to manage your symptoms, improving your nutrition and making mealtimes more comfortable and enjoyable.
          • Mild Asthma: Mild asthma is a type of lung disease that causes some breathing difficulties, but it's often easily controlled with medication, allowing you to maintain your independence and enjoy your daily activities with minimal disruption.
          • Abdominal Pain: Don't suffer silently with abdominal pain. Your doctor can work with you to find the root cause and develop a plan, enabling you to maintain independence and enjoy your daily routine.
          • Trichomoniasis: Trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted infection, can be treated effectively with medication prescribed by a doctor, ensuring your comfort and well-being.
          • Blepharitis: Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelids that can cause redness, itching, and burning, but it can be managed with warm compresses and gentle cleaning to improve comfort and keep your vision clear.
          • Enlarged Prostate (BPH): Experiencing urinary urgency, hesitancy, or a weak stream? An enlarged prostate (BPH) may be the cause, but many effective treatments are available to help you regain control and reduce discomfort.

          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. Ishan Gunawardene offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:

          • Abscess or Fluid Incision and Drainage: As part of a comprehensive approach to your health, incision and drainage can treat an infection, relieving symptoms and preventing further complications.
          • 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: This service ensures a smooth care journey for seniors undergoing complex procedures, coordinating appointments and follow-up care for optimal recovery.
          • 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.
          • Electrocardiogram (EKG): If you experience chest pain or shortness of breath, an EKG helps your doctor quickly diagnose the cause, providing timely intervention to prevent serious complications and ensuring your safety.
          • Fecal Occult Blood Test for Colorectal Cancer: This easy test, checking for hidden blood in your stool, can help your doctor find and manage colorectal cancer early, improving treatment outcomes.
          • Immunization Administration: Immunization administration is a key component of a comprehensive care plan, ensuring seniors receive protection against potentially debilitating infections.
          • Pap Smear: Including a Pap smear in your routine checkups empowers you and your doctor to actively manage your long-term health and well-being.
          • Smoking Cessation Counseling: This counseling helps manage the physical and psychological challenges of quitting smoking, empowering seniors to live healthier, longer lives.

          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. Ishan Gunawardene 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 receiving guidance from the internal medicine specialist, a senior felt significantly less discomfort from limb swelling, and was able to resume her favorite pastime of gardening without the added strain.
          • With the help of a personalized treatment plan, a senior couple found relief from frequent muscle cramps, enabling them to enjoy evening strolls and spend more time together without discomfort.
          • With gentle exercises and over-the-counter pain relievers, a senior was able to resume her daily walks in the park, a cherished activity that greatly improved her mood and overall well-being.

          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
          Education History
          • HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital Port St. Lucie (Residency Hospital)
          Board Certifications
          • American Board of Internal Medicine (Internal Medicine)

          Here are answers to some common questions about Internal Medicine care with Dr. Ishan Gunawardene:

          What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
          Dr. Gunawardene and our practice specialize in the care of adults, particularly older adults. Internists are primary care physicians who focus exclusively on adult health, making them uniquely skilled in managing the complex health concerns that commonly arise with age. They are experts in coordinating care and managing chronic conditions.
          Does Dr. Ishan Gunawardene have experience treating older adults or seniors?
          Dr. Gunawardene's practice specializes in adult medicine, including the unique health needs of older adults. He has extensive experience managing common conditions affecting seniors, and is well-equipped to provide comprehensive care.
          Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
          Dr. Gunawardene's practice believes in a team approach and welcomes the involvement of family members and caregivers, with the patient's permission. Their participation is valuable for ensuring clear communication and providing support throughout the care process.
          What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Ishan Gunawardene?
          To prepare for your appointment with Dr. Gunawardene, 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 address.
          How do I request a prescription refill?
          The easiest way to request a refill is through our patient portal or by calling the pharmacy listed on your prescription. Please allow 2-3 business days for requests to be processed.
          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 do you help patients who are at risk of falling?
          Fall prevention is a key focus in our practice. We review medications for side effects, assess mobility, and recommend physical therapy or home safety evaluations to help reduce fall risk.
          What is your approach to medication management, especially for patients taking many prescriptions (polypharmacy)?
          Dr. Gunawardene's practice prioritizes medication management, especially for patients on multiple medications. We conduct regular reviews to identify and address potential drug interactions, eliminate unnecessary prescriptions, and ensure the overall medication plan is safe and effective for each patient.

          3347 S State Road 7 Ste 206
          Wellington FL 33449
          Phone: (561) 434-1935

          Dr. Ishan Gunawardene 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): 1265453245

          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. Ishan Gunawardene 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.

          Map