Dr. Merle Lewis, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at his clinic in Palm Bay, 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 serves primarily older adults (65 and older), but also including younger adults with complex medical needs.
Dr. Merle Lewis, MD is an internist in Palm Bay, FL, affiliated with Viera Hospital and Cape Canaveral Hospital. He is Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Dr. Lewis is committed to collaborative, evidence-based medicine, creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. To confirm if he is currently accepting new patients, please call (321) 434-8078. Dr. Merle Lewis provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Merle Lewis is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Lewis acts as a compassionate and dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care. He meticulously coordinates complex care, effectively manages chronic conditions, and focuses on preserving your overall well-being and independence, empowering you to thrive in your later years.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Merle Lewis can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Choice Plus POS (POS)
- Navigate HMO (HMO)
- Navigate Plus POS (POS)
- Nexus Open Access
- Options PPO (PPO)
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Merle Lewis 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: Limb swelling from fluid retention can be managed effectively with medical attention, often through medications and dietary adjustments, which can significantly ease discomfort and help you remain active and independent.
- Neurogenic Bladder: A neurogenic bladder means that nerve damage impacts your bladder's ability to work properly, leading to issues like frequent urination, incontinence, or difficulty emptying, however, your doctor can help you find ways to manage these challenges.
- Vitamin B12 Deficiency: Vitamin B12 is crucial for healthy nerves and blood cells; a deficiency can affect your energy levels and cognitive function, but it's treatable with supplements or injections to significantly improve your quality of life.
- Atrial Flutter: If you have atrial flutter, your heart's upper chambers beat rapidly and chaotically, possibly leading to dizziness or palpitations; however, doctors can regulate this rhythm to prevent serious complications and enhance your quality of life.
- Pharyngitis: Pharyngitis, or a sore throat, is a common infection or irritation of the throat that can cause pain, difficulty swallowing, and sometimes fever, but it's usually treatable with rest and over-the-counter remedies.
- Mastodynia: Breast pain (mastodynia) can be uncomfortable, but with proper diagnosis and management strategies from your physician, such as medication or supportive bras, many women find significant relief, allowing them to maintain their independence.
- Heart Disease: Heart disease is a broad term for conditions impacting the heart, and working closely with your doctor to manage it through proper diet, exercise, and medication helps reduce symptoms and prevents complications.
- Acidosis: Acidosis means your body's acid-base balance is off, leading to potential weakness or fatigue; however, with proper medical attention, you can effectively manage this and enhance your overall well-being.
- Cholecystitis and Gallstones: Gallstones are hardened deposits that can form in your gallbladder, and cholecystitis is the inflammation of this organ, often caused by these stones, leading to pain and discomfort; however, with proper medical care and sometimes surgery, you can effectively manage the condition and improve your comfort levels.
- Liver Damage from Alcohol: For seniors, managing alcohol-related liver damage often involves reducing or stopping alcohol consumption, along with medications and a healthy diet, to help maintain your independence.
- Swine Flu: If you're concerned about swine flu, know that it's a viral infection that commonly causes flu-like symptoms, and your doctor can prescribe medications to shorten the illness and prevent serious health issues, promoting better independence.
- Enlarged Prostate (BPH): As men age, their prostate gland may grow larger, leading to urinary problems; thankfully, your doctor can help manage this condition (BPH) with medication or minimally invasive procedures to improve your quality of life.
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. Merle Lewis offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): An arterial blood gas test helps your doctor understand how well your lungs are working and how your body is managing oxygen and carbon dioxide.
- 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.
- Immunization Administration: Through timely immunizations, we can help prevent hospitalizations and complications related to infectious diseases, keeping seniors healthier and more active.
- Sleep Study: A sleep study helps your doctor diagnose sleep disorders like apnea or insomnia, improving your sleep quality and overall health.
- Injury Prevention: Injury prevention programs offer tailored recommendations to reduce fall risks, improving mobility and preventing serious health consequences.
- Endometrial Ablation: As part of a comprehensive care plan, endometrial ablation offers a treatment option for women experiencing debilitating heavy periods, improving overall well-being.
- Lung Cancer Treatment: As part of your comprehensive care plan, lung cancer treatment aims to shrink tumors, relieve symptoms, and improve your overall health.
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. Merle Lewis 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 effective medical management, a senior was able to resume their beloved daily walks without the persistent discomfort of limb swelling, regaining a sense of mobility and independence.
- With a personalized management plan, a senior felt more secure at home, and able to enjoy their favorite hobby of gardening without the worry of frequent trips to the bathroom.
- A senior citizen, previously experiencing fatigue and mental fog, found renewed energy and clarity after receiving appropriate vitamin B12 treatment. Family members were relieved to see their loved one regain their zest for life and participate in familiar activities once more.
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
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- 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. Merle Lewis:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Dr. Lewis and her team are internists, meaning they are primary care doctors who specialize in adult health. They are experts in the many health issues that can arise with aging, and excel at managing chronic conditions and coordinating care for older adults.
- Does Dr. Merle Lewis have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Dr. Lewis is an internist, specializing in adult medicine, and has extensive experience treating the unique health needs of older adults. She 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. Lewis and our team believe in a team approach to care. We welcome the involvement of family members and caregivers, with the patient's permission, as their participation is valuable for ensuring clear communication and support.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Merle Lewis?
- 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 or by contacting your pharmacy directly. Please allow 2-3 business days for requests to be processed. Dr. Lewis's office will also follow up with any outstanding issues.
- 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. Merle Lewis treat acute illnesses like colds or the flu?
- Dr. Lewis and our practice treat acute illnesses such as colds and the flu. Please call the office at the first sign of symptoms to discuss the best course of action for your care.
- Does your office help with preventive care like flu shots and other immunizations?
- Dr. Lewis and her team are dedicated to preventive care. We provide essential adult immunizations, including annual flu shots, and help patients stay up-to-date on recommended screenings. This is a key part of our practice.
1425 Malabar Rd NE
Palm Bay FL 32907
Phone: (321) 434-8078
Dr. Merle Lewis, 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): 1114380821
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. Merle Lewis 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.