Dr. Ronald Powell, MD is a Gastroenterology specialist dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults (65 and over) at his clinic in Pensacola, FL. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). A gastroenterologist provides specialized expertise in managing complex digestive conditions common in seniors, such as colon cancer, GERD, swallowing disorders, and liver issues, working collaboratively with your primary care physician and other healthcare providers to ensure the best possible care. Dr. Powell's approach emphasizes a collaborative, evidence-based approach to medicine, fostering a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. He is currently welcoming new patients and can be reached at (850) 448-2819 to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Powell brings over 40 years of dedicated experience in Gastroenterological care to his practice, drawing upon a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care. He earned his medical degree from Indiana University School of Medicine in 1983 and completed a residency in Internal Medicine and a fellowship in Gastroenterology at the University of South Florida. His board certifications in Gastroenterology and Internal Medicine, both from the American Board of Internal Medicine, further validate his expertise. Dr. Powell, who is a highly respected member of the Pensacola medical community, has been providing specialized care at Medical Center Clinic since 1988, working closely with older adults (65 and over) to address their unique health needs. He is committed to providing personalized care, ensuring that every patient feels supported and informed throughout their journey. Dr. Ronald Powell provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Ronald Powell is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Ronald Powell 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 a holistic approach to care. His focus is on understanding each patient's unique needs and goals, fostering open communication with families, and creating a personalized plan to maximize comfort and independence.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Ronald Powell can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Aetna
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Cigna
Curative
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield
- Buckeye Community Health Plan
- Choice Plus
- Curative EPO
- Curative PPO
- Curative PPO Plus
- Health Net
- Medicare
- Tricare
- United Healthcare
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Ronald Powell 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:
- Hernia: A hernia occurs when a part of your intestine or other organ protrudes through a weakened area in the abdominal wall. While some hernias require no treatment, others may need surgery to prevent complications and improve your quality of life.
- Infectious Diarrheal Disease: Sometimes, a germ in your digestive system causes loose, watery stools, known as infectious diarrhea. Focus on staying hydrated and getting prompt medical attention if needed to help reduce symptoms and get back to your normal activities.
- Upper Digestive Tract Cancer: Cancers in the upper digestive system, like the esophagus or stomach, while serious, have treatments including targeted therapies and supportive care that aim to minimize symptoms and help you live as comfortably as possible.
- 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.
- Chronic Cholecystitis: Chronic cholecystitis is a persistent inflammation of your gallbladder which can lead to recurring abdominal discomfort. Working with your doctor to find the right management plan, whether it be medication, diet adjustments or surgery, can significantly improve your comfort level and reduce the impact on your activities.
- Gastrojejunal Ulcer: Gastrojejunal ulcers, sores in the digestive system's connection point, can be managed with medicine to heal the ulcer and alleviate discomfort, improving your overall well-being.
- Esophageal Motility Disorders: Esophageal motility disorders happen when the muscles in your esophagus don't work properly, making it hard to swallow, sometimes causing discomfort.
- Celiac Disease: For seniors with celiac disease, managing this condition involves avoiding gluten, which is found in many common foods. By carefully choosing what you eat, you can manage symptoms and keep your energy levels up, aiding in maintaining independence.
- Cirrhosis: Cirrhosis is a serious liver condition where healthy liver tissue is replaced with scar tissue, affecting its function; however, with careful monitoring and treatment, you can maintain your independence and comfort.
- Esophageal Cancer: If you're diagnosed with esophageal cancer, it's understandable to feel overwhelmed, but various treatment options exist to manage your condition, and support groups and healthcare providers can help you and your caregivers navigate the journey.
- Vascular Insufficiency of Intestines: Reduced blood flow to your intestines (vascular insufficiency) can affect digestion and lead to various symptoms; addressing underlying health issues, such as heart disease, and lifestyle adjustments can significantly improve symptoms and help you maintain your independence.
- Cyclical Vomiting: With proper treatment, cyclical vomiting can be better managed, reducing the burden of severe nausea and vomiting, allowing seniors to maintain their quality of life and social activities.
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. Ronald Powell offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Liver Biopsy: A liver biopsy provides essential insights into the health of your liver and helps doctors to determine the best course of action to support your well-being.
- Colon Cancer Screening: Regular colon cancer screenings are a crucial part of a senior's proactive healthcare plan, allowing for early detection and management of potential issues.
- Proctosigmoidoscopy: Proctosigmoidoscopy is a relatively simple procedure that plays a vital role in preventing serious colon conditions; your doctor uses it to examine the lower part of your colon for any signs of disease.
- Gallbladder Scan: If you're experiencing symptoms like abdominal pain, nausea, or indigestion, a gallbladder scan can aid your doctor in creating a comprehensive care plan by identifying the underlying cause in your gallbladder.
- Colonoscopy: This procedure helps manage your colorectal health by directly visualizing your colon, allowing for the removal of potentially harmful growths before they become cancerous.
- Liver Function Test: This blood test helps monitor your liver's function, aiding in the management of existing liver conditions and preventing complications.
- Rigid Proctosigmoidoscopy: This simple procedure helps assess the health of your rectum and lower colon, providing valuable information for your overall digestive health plan and identifying any issues early on.
- Pancreas Surgeries: Pancreas surgeries are operations performed to address various pancreatic issues, such as tumors, cysts, or inflammation, helping seniors manage serious health problems and improve their quality of life.
- Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: As part of your regular health checks, a flexible sigmoidoscopy can help your doctor assess the health of your lower colon and rectum, allowing for early detection and management of potential problems.
- Duodenal Polypectomy: If polyps are detected in your duodenum, duodenal polypectomy offers a safe and effective solution for their removal, promoting long-term digestive health in your golden years.
- Colorectal Cancer Screening: Colorectal cancer screening enables doctors to detect precancerous polyps and remove them before they develop into cancer, safeguarding a senior's long-term health.
- Capsule Endoscopy: As a less invasive alternative to traditional endoscopy, capsule endoscopy helps seniors with swallowing difficulties get a thorough small bowel examination, improving their care 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. Ronald Powell 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 expert guidance on managing their hernia, a senior couple felt secure again in their own home, able to enjoy their daily walks without discomfort.
- A senior felt significantly better after following a gastroenterologist's advice for managing infectious diarrhea, allowing them to resume their beloved book club meetings.
- After undergoing specialized treatments for upper digestive tract cancer, a senior felt empowered to resume their beloved hobby of painting, finding solace and joy in their artistic expression. The supportive care plan allowed them to experience a significant reduction in discomfort, improving their overall quality of life.
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. Ronald Powell:
- What is a Gastroenterologist?
- Dr. Powell is a gastroenterologist, or GI doctor, specializing in the health of your entire digestive system, including your esophagus, stomach, intestines, colon, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. He diagnoses, treats, and helps prevent digestive diseases to maintain your 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. Powell can find and remove small growths called polyps during the procedure, preventing them from developing 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. Ronald Powell?
- Your first consultation with Dr. Powell 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 heartburn, a change in bowel habits, or a screening.
- 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. Powell offers minimally invasive, in-office procedures such as banding for persistent problems, which are quick, effective, and require minimal downtime.
- I have constant heartburn. Is it just 'acid reflux' or something more?
- We understand your concern about constant heartburn. While frequent heartburn is often related to GERD, it's important to have Dr. Powell evaluate the cause. He can determine the underlying reason and recommend appropriate treatments, from lifestyle adjustments to medication, to effectively manage your symptoms and prevent potential esophageal issues.
- What is the difference between celiac disease and gluten sensitivity?
- Celiac disease is an autoimmune response to gluten, damaging the small intestine, while gluten sensitivity causes similar digestive symptoms without the immune reaction or intestinal damage. A gastroenterologist can accurately diagnose the condition and create a tailored management plan.
- What is the preparation for a colonoscopy like?
- We understand that colonoscopy preparation can be concerning. It involves a specific diet and prescribed liquid solution to thoroughly cleanse the colon. A clean colon is essential for Dr. Powell to perform a thorough and accurate examination. Our practice provides detailed instructions to make the process as straightforward as possible.
- 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. The goal is to control inflammation, manage symptoms, and maintain nutrition while carefully considering other health conditions. Dr. Powell works to find the safest and most effective therapies to ensure the best possible quality of life.
8333 N Davis Hwy
Pensacola FL 32514
Phone: (850) 448-2819
Dr. Ronald Powell, 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): 1164405965
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. Ronald Powell 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.