Dr. Ruben Valdes, DO is an Internal Medicine physician practicing at his clinic in Tampa, FL, dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive Internal Medicine care for older adults. He is a registered member of 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. Currently, Dr. Valdes is not accepting new patients, but you are welcome to call (813) 901-8585 to inquire about waitlists or future openings.
Dr. Ruben Valdes, DO is an internist in Tampa, FL, and has over 50 years of experience in the medical field. He earned his medical degree from Kansas City University College Of Osteopathic Medicine in 1971. With over 50 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 is Board Certified in Family Practice/OMT by the American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians. His approach to care is grounded in collaborative, evidence-based medicine, creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. Dr. Valdes provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Ruben Valdes is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Valdes is a compassionate partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care that prioritizes your well-being and independence. He meticulously manages chronic conditions, coordinates complex care, and focuses on fostering a strong doctor-patient relationship to ensure a smooth and supportive experience as you age.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Ruben Valdes can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Choice Care PPO (PPO)
- Humana
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Ruben Valdes 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:
- Diabetes: Diabetes can affect many parts of your body, but by closely monitoring your blood sugar and following your treatment plan, you can reduce the risk of serious complications and enjoy a better quality of life.
- Hypertension: Hypertension, often called high blood pressure, is a condition where your blood pressure is consistently too high, but regular checkups and the right medications can help keep it under control and prevent serious health problems.
- Familial Hypocalciuric Hypercalcemia: FHH is a genetic disorder affecting calcium regulation, often resulting in mildly elevated calcium levels which typically don't cause problems and may only be detected during routine blood tests.
- Ischemia: Managing ischemia involves lifestyle changes like better diet and exercise alongside medical intervention to prevent further blockages and preserve organ function.
- Fibrosis: While fibrosis can't always be completely reversed, treatment can help manage symptoms, prevent further damage, and improve your overall quality of life.
- Anterior Horn Disease: If you've been diagnosed with anterior horn disease, you're not alone. Many people experience muscle weakness and difficulties with mobility, but with the right support and medical care, you can still live a fulfilling life and manage your symptoms effectively.
- Pulmonary Edema: A condition called pulmonary edema causes fluid to accumulate in the air sacs of your lungs, resulting in breathlessness, but with treatment focused on managing fluid levels and underlying heart or lung conditions, you can improve your breathing and energy levels.
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. Ruben Valdes 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.
- Earwax Removal: Regular earwax removal, as advised by your doctor, can be a preventative measure in a proactive care plan for seniors.
- 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.
- Joint Injection: Joint injections are sometimes used to diagnose the cause of joint pain by observing the response to injected medication, aiding in creating a tailored treatment strategy.
- Physical Examination: Through a physical exam, your doctor can detect subtle signs of illness or changes in your body, allowing for timely intervention and better management of chronic conditions.
- Trigger Point Injection: Trigger point injections are a treatment option that can help relieve muscle pain and stiffness in seniors by targeting specific, sensitive areas.
- Vaccination: Vaccination is a simple yet powerful tool in managing chronic health conditions in older adults by boosting immunity and preventing severe complications.
- Wound Care and Management: Assessing and treating wounds is crucial in preventing long-term health problems for seniors.
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. Ruben Valdes 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 careful blood sugar monitoring and a personalized treatment plan, a senior couple regained their energy and confidence to enjoy their favorite outdoor activities, like walking in the park together.
- With regular checkups and medication, a senior couple found relief from the anxiety of uncontrolled blood pressure, allowing them to confidently enjoy their evening walks and social gatherings.
- With careful monitoring and guidance, a senior was able to resume their beloved daily walks without the previously troublesome fatigue, improving their overall well-being and 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 Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians (Family Practice/OMT)
Here are answers to some common questions about Internal Medicine care with Dr. Ruben Valdes:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Dr. Valdes and his team are internists, meaning they are primary care doctors who specialize in treating adults. They are experts in the many health issues that can arise with aging, including managing chronic conditions and coordinating care with other specialists.
- Does Dr. Ruben Valdes have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Dr. Valdes and other internists are specifically trained in adult medicine, including the unique health needs of older adults. They have extensive experience managing common conditions in later life, such as heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Valdes and our team believe in a team approach to care, and we welcome the participation of family members and caregivers, with the patient's permission. Their involvement is valuable in ensuring clear communication and support for the best possible care.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Ruben Valdes?
- To prepare for your appointment with Dr. Valdes, 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?
- To request a prescription refill, please use our patient portal or contact your pharmacy directly. Please allow 2-3 business days for processing. If you have any questions, please call 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. Ruben Valdes help patients manage their blood pressure?
- Dr. Valdes helps manage blood pressure by prescribing medication when needed, but also by regularly monitoring blood pressure, providing lifestyle counseling on diet and exercise, and creating a personalized plan to help patients reach and maintain a healthy level.
- Does Dr. Ruben Valdes treat acute illnesses like colds or the flu?
- Dr. Valdes and our practice treat acute illnesses like colds and the flu. Please call our office as soon as you notice symptoms to determine the best course of action.
7519 Paula Dr
Tampa FL 33615
Phone: (813) 901-8585
Dr. Ruben Valdes, DO 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): 1790882801
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. Ruben Valdes 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.