Dr. Thomas Ball, MD is a Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive Internal Medicine care for older adults at his clinic in Fort Myers, 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. Dr. Ball is currently welcoming new patients, and you can schedule an appointment by calling (239) 343-8220.
Dr. Thomas Ball, MD is an internist in Fort Myers, FL and has over 35 years of experience in the medical field. With over 35 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 Atlanta College Of Physicians & Surgeons in 1989. Following medical school, he undertook residency training in Internal Medicine at Edward W Sparrow Hospital|Mi State University College Human Med, specializing in the comprehensive medical care of primarily older adults (65 and older), but also including younger adults with complex medical needs. He is Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. He is affiliated with medical facilities such as Cape Coral Hospital and Lee Memorial Hospital. He is accepting new patients. Dr. Ball provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Thomas Ball is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Ball is a dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care focused on your overall well-being and independence. He meticulously coordinates complex care, effectively manages chronic conditions, and prioritizes understanding your personal goals and preferences to create a personalized plan that maximizes your comfort and independence as you age.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Thomas Ball can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Aetna
- Aetna HMO (HMO)
- AvMed
- Blue Card High Performance Network HPN (HPN)
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- BlueCard PPO (PPO)
- BlueCare HMO (HMO)
- BlueOptions
- BlueSelect
- CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
- Choice
- Choice Care Network PPO (PPO)
- Choice Care PPO (PPO)
- Choice Large Group POS (POS)
- Choice Plus POS (POS)
- Choice Plus POS II (POS II)
- Cigna
- Cigna HMO (HMO)
- Cigna PPO (PPO)
- Elect Choice (Open Access) EPO (EPO)
- First Health
- First Health (Coventry Health Care) PPO (PPO)
- Florida Blue
- HealthyBlue Advantage
- Humana
- LocalPlus
- Managed Choice (Open Access) POS (POS)
- National POS (POS)
- Navigate HMO (HMO)
- Navigate Plus POS (POS)
- Nexus Open Access
- Open Access Plus
- Open Choice PPO (PPO)
- Options PPO (PPO)
- Premier Care Network Plus - Innovation Health
- SimplyBlue
- Small Group Elect HMO (HMO)
- UnitedHealthCare
- myBlue
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Thomas Ball 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:
- Blood in Urine (Hematuria): If you see blood in your urine, don't worry—your doctor can determine the cause through tests and recommend the right approach to help you feel better and stay independent.
- Bursitis: Bursitis, a common source of joint pain, is caused by inflammation of the bursae. Working with your doctor, you can find a treatment plan that will ease your discomfort and allow you to continue enjoying your favorite activities.
- Overweight: Overweight is when your body mass index (BMI) is higher than recommended, potentially putting you at risk for various health complications, however, with the help of your doctor, a gradual weight loss plan tailored to your needs can reduce those risks and promote better health.
- Hypokalemia: Having low potassium levels, or hypokalemia, can impact your daily life, causing fatigue and muscle weakness. With the right approach, including diet modifications and medication if needed, you can restore your potassium levels and enhance your quality of life.
- Migraine: A migraine is a type of headache that can be intensely painful and debilitating, but with proper medical care, including medication and lifestyle changes, you can reduce the frequency and severity of attacks.
- Radiculopathy: Radiculopathy involves irritation or compression of a nerve in the spine, commonly causing pain radiating down the arm or leg, affecting your ability to do activities; effective management strategies can improve your quality of life.
- Limb Pain: Experiencing pain in your arms or legs? It's important to discuss this with your doctor to determine the cause and find the right treatment to improve your comfort and daily life.
- Menstrual Disorders: Menstrual disorders refer to problems with a woman's menstrual cycle, such as irregular bleeding or painful periods, which can be managed with medication or other treatments to improve comfort and overall well-being.
- Leukocytopenia: Leukocytopenia means your body has fewer infection-fighting white blood cells than usual; your doctor can work with you to identify the cause and develop a plan to minimize your risk of getting sick.
- Bronchiectasis: In bronchiectasis, the tubes in your lungs become damaged and inflamed, causing persistent coughing and increased risk of lung infections; but don't worry, a proactive approach with medication, therapies, and lifestyle adjustments can help control symptoms and enable you to enjoy daily activities.
- Hyperkalemia: Hyperkalemia, or high potassium levels, can be addressed through medication and a modified diet, helping you avoid complications and maintain your overall well-being.
- Peripheral Autonomic Neuropathy: Peripheral autonomic neuropathy is a condition affecting the nerves that control automatic bodily functions like blood pressure, heart rate, and digestion, often leading to symptoms like dizziness or digestive issues, but with proper management, such as medication and lifestyle changes, seniors can maintain a good 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. Thomas Ball offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): This simple blood test helps assess your blood's acid-base balance, crucial for managing conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
- Care Coordination for Complex Conditions and Procedures: Care coordination helps seniors with multiple health issues manage their conditions effectively by connecting them with the right specialists and resources.
- Chronic Care Management: This service provides ongoing support for seniors dealing with long-term illnesses, helping them track their health, manage medications, and prevent complications.
- Diabetes Counseling: Diabetes counseling supports you in making informed decisions about your diabetes care, including medication choices and lifestyle changes.
- 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.
- Human Papillomavirus DNA Testing: To ensure your well-being, HPV DNA testing can be incorporated into your routine health screenings, helping your doctor monitor your health and detect any potential issues related to HPV.
- Immunization Administration: Getting vaccinated helps manage the risk of serious illnesses, such as influenza and pneumonia, common among older adults, thereby improving their overall well-being.
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. Thomas Ball 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:
- Concerned about blood in her urine, a senior felt reassured by the thorough testing and personalized treatment plan. The relief allowed her to resume her favorite hobby of gardening without worry.
- With a tailored treatment plan, a senior was able to resume her beloved daily walks without the nagging pain of bursitis, improving her overall well-being and enjoyment of life.
- With a gradual weight loss plan tailored to her needs, a senior woman found she could climb the stairs to her apartment without feeling winded, and regained her confidence in her home environment.
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)
Here are answers to some common questions about Internal Medicine care with Dr. Thomas Ball:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Dr. Ball's practice focuses on the unique health needs of older adults. Internists are primary care doctors specializing in adult medicine, making them experts in the complex health issues that often arise with age. They manage chronic diseases and coordinate care with other specialists to provide comprehensive, high-quality care.
- Does Dr. Thomas Ball have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Dr. Ball and other internists are specifically trained in adult medicine, including the unique health needs of older adults. They have extensive experience managing conditions common in later life, such as heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Ball and our practice 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 invaluable for clear communication and providing the best support for your loved one.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Thomas Ball?
- 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 calling your pharmacy directly. Please allow 2-3 business days for requests to be processed.
- 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 do you coordinate care with specialists like cardiologists or oncologists?
- Dr. Ball's practice coordinates care seamlessly with specialists like cardiologists and oncologists. We handle referrals, share all relevant medical information, and synthesize recommendations into a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.
- Does Dr. Thomas Ball treat acute illnesses like colds or the flu?
- Dr. Ball and our practice treat acute illnesses like colds and the flu. Please call the office at the first sign of symptoms to determine the best course of action for you.
1569 Matthew Dr
Fort Myers FL 33907
Phone: (239) 343-8220
Dr. Thomas Ball, 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): 1679596795
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. Thomas Ball 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.