Dr. Ira Shafran is a Gastroenterology specialist dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults (65 and over) at his clinic in Winter Park, 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. With over 50 years of dedicated experience in Gastroenterological care, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. He earned his medical degree from Ohio State University College Of Medicine in 1974 and completed his internship and fellowship training at Ohio State University Hospital, solidifying his expertise. Dr. Shafran is currently welcoming new patients and you can schedule an appointment by calling (407) 629-8121. He offers consultations in Spanish.
Dr. Shafran's commitment to senior health extends beyond his clinical practice. He is a Board Certified Gastroenterologist practicing in the Orlando area since 1979, with extensive training and experience in the field. Dr. Shafran recognizes the unique needs of older adults and strives to provide personalized care that addresses not only the medical issues but also the emotional and social well-being of his patients. He is recognized as a leader in the field, specializing in the treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease, and has been involved in groundbreaking research, producing numerous publications and becoming internationally renowned for his expertise. The Shafran Gastroenterology Center, where Dr. Shafran practices, takes great pride in providing high-quality care in a warm and friendly environment, tailoring treatment to meet each patient's specific needs.
We are confident that Dr. Shafran's deep understanding of the complexities of senior health, combined with his extensive experience and dedication to patient well-being, makes him a valuable partner in your loved one's health journey. He is on the forefront of treatment for Crohn's & Colitis, and has participated in most all the pivotal Trials for IBD Biologic & Natural therapies. The Shafran Gastroenterology Center is recognized by the AGA as a "Center-of-Excellence" in the treatment of IBD, first in FL to receive the "Bridges-to-Excellence" Award designation. As an active member of the medical community, Dr. Shafran is frequently seen on TV, lectures locally, nationally, and internationally, and has been featured in various publications.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Ira Shafran is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Ira Shafran is a compassionate gastroenterologist dedicated to providing comprehensive and personalized care for seniors. He expertly manages complex digestive conditions, working collaboratively with primary care physicians and other specialists to ensure the best possible outcomes. His approach prioritizes understanding each patient's individual needs and goals, fostering a supportive environment that promotes comfort and independence.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Ira Shafran can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Cigna
Humana
Medicare
Southern Health Services (Coventry Health Care)
Tricare
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Blue Card PPO
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- United Healthcare
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Ira Shafran 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:
- Gastritis: Dealing with persistent stomach pain or indigestion? Gastritis could be the culprit. Fortunately, it's often manageable with medication and changes to your diet, allowing you to maintain your independence and enjoy your meals.
- Vomiting Disorders: Vomiting can be a distressing symptom for seniors, but understanding its cause and receiving appropriate treatment can significantly improve comfort and overall well-being.
- Anemia: If you're experiencing persistent fatigue, shortness of breath, or dizziness, it could be a sign of anemia. Fortunately, with your doctor's help, it's often easily treatable, restoring your energy levels and helping you maintain your independence.
- Colon Disorders: Problems with your colon, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or colon cancer, can cause discomfort, but many effective treatments are available to help you manage symptoms and maintain your independence.
- Esophageal Achalasia and Cardiospasm: Esophageal achalasia and cardiospasm are conditions where the muscle at the bottom of your esophagus doesn't relax properly, making it hard to swallow and potentially leading to discomfort, but treatments like medication or surgery can ease symptoms and improve eating.
- Gastroparesis: Slow digestion due to gastroparesis can be challenging, affecting your appetite and well-being, however, with appropriate management, including medication and lifestyle adjustments, you can regain a better quality of life.
- Constipation: Managing constipation involves simple changes like increasing fiber intake, drinking more water, and regular exercise to improve bowel regularity and ease discomfort.
- Pouchitis: Pouchitis is a complication that can occur after surgery to create an internal pouch for bowel function. While it can cause unpleasant symptoms, medication and dietary changes can often effectively manage the condition.
- Esophagitis: Esophagitis is a condition where the food tube becomes inflamed, leading to pain and discomfort. Fortunately, there are many treatments available that can help reduce the inflammation and improve your quality of life.
- Benign Neoplasm of the Digestive System: A non-cancerous tumor (benign neoplasm) in your digestive system might need occasional check-ups to keep track of its size and growth, giving you peace of mind.
- Biliary Atresia: If you're caring for someone with a history of biliary atresia, understanding their specific needs and working closely with their medical team can ensure appropriate monitoring and support for optimal long-term health.
- Congenital Achalasia: Congenital achalasia is a lifelong condition where the swallowing mechanism is impaired from birth due to an issue with the esophagus muscles. However, appropriate intervention, potentially including procedures or medications, can ease swallowing difficulties.
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. Ira Shafran offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Endoscopy: Endoscopy helps doctors assess swallowing difficulties and identify potential causes, improving your quality of life and making mealtimes easier.
- Colonoscopy With Polypectomy: This procedure combines a visual inspection of your colon with the removal of any polyps found, acting as a preventative measure against colorectal cancer as part of your proactive senior care.
- Screening Colonoscopy: A screening colonoscopy is a vital procedure that helps detect colon polyps and early signs of colon cancer, allowing for timely treatment and improved outcomes.
- Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: To maintain optimal digestive health, a flexible sigmoidoscopy provides valuable insights into the lower bowel, allowing for timely intervention and management of any abnormalities discovered.
- Capsule Endoscopy: Capsule endoscopy provides doctors with detailed images of the small intestine, allowing for a more precise diagnosis and better management of various digestive disorders in elderly patients.
- Colon Cancer Screening: Colon cancer screening helps find colon polyps or cancer early, when treatment is most effective, giving seniors a better chance at a long and healthy life.
- Wireless pH Testing: By providing detailed information about your esophageal acid exposure, wireless pH testing helps improve your quality of life by better managing GERD symptoms.
- Instrumental Diagnostic Evaluation for Dysphagia: Instrumental diagnostic evaluation for dysphagia helps doctors identify the underlying causes of swallowing problems in seniors, allowing for effective intervention and prevention of complications.
- Duodenal Polypectomy: This procedure helps diagnose and manage duodenal polyps, which might otherwise lead to bleeding or other digestive problems, improving your overall well-being.
- Colorectal Cancer Screening: By participating in colorectal cancer screening, seniors can proactively manage their risk of developing this disease and make informed decisions about their health.
- Gallbladder Scan: As part of your overall health assessment, a gallbladder scan can reveal if there are any blockages or inflammation in your gallbladder, leading to better care planning.
- pH Probe: To create a comprehensive care plan for your digestive health, a pH probe provides valuable data on the acid levels in your esophagus.
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. Ira Shafran 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 the guidance of a gastroenterologist, a senior couple found relief from persistent stomach pain, allowing them to enjoy their favorite restaurant meals again without discomfort.
- A senior, plagued by persistent vomiting, found significant relief through a tailored treatment plan, allowing them to enjoy meals and social gatherings with renewed comfort and confidence.
- Feeling less fatigued and more energetic, a senior was able to resume their beloved weekly bridge club games, enjoying the social connection and stimulating activities.
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)
Here are answers to some common questions about Gastroenterological care with Dr. Ira Shafran:
- What is a Gastroenterologist?
- Dr. Shafran and our practice specialize in the health of the entire digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, intestines, colon, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. We diagnose, treat, and prevent a wide range of digestive diseases to help seniors maintain comfort and well-being.
- 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, which is common in seniors. Dr. Shafran can find and remove small growths called polyps before they become cancerous, making it a vital proactive step for long-term health and peace of mind.
- What can I expect during my first consultation with Dr. Ira Shafran?
- Your first consultation with Dr. Shafran will be a comprehensive conversation about your digestive health. We'll review your symptoms, diet, medications, and health history. This thorough evaluation is the first step in 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 in older adults. Many cases can be effectively managed with dietary changes and at-home care. For persistent discomfort, Dr. Shafran offers minimally invasive in-office procedures like banding, which are quick, effective, and require minimal recovery time.
- I have trouble swallowing sometimes. Is that a GI problem?
- Yes, difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) is a very important gastrointestinal (GI) symptom. Dr. Shafran can perform evaluations, such as an upper endoscopy (EGD), to investigate the cause, which could range from reflux to other conditions of the esophagus. The goal is to ensure you can eat safely and comfortably.
- 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. Shafran evaluate the cause. He can determine the best course of action, which may include lifestyle changes, medication, or other treatments to effectively manage your symptoms and prevent potential problems.
- 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. Shafran works to find the safest and most effective therapies to ensure the best possible quality of life.
- Is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) a serious disease?
- No, IBS is not a serious disease that damages the intestine or increases cancer risk. Dr. Shafran can help identify your triggers and create a personalized plan to manage your symptoms with diet, lifestyle changes, and, if needed, medication.
701 W Morse Blvd
Winter Park FL 32789
Phone: (407) 629-8121
Dr. Ira Shafran 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): 1336124296
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. Ira Shafran 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.