Laura Ballew, PA-C

About Laura Ballew, PA-C

Laura Ballew, PA-C is a Family Medicine Physician Assistant practicing at Halifax Health A€“ Primary Care, New Smyrna Beach in New Smyrna Beach, FL. She is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered care, registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). Dr. Laura PA-C provides comprehensive, continuous healthcare for individuals and families of all ages, addressing a wide range of health concerns. She is a board-certified physician assistant, having completed rigorous medical training from recognized institutions, including her Master of Science Degree in Physician Assistant Studies at the Medical University of South Carolina. Currently, Dr. Laura PA-C is not accepting new patients, but potential patients can call (386) 425-6963 to inquire about waitlists or future openings.

Dr. Laura PA-C's commitment to patient care is deeply rooted in her experience. With over 19 years of experience at New Smyrna Beach Family Practice, she has developed a strong understanding of the needs of her patients, particularly in women's health and psychiatry. Dr. Laura PA-C is passionate about fostering lasting relationships with patients while focusing on their healthcare goals and preventive medicine. She enjoys working collaboratively with patients and their families, striving to provide the best possible care tailored to their unique circumstances. Dr. Laura PA-C, a resident of New Smyrna Beach, enjoys spending time with her husband and two young boys, as well as outdoor activities like exercising, boating, and camping. The care philosophy of the Halifax Health team is to provide exceptional service, through every encounter, every day to everyone, aligning with the mission of being a community healthcare leader through exceptional talent and superior patient-centered services. Dr. Laura PA-C provides consultations primarily in English.

Family Medicine Conditions Addressed

Dr. Laura PA-C addresses a wide range of Family Medicine health concerns, including:

• Hypertension: If you have hypertension, your blood pressure is consistently above the healthy range, putting extra strain on your blood vessels and organs.
• Injuries: Injuries may result from falls, sports, traffic accidents, or other traumatic events.
• Osteoporosis: It's a disease that thins and weakens your bones over time, leading to an increased risk of fractures.
• Diabetes: Diabetes means your blood sugar is too high, which can damage your organs over time if not managed.
• Depressive Disorders: Feeling persistently down, losing interest in activities you once enjoyed, and experiencing changes in sleep or appetite could be signs of a depressive disorder.
• Allergies: Having allergies means your immune system overreacts to usually harmless substances, causing symptoms like sneezing, itching, or rash.
• High Cholesterol: Having high cholesterol increases your chances of developing heart disease and stroke because it can clog your arteries.
• Obesity: Obesity is having excess body fat that increases the risk of health problems.
• Anxiety: Anxiety disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterized by persistent and excessive worry, fear, or unease.
• Pneumonia: Pneumonia is a lung infection that can cause coughing, fever, and shortness of breath.
• Asthma: Asthma is characterized by recurring episodes of wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath.
• Depression: Depression is a common mood disorder that can affect your thoughts, feelings, and behavior.

Please note: This list highlights some common health concerns that Dr. Laura PA-C addresses and is for informational purposes only; it does not constitute medical advice. The range of conditions a Family Medicine manages is broad, and this list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive understanding of how she can assist with your Patient's specific health needs or to discuss any particular symptoms, it's always best to schedule a consultation. Accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans are developed based on individual patient evaluations.

Family Medicine Services Provided

Dr. Laura PA-C offers a range of services to support your Patient's health and well-being, such as:

• Abscess Incision and Drainage: An abscess is a collection of pus; incision and drainage is a procedure to surgically remove this pus.
• Breast Exam: Your doctor will visually inspect and manually palpate your breasts to assess their overall health and identify any potential concerns.
• Electrocardiogram (EKG): An electrocardiogram (EKG) is a simple test that measures the electrical activity of your heart.
• Gynecologic Cancer Screening: Depending on your age and risk factors, your doctor will recommend the appropriate gynecologic cancer screenings, such as Pap smears and pelvic exams.
• Immunization: Getting immunized helps build your body's defense against infections.
• Pap Smear: Pap smears are an important part of preventative care for women's health, helping detect cervical cancer early.
• Pelvic Exams: A pelvic exam is a routine part of women's healthcare, helping to detect abnormalities early.
• Physical Examination: A physical examination helps your doctor identify potential health problems and monitor your overall well-being.
• Urinalysis: This test analyzes your urine sample to detect substances or cells that might indicate a medical condition.
• Vaccination: Vaccination is the process of giving someone a vaccine to protect them from infectious diseases.
• Well Baby Care: Through well baby visits, your pediatrician can track your baby's progress and provide personalized care.
• Wellness Examination: This visit focuses on your current health status, preventative measures, and screenings tailored to your age and risk factors.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Laura PA-C. Service availability can change and not all services listed may be appropriate or offered to every patient. The scope of services provided by a Family Medicine can vary. For a comprehensive understanding of all available services or to discuss your Patient's specific healthcare needs, it's always best to schedule a consultation. Some specialized procedures or advanced diagnostic tests may require referral to a subspecialist.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Family Medicine in Florida and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The Florida Board of Medicine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. Laura PA-C:

What is a Family Medicine doctor?

A family medicine doctor, like Dr. Laura PA-C, is a primary care physician who provides comprehensive care for individuals and families of all ages, from newborns to seniors. They manage a wide range of health concerns, focusing on wellness, disease prevention, and coordinating care with specialists when needed.

What should I expect during my first visit with Dr. Laura PA-C?

Your first visit with Dr. Laura PA-C will include a review of your personal and family medical history, a physical exam, and a discussion of your health goals. Please bring a list of all medications, including supplements, and any relevant past medical records.

Does Dr. Laura PA-C accept my insurance?

Insurance acceptance can vary. Please call our office directly with your insurance information to confirm coverage before your appointment.

How does Dr. Laura PA-C handle mental health concerns like anxiety or depression?

Dr. Laura PA-C understands that mental health is a vital part of overall well-being. She can diagnose and manage conditions like anxiety and depression, potentially through lifestyle counseling, medication, or referrals to specialists when necessary.

Does Dr. Laura PA-C provide women's health services?

Dr. Laura PA-C provides a range of women's health services, including well-woman exams, Pap smears, and contraceptive counseling. Management of menopause symptoms is also addressed. In some cases, a referral to a gynecologist may be recommended for more specialized care.

What men's health services does Dr. Laura PA-C offer?

Dr. Laura PA-C and our team offer comprehensive men's health services, including prostate health screenings, management of low testosterone, and addressing concerns like erectile dysfunction, all within a supportive and personalized wellness plan.

Can I see Dr. Laura PA-C for acute illnesses like the flu or a UTI?

Yes, Dr. Laura PA-C and our team are happy to see you for acute illnesses like the flu or a UTI. We treat a wide range of common conditions, including colds, infections, and minor injuries. Please call our office to schedule an appointment.

Does Dr. Laura PA-C perform joint injections for pain?

Dr. Laura PA-C and our team can perform therapeutic joint injections, such as corticosteroid shots, to help reduce inflammation and pain in joints like knees and shoulders. This can be an effective treatment option for conditions like arthritis and bursitis.