DR. ERIC M BALL M.D.
NPI 1275507485
Internal Medicine in Walla Walla, WA

Areas of Expertise

The following services and procedures, recently provided to Medicare patients, illustrate the range of care this provider offers. This list reflects the variety of services available to all patients visiting the practice and is based on 2022 Medicare dataset. In general, the more frequently a provider treats specific conditions or performs particular procedures, the more experienced they become in addressing similar patient needs. The provider has delivered many of the services listed below to Medicare patients. Please note that this list does not include services provided to patients who are not covered by Medicare.

Administration of influenza virus vaccine

The administration of the influenza virus vaccine, also known as the flu shot, is a simple procedure to protect against the flu. A healthcare provider injects a small dose of the vaccine into your arm. This stimulates your immune system to produce antibodies, which will help your body fight off the flu if exposed.

This service was performed 144 times for 142 patients

Administration of pneumococcal vaccine

The pneumococcal vaccine helps protect against pneumococcal bacteria, which can cause severe infections like pneumonia and meningitis. The vaccine is given as an injection, typically in the arm. It's recommended for infants, older adults, and those with certain health conditions.

This service was performed 21 times for 21 patients

Advance care planning, first 30 minutes

Advance care planning is a process where you discuss your healthcare preferences with your doctor. This conversation, lasting up to 30 minutes, helps ensure your wishes are respected if you're unable to communicate them in the future. It's about your care, your way.

This service was performed 29 times for 23 patients

Aspiration and/or injection of fluid from large joint

This procedure involves using a needle to remove (aspiration) or introduce (injection) fluid into a large joint like the knee or hip. It can help diagnose conditions, relieve discomfort, or deliver medication directly to the joint.

This service was performed 41 times for 25 patients

Aspiration and/or injection of fluid from medium joint

This procedure involves a needle being inserted into a medium-sized joint, such as a knee or shoulder, to remove (aspirate) excess fluid. Sometimes, medication may also be injected into the joint to reduce inflammation and pain.

This service was performed 26 times for 22 patients

Blood test, thyroid stimulating hormone (tsh)

A TSH blood test measures the level of thyroid stimulating hormone in your body. This hormone is produced by the pituitary gland and regulates how your thyroid works. It's a simple procedure where a small amount of blood is drawn from your arm for analysis.

This service was performed 456 times for 405 patients

Complete blood cell count (red cells, white blood cell, platelets), automated test

A complete blood cell count (CBC) is an automated test that measures different components of the blood, including red cells, white cells, and platelets. It helps assess overall health, detect disorders like anemia or infection, and monitor medical treatments.

This service was performed 530 times for 396 patients

Complete blood cell count (red cells, white blood cell, platelets), automated test and automated differential white blood cell count

A Complete Blood Cell Count is a common test that measures various components of the blood, including red cells (carry oxygen), white cells (fight infection), and platelets (help blood clot). An automated test ensures accuracy. The differential count provides detailed information about white cell types.

This service was performed 26 times for 17 patients

Creatinine level to test for kidney function or muscle injury

A creatinine level test measures the amount of creatinine in your blood. This substance is a waste product from normal muscle use. Higher levels can indicate possible kidney dysfunction or muscle injury. This test helps monitor kidney health.

This service was performed 85 times for 71 patients

Cyanocobalamin (vitamin b-12) level

A Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B-12) level test is a blood test that checks the amount of Vitamin B-12 in your body. This vitamin is vital for nerve function and the creation of red blood cells. Low or high levels could indicate a potential health issue.

This service was performed 27 times for 26 patients

Destruction of precancer skin growth, 1 growth

"Destruction of precancer skin growth" is a procedure that eliminates a single precancerous skin growth. This is done to prevent it from developing into skin cancer. The growth may be removed using various methods such as cryotherapy (freezing), laser therapy, or topical medications.

This service was performed 21 times for 19 patients

Destruction of skin growth, 1-14 growths

"Destruction of skin growth" refers to a procedure where 1-14 abnormal skin growths are removed. This is done using methods such as freezing, burning, or laser therapy. It helps prevent the growth from causing discomfort or turning into a more serious condition.

This service was performed 24 times for 24 patients

Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 10-19 minutes

This is a routine check-up for patients who have previously seen the doctor. During this 10-19 minute visit, the doctor will review your health status, discuss any concerns, and manage ongoing treatments or medications. It's a chance to ensure your health is on track.

This service was performed 37 times for 24 patients

Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 20-29 minutes

This is a routine visit for patients who have already been seen by the healthcare provider. During this approximately 20-29 minute appointment, your health status will be evaluated and any necessary treatments or tests will be discussed. It's a chance to address any health concerns you may have.

This service was performed 76 times for 56 patients

Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes

This is a routine check-up for patients who have previously visited our clinic. It involves a comprehensive review of your health and any ongoing treatments. The consultation lasts between 30-39 minutes, allowing enough time to discuss any concerns.

This service was performed 138 times for 114 patients

Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 40-54 minutes

This service involves a follow-up appointment for existing patients, lasting between 40 to 54 minutes. During this time, your healthcare provider will assess your current health status, discuss any changes or concerns, review your treatment plan, and answer any questions you may have.

This service was performed 1,013 times for 476 patients

Ferritin (blood protein) level

A Ferritin level test measures the amount of ferritin, a protein that stores iron, in your blood. It helps determine how much iron your body is storing. If levels are low, it may indicate iron deficiency, while high levels could signify conditions like iron overload.

This service was performed 74 times for 44 patients

Hemoglobin a1c level

Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) is a test that measures your average blood sugar level over the past 2-3 months. It's used to monitor how well diabetes is being controlled. High levels may indicate that your diabetes treatment plan needs adjustment.

This service was performed 250 times for 157 patients

Influenza vaccine split virus, preservative free

The Influenza Vaccine Split Virus, preservative-free, is a flu shot to protect against the influenza virus. It is made from parts of inactivated flu viruses and doesn't contain preservatives, reducing potential side effects. It helps your body develop immunity to the flu.

This service was performed 137 times for 135 patients

Infusion into a vein for therapy, prevention, or diagnosis, 1 hour or less

This is a procedure where a medical professional inserts a small tube into your vein to deliver medication, nutrients, or fluids directly into your bloodstream. This can be for treatment, prevention, or diagnosis. The process typically takes less than an hour.

This service was performed 36 times for 23 patients

Injection of drug or substance under skin or into muscle

This procedure involves administering medication directly under the skin or into a muscle. A small needle is used to inject the drug, allowing it to be absorbed quickly into the bloodstream. It's a common method for delivering a variety of medications.

This service was performed 82 times for 11 patients

Injection, triamcinolone acetonide, not otherwise specified, 10 mg

Triamcinolone acetonide is a medication used to reduce inflammation in the body. It's given as a 10 mg injection for conditions like allergies, arthritis, or skin problems. The injection helps to decrease swelling, redness, and itching.

This service was performed 356 times for 50 patients

Injection, zoledronic acid, 1 mg

Zoledronic acid is a medication given via injection to strengthen bones. It's often used in patients with osteoporosis or certain types of cancer. The injection helps reduce the risk of fractures and other bone complications.

This service was performed 85 times for 17 patients

Insertion of needle into vein for collection of blood sample

This procedure involves inserting a small needle into a vein, typically in your arm, to collect a blood sample. It's a quick and simple process to help diagnose or monitor health conditions. You may feel a small prick, but discomfort is minimal.

This service was performed 711 times for 434 patients

Manual urinalysis test with examination using microscope, automated

A manual urinalysis test with automated microscopic examination is a lab process that checks your urine for health indicators. It involves a machine scanning your sample to identify any abnormal elements, which can assist in diagnosing various conditions.

This service was performed 64 times for 55 patients

Office or other outpatient visit for the evaluation and management of established patient that may not require presence of healthcare professional

This service involves an outpatient visit for established patients who may not need direct interaction with a healthcare professional. It could include reviewing test results, monitoring existing conditions, or adjusting treatment plans. It's typically done remotely, ensuring your comfort and convenience.

This service was performed 37 times for 24 patients

Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, 20 valent (pcv20), for intramuscular use

The Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV20) is a shot given to protect against 20 types of bacteria that can cause serious infections like pneumonia and meningitis. It's administered through a muscle, usually in the arm. It's important for overall health.

This service was performed 13 times for 13 patients

Prolonged office or other outpatient evaluation and management service(s) beyond the maximum required time of the primary procedure which has been selected using total time on the date of the primary service; each additional 15 minutes by the physician or

This service refers to extended doctor visits where your healthcare provider spends additional time evaluating and managing your health beyond the primary procedure's required time. This includes each extra 15 minutes spent by the physician on the same day as the primary service.

This service was performed 217 times for 126 patients

Psa (prostate specific antigen) measurement, total

PSA measurement is a simple blood test that checks for a specific protein produced by your body. High levels could indicate a health issue that needs further investigation. It's often used to monitor general wellness and is part of routine health screening.

This service was performed 101 times for 94 patients

Red blood cell sedimentation rate, to detect inflammation, automated

The Red Blood Cell Sedimentation Rate is a test that helps detect inflammation in the body. It's automated, meaning a machine does the work. This test measures how fast red blood cells settle at the bottom of a tube in an hour. A faster rate may indicate inflammation.

This service was performed 32 times for 24 patients

Removal of impacted ear wax by washing

Impacted ear wax removal by washing, also known as ear irrigation, involves using a pressurized flow of water to break up and dislodge the ear wax. This safe procedure helps restore normal hearing and relieve discomfort caused by the blockage.

This service was performed 44 times for 42 patients

Routine electrocardiogram (ecg) using at least 12 leads with interpretation and report

An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a non-invasive test that records your heart's electrical activity. Using 12 leads attached to your body, it captures data to help identify heart conditions. A doctor interprets the results and provides a report.

This service was performed 19 times for 19 patients

Testosterone (hormone) level, total

A total testosterone level test measures the amount of a key hormone in your body. This hormone influences various body functions such as muscle mass, energy levels, and mood. The test involves a simple blood draw, and results help monitor health conditions.

This service was performed 20 times for 19 patients

Transitional care management services for problem of high complexity

Transitional care management services are designed to ensure a smooth transition from a hospital to home or another care setting for patients with complex health issues. These services include medication management, patient education, and coordination with healthcare providers.

This service was performed 17 times for 14 patients

Ultrasound measurement of bladder capacity after voiding

Ultrasound measurement of bladder capacity after voiding is a non-invasive test that uses sound waves to create images of your bladder. It's done after you've emptied your bladder to see if there's any leftover urine, which can help diagnose certain conditions.

This service was performed 23 times for 22 patients

Urine microalbumin (protein) level

The urine microalbumin level test measures the amount of a protein called albumin in your urine. This test helps to detect early signs of kidney damage. High levels of albumin may suggest your kidneys aren't functioning properly. It's a simple, non-invasive test that involves providing a urine sample.

This service was performed 84 times for 71 patients

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