The absolute best way to prevent and detect colorectal cancer is with a screening colonoscopy. We recommend that everyone be screened at the age of 50, earlier if there is a family or personal history of cancer, and at regular intervals after that. For African-Americans, screenings should begin at age 45.

While there are other tests being developed to detect colorectal cancers, only a screening colonoscopy can help you prevent cancer before it happens. Most colon cancers begin in benign colon polyps, or abnormal tissue growths. A benign polyp usually takes several years to become cancerous. During that time, there is a “window of opportunity” to find it and remove it before it turns cancerous. Any polyps found during a screening colonoscopy are removed and tested.

With removal of polyps, we can prevent colorectal cancers. When a cancer that is found early over ninety percent of cases can be treated and cured. We look forward to the day when colorectal cancer is no longer a life-threatening disease because individuals are taking steps toward prevention.

There is a pre-screening cleansing procedure to follow, but the actual screening procedure takes only about 15-30 minutes. With minor sedation, the procedure is actually painless.

Let’s work together to win the fight against colorectal cancer. Schedule your screening colonoscopy today.

In addition to the finest medical care, we know that cost and convenience also play a part in the quality of service you expect. We have that covered as well. Our ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) allow us to provide personalized care in a convenient, cost-effective way. All our ASCs are state licensed, Medicare-certified and accredited by the Accreditation Association of Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC).

Ambulatory care refers to medical care provided for patients who are not admitted overnight to a hospital. The popularity of ambulatory care has grown rapidly since the early 1980s, mainly because advances in technology have made many tests, procedures and surgeries formerly done in hospitals safe to do on an outpatient basis.

One of the major benefits to the patient is cost savings. A surgery or procedure performed in an ambulatory surgery center can cost an estimated 30 to 60 percent less than the same procedure performed in a hospital. In our state-of-the-art facilities, our board certified and specially trained physicians perform endoscopies, dilations, colonoscopies, removal of colon polyps, treatments for Barrett’s esophagus and many other endoscopic procedures.

If a procedure is needed that must be performed in a hospital, we have physicians on staff at local hospitals.

Convenience is another reason to choose an ambulatory care facility. Our three offices and ASCs are conveniently located to better serve our patients, are easy to get in and out of, and have plenty of parking. Additionally, our outpatient treatments offer the convenience of returning home after a surgery or procedure which makes the process easier on the whole family.

At Gastrointestinal Associates, our ambulatory surgery centers help us bring you the very best in health care. We provide medical excellence, convenience and cost-savings, getting you in and out and home again quickly.

We have also posted some news highlights on YouTube.

I am finding new media is opening up incredible ways to provide information that can help keep people well – and for others to share that information with people who need it.

When a symptom appears or when medical questions arise, many people now are checking the Internet first to see if the situation warrants a physician visit. The Internet can be a useful tool in helping to point you in the right direction and a little more comfortable than asking health-related questions over the phone.

However, keep in mind that anyone can put information on the Internet. The key is to make sure the information you are getting is from a reliable source.

Before you believe what you read online, check out the source. For information on gastrointestinal health – including colonoscopies, irritable bowels, gallbladder pain, reflux and so on – you can trust what the experts at Gastrointestinal Associates have to say.

Our Facebook page is filled with information about our doctors and from our doctors, so you can read about an issue and decide if it is time to make an appointment to see us in person. We also have a lot of great information to help you prevent gastrointestinal health issues.

As the main source of nutrition for your body, your gastrointestinal tract plays a vital role in your overall health and wellness. The physicians at GIA are experts in gastrointestinal health, with the knowledge and helpful information you need to keep feeling your best. For example, did you know a fiber deficiency is a leading cause of constipation which can lead to diverticulosis? Adding a little flavorless bran to your favorite foods can help you add fiber to your diet and prevent gastrointestinal problems.

For the latest, most reliable information on gastrointestinal health, turn to Gastrointestinal Associates. Check out our Facebook page or see our recent videos on YouTube with patient testimonials and news worthy information. It’s the best place to find health information from experts who know and care.