Services
The ANMC Gastroenterology Clinic specializes in providing a full range of gastroenterology services including:
- Esophageal 24-hour pH probe testing
- Esophageal manometry study
- Esophageal dilatation for strictures
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy
- Diagnostic colonoscopy and colon biopsy
- Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD)
- Capsular endoscopy (Pill-cam)
How do I make an appointment?
To make an appointment, you must first receive a referral from your primary care provider or another specialty clinic.
If you have any questions, please contact our clinic and we can work with you and your provider on the appropriate referral.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will it take me to be seen?
Once a complete referral is received from your primary care provider, you’ll be called to schedule an initial visit with Gastroenterology within two weeks.
Is my first visit to set me up for a surgery?
No, even though your primary care provider may feel you need a procedure, the gastroenterologist needs to conduct a thorough exam and confirm a procedure is needed. The initial visit consists of lab and image reviews and physical exam. After the initial visit, you will be scheduled for a procedure if warranted.
Do I need an escort for my visit?
If you are scheduled for a procedure, we will request an escort come with you as you will be under sedation or general anesthesia for your procedure. We will discuss this with you at the time we are scheduling your appointments.
Where is the Gastroenterology Clinic located?
We are on the third floor of the Healthy Communities Building within the Internal Medicine Clinic, located at 3900 Ambassador Drive.
I have abdominal pain, will the gastroenterologist provide me with pain medications?
The gastroenterologist will assess and evaluate what is causing your abdominal pain. Often, pain medications will not aid in the discovery of the cause. The gastroenterologist may prescribe medications to relieve discomfort, but this does not include narcotic pain medications. If you have chronic pain this should be further discussed with and treated by your primary care provider.
Why are new labs needed before the visit?
Even if you have recently had labs drawn, our gastroenterologist may need updated labs or additional labs beyond what was ordered by other providers. Labs are often used to assess if a procedure is recommended. It is important to complete all labs prior to the clinic visit with the gastroenterologist so they will have all information needed to properly assess your condition.
I have been offered a procedure, do I really need stop smoking before the procedure?
Prior to procedures, patients will need to abstain from tobacco products for at least 24 hours in order to promote healing during recovery.
Why do I need to follow a clear liquid diet for my procedure?
A clear liquid diet is often used before gastrointestinal tract procedures and tests that require the gastroenterologist to look inside your gastrointestinal (GI) tract to get a clear view of the tissues and take samples for biopsies if needed.
Will I have pain after my procedure?
It is common to have mild discomfort after a GI procedure, such as a sore throat. Severe pain after a procedure is rare and may require immediate medical attention.
How long until I can return to work after my procedure?
Typically, you will be able to return to your normal work routine the day after your procedure. You may receive specific instructions regarding activity and work restriction depending on your procedure during your preoperative visit.
Patient Resources
American Gastroenterological Association: http://www.gastro.org/
Clinic Hours and Contact Information
Hours: 8 a.m.- 4:30 p.m., Monday-Friday
Phone: 907-729-2503
Location: ANTHC Healthy Communities Building
3900 Ambassador Drive, third floor
