FAQs

AZ Gastro Care offers a comprehensive range of services in gastroenterology, including diagnostic testing, advanced endoscopic procedures, treatment for digestive diseases, and liver disease management, including liver transplantation. We also offer specialized infusion services to support your overall wellness. Our goal is to make your healthcare experience as comfortable and effective as possible.

Scheduling an appointment is easy! You can book an appointment by calling our office or completing an online appointment request form. We work hard to accommodate all patients as quickly as possible, offering flexible appointment times at our clinics in Mesa, Chandler, and Phoenix.

Please bring the following to your first appointment:

• A valid photo ID
• Your insurance card
• A list of any current medications
• Any relevant medical records or recent test results

Preparation for a gastroenterology procedure will depend on the type of procedure you are having. We provide specific preparation instructions, which can be found by contacting our office or visiting our website for more details.

A Good Faith Estimate provides an estimate of the expected charges for medical services, including tests, medications, and procedures. This estimate is required for patients who are uninsured or not using insurance, and it must be provided in writing at least one business day before the service. If your final bill exceeds the estimate by $400 or more, you have the right to dispute the charges.

Yes! You can request a Good Faith Estimate for any upcoming treatments or services, regardless of whether or not you have insurance. This can help you understand your potential out-of-pocket costs.

In the case of a medical emergency, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. For urgent but non-emergency concerns, contact our office as soon as possible to schedule an appointment.

A colonoscopy is a procedure used to examine the inside of the colon and rectum for abnormalities, such as polyps, cancer, or ulcers. It is recommended as a routine screening for colorectal cancer, starting at age 45 or earlier if you have a family history or other risk factors.

To prepare for a colonoscopy, you will need to follow a specific diet the day before the procedure and take a laxative solution to cleanse your colon. Detailed instructions will be provided to you ahead of time.

An endoscopy allows your doctor to view the upper gastrointestinal tract, including the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. It is often used to diagnose conditions such as GERD, ulcers, and celiac disease, or to investigate symptoms like nausea, abdominal pain, or difficulty swallowing.

You can usually return home the same day after an endoscopy or colonoscopy, but you will need someone to drive you as you will be sedated for the procedure. Rest for the remainder of the day is recommended to recover.

The frequency of colonoscopy depends on your individual risk factors. For those with normal results and no other risk factors, a colonoscopy every 10 years is recommended. If you have polyps or a family history of colorectal cancer, more frequent screenings may be necessary.

Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a specialized procedure used to study the bile ducts, pancreas, and liver. It can help diagnose and treat conditions such as blockages, gallstones, and certain types of cancers.

Yes, dietary changes can play a significant role in managing symptoms after gastroenterology procedures. For example, patients with GERD or ulcers may benefit from avoiding spicy foods, caffeine, and high-fat meals. Your gastroenterologist will provide tailored dietary recommendations based on your condition.

You should seek medical attention if your abdominal pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by symptoms such as fever, vomiting, jaundice, or changes in bowel movements. Also, if the pain interferes with your daily life or is accompanied by unexplained weight loss, see a doctor promptly.

Liver transplantation is considered for patients with end-stage liver disease, severe liver failure, or certain liver cancers that cannot be managed by other treatments. A thorough evaluation will be conducted to determine if you are a suitable candidate for a transplant.