Frequently Asked Questions

What is GI Alliance?

In November of 2019, Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology joined GI Alliance. This partnership ensures that we, as physicians, can continue our focused efforts of providing the highest quality of personalized care to our patients. GI Alliance is the leading, Patient-Focused, Physician-Led Gastroenterology Practice serving patients throughout the United States. Learn more about GI Alliance here.

What does a gastroenterologist do?

Gastroenterology is the branch of medicine dedicated to the study, diagnosis, and treatment of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Your GI tract contains significant gastric organs, like your small intestine, esophagus, stomach, pancreas, gallbladder, colon, and liver.

How can I pay my bill online?

You can pay your bill from Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology online here.

How can I access my patient records?

You can access your records and communicate directly with your physician’s office online, 24/7 via the Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology Patient Portal.

Can I schedule an appointment online?

Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology enables patients to “Request” an appointment online via the “request an appointment” form on our provider or location pages. Once your request is received, a member of our scheduling team will contact you personally to coordinate your appointment.

What insurances do you take?

We accept most insurances. Visit our Insurance page or call one of our offices to confirm we accept yours. You can reach us at 317-865-2955.

Why is a colon cancer screening so important?

A colon cancer screening is the process of looking for polyps and cancerous growths on the inner wall of the colon and rectum when no gastrointestinal symptoms of disease are present. Click here to learn more about colon cancer screenings.

How dangerous is colon cancer?

Colon cancer has one of the highest death counts among patients with cancer in the US. It is estimated that over 52,000 deaths from this disease will occur in the United States each year.

Is colon cancer preventable?

Yes, a colonoscopy may detect polyps (small growths on the lining of the colon). Your gastroenterologist will remove these polyps during the colonoscopy. Removal of polyps will result in a major reduction in the likelihood of developing colorectal cancer in the future.

What is a Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is an endoscopic procedure which allows the physician to examine the lining of the colon using a long flexible tube with a camera on the end of it. To learn more, click here.

What should I do to prepare for a colonoscopy?

Your gastroenterologist and their staff will provide you with specific instructions for your procedure. It is very important that you follow the instructions given to you by the gastroenterologists and not the instructions that come with your prep kit. If you lose your instructions, you can find them here or contact your gastroenterologist.

Where can I find pre-procedure/colonoscopy prep instructions?

To view the Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology prep instructions, click here.

Will a colonoscopy require me to stay overnight?

No! A colonoscopy is an outpatient procedure.

What are the possible complications of a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is generally safe. One possible complication is perforation, or tear, through the bowel wall that could require surgery. Bleeding might occur, but it’s usually minor and can be controlled through the colonoscope. Some patients may have complications or a reaction to the sedatives. Contact your doctor if you have severe abdominal pain, fever, chills, or rectal bleeding.

How will I get my colonoscopy results?

Your gastroenterologists will discuss the initial procedure findings after the procedure before you leave. Tests may be ordered, based on the procedure findings. If several tests are ordered, we like to review all results together to formulate a complete plan of care. Pathology results, typically, are returned in less than a week.

What happens after a GI procedure?

You will be monitored until most of the sedatives have worn off and your doctor has explained your exam results. You might have cramping or bloating because of the air introduced into the colon during the examination. You may still be groggy from the sedative, so you will need someone there with you and to drive you home. You should be able to eat normally, but your gastroenterologist may restrict your diet and activities for a short period of time. You should not return to work, drive or operate heavy equipment for the remainder of the day.

What is the difference between IBD and IBS?

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) are two distinct gastrointestinal disorders, though the differences between the two can be confusing. While they have some similar symptoms, IBS and IBD are not the same conditions, and they require very different treatments. It is essential to get an accurate diagnosis so that you can properly manage your condition.