How do I prep for a visit?
If you are coming for any complaint that involves the rectum or anus (bleeding, hemorrhoids, anal pain, rectal pain, constipation, left-sided abdominal pain, fecal incontinence, etc.), you will need to use an over-the-counter saline enema approximately one hour prior to arrival. If timing is an issue, there are bathrooms adjacent to the office where you can administer the enema before you register. Even though you are prepping with an enema, please eat as usual. There is no need to fast for the examination.
I think I have hemorrhoids. Will I be examined?
Yes. Any anal complaint needs to be evaluated and will require an enema prep and a rectal exam.
I have anal pain. Will I be examined?
You are being evaluated for an anal condition and will need to be examined. If an enema is too painful, we can attempt an exam without one, but we may not see enough and will need to bring you back for a second exam. We typically use a numbing gel to gently examine the area and try to make the examination as comfortable as possible.
Do I need a colonoscopy?
The most common reason for a colonoscopy is screening for polyps, but other conditions often need evaluation as well. The CCRH team will discuss your indications for a colonoscopy and, if appropriate, schedule and instruct you concerning the preparation for the procedure. Please refer to the section regarding colonoscopy for more information.
Do I have cancer?
While this is often the first thought a patient might have when a symptom (rectal bleeding, change in bowel habits, abdominal pain, etc.) is present, the vast majority of symptoms have an easily identifiable cause other than a malignancy. Rest assured we will go over all of your questions at the time of your visit.
How do I discuss my condition if I am embarrassed or afraid?
The most important factor in dealing with embarrassing issues is being comfortable discussing them with your doctor. We can’t expect you to walk in ready to tell us about symptoms you hide from your closest family and friends, but we do recognize that this starts with trust. As a patient at CCRH, you are in the care of people who understand this simple fact. We are specialists who have experienced every problem concerning the colon and rectum and will make you feel comfortable while identifying and treating your condition. We understand that trust takes time; therefore, we provide you with the time you need to ensure that we have earned your trust.
Do I need a referral?
The physicians at the Center for Colon & Rectal Health are specialists. Your insurance plan may require a referral which would be indicated on your insurance card. If a referral is needed, please contact your primary care physician. Arriving without a referral requires us to reschedule your appointment.
Is the Center for Colon & Rectal Health, Inc. (CCRH) in my insurance plan’s network?
Since there are a variety of insurance plans, we advise patients to call their Member Services telephone number, which appears on the back of their insurance card, to verify if CCRH is in their network. We provide potential patients with our corporate tax ID # (26-3998079) and NPI # (1831338466) which will assist the Member Services Representative in identifying our practice.
Am I responsible for deductibles and co-pays?
Yes. This is a contract that members have with their insurance companies. If patients are unsure of what their deductible and co-pay responsibilities are, they should contact their Member Services Representative for details. Patients are expected to pay their co-pay at the time of their visit.
Since I have a high deductible with my insurance plan, can I set up a payment plan for balances owed to CCRH?
CCRH accommodates our patients that carry high deductibles or high outstanding balances by giving them the option to set up a monthly payment plan that will fit into their budget.