When Tests Are Ordered
To protect your digestive health, you’ll have to have some tests done. There’s no way around it. Even if your physician is 99.9 percent sure of what’s ailing you, you will still want to rule other problems out. Plus, some tests need to be done annually, whether because of your age, lifestyle, or other risk factors for certain diseases. Whether it’s a quick physical exam or blood test, or more extensive diagnostic tests, here are the basics you need to know.
Tests can be done in a hospital, special outpatient surgical center, or a physician’s office. You will be asked to sign a form that verifies that you consent to having the procedure and that you understand what is involved.
Make sure you understand the answers to these questions:
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Will a board-certified gastroenterologist (specialist in diseases of the GI tract) be performing my diagnostic test?
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If not board certified, has my doctor completed a fellowship program or received special training in gastroenterology?
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About how many of these procedures has this doctor performed? About how many does the doctor perform each month?
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How should I prepare for this diagnostic test?
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How long will the test take?
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Will I be able to drive myself home immediately following the test?
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Are there any side effects or complications associated with this diagnostic test?
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If my test detects an abnormality, what will be the course of action? May abnormal tissue be removed during the procedure?
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How long will it take to get the results of the test? Should I call for the results, or will someone contact me?
Telephone number to call:__________________________
When to call:_____________________ Date: Time:_____________________
