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GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)

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Gastroesophageal reflux disease, referred to as GERD, is a condition that causes stomach acid to flow back through the esophagus, which is the tube that connects the mouth and the stomach. When stomach acid flows back through the esophagus, it is called acid reflux, and this can cause irritation to the lining of the esophagus.

Occasional acid reflux is common and typically does not mean a person has GERD. On the other hand, someone with GERD experiences mild acid reflux at least two times per week, or a moderate to severe bout of reflux at least once weekly.

In most cases, lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications can improve GERD symptoms. People who have a more severe case of GERD may require prescription medications or surgery.

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What Our Patients Are Saying

Excellent
Digestive Health Institute | Gastroenterology4.7
Based on 2683 reviews
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Tim H.
6 days ago
Entire staff was very friendly and welcoming. Total time spent in the office from check-in to check-out was less than 20 minutes. I couldn't ask for more.
Beth D.
1 week ago
No waiting...and felt very comfortable with Don P.A..Everyone was really nice!
Dayna R.
1 week ago
My experience with DHI has been excellent.

I recently had a procedure which was scheduled by Christian Plumm. She was pleasant, informed, and committed to my understanding of the process. Likewise, Dr. Ross and the surgical team were friendly, professional, and competent. Additionally, Kylie Dennis has been helpful and persistent in providing the best health care. She is extremely thorough and intent on diagnosing any gastroenterological issues I may be experiencing. In total, they constitute a great health team.

I wouldn't go anywhere else!
William E.
2 weeks ago
The PA was thorough and seemed genuinely concerned about my health issues. He followed through by ordering some lab tests.
Robert U.
2 weeks ago
The nurse who did an initial exam was systematic and thoughtful. Dr. Ross listened attentively and walked me through his thinking. He made adjustments to my medication and added a new one that I used many years ago and was highly effective.
Kim E.
2 weeks ago
Wait time was very little. Maybe it was because I had an early appointment. Callie adressed any of my concerns. Things are going well for me so that's always good. Her assistant was great as well.
victor B.
4 weeks ago
Very positive experience. Don is always patient and explains everything very well and answered all of my questions.
Darla E.
4 weeks ago
Everyone was awesome very friendly & super sweet!
Dennis E.
4 weeks ago
I've been overwhelmed with my condition but the Dr's here are doing everything they can to slow progression down and they listen to what I say instead of shutting me down and believing only their opinions matter this place rocks
Andrew H.
1 month ago
I felt like they had time for me. They really addressed the situation that I had for a professional, and I felt like I was gaining some ground somewhere in my treatment, easy and easy out pleasant atmosphere.

Our Doctors

We’re proud of our team here at Digestive Health Institute. Our health care providers include some of the very best colorectal surgeons, gastroenterologists and physician assistants. To learn more about our qualified team of specialists, click their image or visit our providers page.

Scott Plaehn, DO, FACOI

Albert Ross, MD

Dorian Jones, MD

Jannel Lee-Allen, MD

Tadd Hiatt, MD

Matthew J. DiMagno, MD, AGAF

FAQs

What happens during my first visit?
If you are a new patient, you can expect to have a complete physical exam. You will also be asked detailed questions about your current problems and your past medical history, your current medications, allergies, your family history and other pertinent medical information. If you are taking medications, please bring a completed medical history form with you to your appointment. Once the physician has reviewed your medical information and completed the physical examination, a plan of care will be developed. You may need to be seen again in the office, be referred back to your family physician for follow-up care, or require additional testing. If additional tests are needed, we will assist you in scheduling these tests.
What if I need to schedule an endoscopic procedure?
An endoscopic procedure allows the physician to visualize a part of your gastrointestinal tract with a special instrument called an endoscope. If your family physician has ordered testing, you will be contacted by telephone by one of our staff members. If an Digestive Health Institute physician orders testing and you are in the office, the procedure can generally be scheduled during the course of your visit. You will be given a date, time, and location for the test, as well as written instructions telling you how to prepare for the test. If you have any questions about the procedure, please feel free to ask one of our staff members or the physician.
How do I get test results?
We ask that you wait 10 to 14 days before contacting us for results. Often results come from several different sources. This information needs to be compiled and reviewed by your physician before you can be appropriately advised. You may call 517-332-1200 and press “8″ and your call will be directed to the triage nurse.
What insurances do you accept?
Digestive Health Institute accepts payment from most insurance companies including Medicare, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Blue Care Network, Physicians Health Plan, Cofinity, Sparrow Professional Health Network, Medicaid, McLaren, Health Plus, and several others. Accepted insurances are subject to change at any time without notice.

If your insurance requires an authorization from your primary care physician, you may be asked to assist us in obtaining this authorization.

All patients are responsible for all copays and deductibles at the time of service.

If you have any questions regarding your benefits or insurance coverage, please contact our Billing Department at 517-332-1200 #6.

What if I need to contact the doctor?
To contact your doctor during business hours please call our main number 517-332-1200. If you have an urgent need to speak with the doctor after hours please call our answering service at 517-483-9124 and the doctor on call will be paged. In the case of a medical emergency please proceed directly to the nearest hospital emergency room.

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