Crohn’s Disease

Crohn’s is an inflammatory bowel disease, meaning it causes inflammation in the digestive tract, which can spread to the deep layers of the bowel. Crohn’s disease can cause painful symptoms that interfere with daily life, and it can lead to potentially life-threatening complications for some people. Fortunately, there is treatment available for Crohn’s, which can make symptoms more manageable and heal inflammation in the digestive tract.

Symptoms of Crohn’s can vary from person-to-person, and people may have periods with no symptoms. Oftentimes, symptoms come on gradually, but they can appear suddenly in some cases. There are multiple symptoms of Crohn’s, but some common ones include stomach pain, diarrhea, and weight loss.

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What Our Patients Are Saying

Gustavo P.
1 day ago
It was a pleasant and informative visit.Scott is polite, knowledgeable and professional.
Steve S.
7 days ago
I was completely happy with my visit..
Priscilla D.
1 week ago
My primary Dr referred me here because no GI Dr near where I live could get me in for a scope until November. The issues I've been having could not wait another 5 months. I ended up seeing Dr Blayney and she absolutely terrific! It was the first time I had a GI Dr not be dismissive with me and validate a lot of what I've been dealing with. She spent almost an hour talking to me. You can tell she genuinely cares about her patients. I also was able to get a scope done within a week of seeing her due to a cancellation! Despite living an hour away, this will be where I will be going for treatment going forward. All the staff I've interacted with have been wonderful!!
Harold N.
1 week ago
Excellent care by all
Jeanne D.
2 weeks ago
Clear quick communication. Pleased.
Linda S.
3 weeks ago
Professional staff, did not wait long, listened and provided the help I needed.
Lisa G.
3 weeks ago
I’ve had a great experience with DHI. They have been attentive and listen carefully. I always leave with a plan of action- I would recommend them to family and friends.
Kathy M.
3 weeks ago
My PA Scott did a fantastic job of going over my records with me, making the transition to a new doctor and PA so much more comfortable. Change can be difficult when you've been seeing the same doctor for years and have developed a solid relationship with your doctor and his/her assistants. I have also spent time with Amanda, who is so personable and understanding. Dr LeeAllan is also very thorough and thoughtful, and she takes the time to listen and weigh out a 'course of treatment'. I'm feeling way better about Dr. Walling's retirement!
Roberta M.
4 weeks ago
The doctor ask me questions about the history of my issue. He suggested treatment. Further tests were scheduled in a timely manner. A follow up visit will be scheduled after the test results are in. It was a very productive appointment.
Sarah P.
4 weeks ago
I saw Donald Laird. He was very prompt, thorough, informative, well- educated, and listened well to all my concerns and health history. Very happy to have been sent here, just wish it would have been years sooner like it should have been.

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

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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