Do I need a referral? Most insurance plans in Alaska allow self‑referral for GI consults, but some require a referral. We’ll help check your benefits.

How do I schedule? Call us at Valley Gastroenterology (907)373-2544. Please have your insurance info and preferred dates ready.

Where are you located? We serve the Mat-Su Valley at our Wasilla clinic and endoscopy center; outreach and telehealth options are available.

3190 E Meridian Park Loop, Suite 206

Wasilla, Alaska 99654

Do you offer telehealth? Yes—for appropriate visits (new consults, results, medication follow‑ups). Procedures require in‑person care.

Which screening test is best for colon cancer? For most adults starting at age 45, colonoscopy is preferred because it can find and remove polyps in the same visit.

How do I prepare for a colonoscopy? Most patients use a split‑dose prep. Your exact instructions depend on the prep kit and your medications. Follow the instructions we provide and call if you’re unsure.

What if I’m on blood thinners or GLP‑1 medications? Do not stop on your own. Tell us what you take; we’ll coordinate a safe plan with your prescriber.

Will I be asleep for my procedure? We use safe, modern sedation or anesthesia. Most patients feel comfortable and remember little or nothing.

How long will I be at the endoscopy center? Plan for 2–3 hours total (check‑in, procedure, recovery). You’ll need a driver to take you home.

When will I get my results? Your clinician will review initial findings before you leave. If biopsies are taken, pathology results are usually ready in 7–14 days via phone or portal.

Is bleeding normal after polyp removal? A small amount can be normal. Call us or go to the ER for heavy bleeding, black/tarry stools, severe pain, fever >101°F, or persistent vomiting.

When can I return to work? Most people resume normal activities the next day; heavy lifting may be restricted for a week after large EMR or advanced therapy.

What symptoms should prompt a GI visit? Trouble swallowing, new or persistent heartburn, abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, black/tarry stools, unintentional weight loss, ongoing diarrhea or constipation, nausea, vomiting, pancreatic and bile duct disorders and gastrointestinal cancers (esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, pancreas, bile duct, liver and neuroendocrine tumors). We also evaluate you for abnormal labs such as low hemoglobin (anemia) or elevated liver enzymes.

Do you manage liver disease and fatty liver (MASLD/NAFLD)? Yes—we evaluate and manage medical therapy and surveillance. For FibroScan® (liver stiffness testing) we coordinate referral and review results with you.

Do you offer weight‑loss endoscopy? Yes, Endoscopic Bariatrics options (e.g., ESG, intragastric balloon, TORe) are available for selected patients as part of a structured program.

I take diabetes medication (including GLP‑1s). How does that affect procedures? We’ll provide a customized plan for prep day and the morning of your procedure to keep you safe.

Can I keep taking my heartburn medicine (PPI)? Usually yes, but if we are testing for H. pylori or doing certain procedures, we may ask you to hold it temporarily.

What if I have sleep apnea or heart/lung conditions? Please tell us. We tailor anesthesia and monitoring. Bring CPAP details if you have one.

Pregnant or possibly pregnant? Please inform us—some procedures are deferred unless urgently needed.

Do you accept my insurance? We work with most plans. We’ll verify benefits and review any expected costs. Screening and diagnostic benefits may differ if a polyp is removed or if you have symptoms.

Do I need prior authorization? Many plans require it. Our team handles authorizations and will contact you if more information is needed.

Do you offer cash pricing? Yes—ask about our self‑pay and payment‑plan options.

What happens if weather or roads are unsafe? We monitor Mat‑Su conditions and will reschedule without penalty if travel is unsafe. Please allow extra time in winter.

Is your facility accessible? Yes. Let us know about mobility needs so we can assist.

How much fiber do I need? Aim for 25–30 g/day from foods and/or supplements, plus plenty of water.

Any quick tips for reflux? Smaller meals, avoid late‑night eating, elevate the head of the bed, limit trigger foods, reach a healthy weight, and take medications as prescribed.