Frequently Asked Questions
When should I first be screened for colorectal cancer?
You should talk with your gastroenterologist about the best time for you to begin colorectal cancer screening. For most people, age 50 is the recommended age for a first colonoscopy. However, your doctor may suggest earlier screening if you have a family history of colon cancer, have blood in your stool, or have specific factors that could raise your risk of colon cancer.
How often will I need colorectal cancer screening in St. Petersburg?
Colorectal cancer is most easily prevented and treated when detected in its earliest stages. It can take many years for pre-cancerous polyps to turn into colorectal cancer, so most people can go several years between screenings, depending on the type of test being administered. Patients undergoing flexible sigmoidoscopy or barium enema, for example, need to be screened every 5 years. Those undergoing colonoscopy only need to be screened once every 10 years. People with an elevated risk of colon cancer or a history of polyps may need colorectal cancer screenings more often. Also, your doctor may order a fecal occult blood test, fecal immunochemical test or a stool DNA test once per year in between screenings to check for the presence of colon cancer.
Is there anything I can do to reduce my risk of developing colon cancer?
Yes. While no single habit guarantees prevention, several lifestyle factors are strongly linked to lower colon cancer risk:
- Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Staying physically active and maintaining a healthy weight
- Limiting red meat and processed meat
- Avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol
- Keeping up with regular screenings and colonoscopies
- Knowing your family history and any genetic predispositions
- Managing chronic conditions like diabetes that can raise risk
- Staying hydrated and getting adequate dietary fiber
- Talking with a healthcare professional about your personalized risk
Combining these habits with routine screening remains the most effective way to catch, and often prevent, colon cancer early.
What conditions and procedures does Florida Digestive Specialists treat?
Our gastroenterologists diagnose and treat a wide range of digestive conditions, including acid reflux, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, hemorrhoid issues, liver disease, and colon polyps. We perform procedures such as colonoscopy, upper endoscopy (EGD), capsule endoscopy, ERCP, anorectal manometry, and hemorrhoid banding, along with colon cancer and Hepatitis C screening.
How soon can I get an appointment?
We see most new patients within one week of calling, and we offer same-week availability for procedures when needed.
Do you accept my insurance?
Yes, Florida Digestive Specialists accepts most major insurance providers. Since coverage can vary by specific plan, we recommend calling our office at 727-443-4299 to confirm your benefits before your visit.
Do I need a referral to see a gastroenterologist?
This depends on your specific insurance plan. Some plans require a referral from your primary care physician before your visit. Call our office ahead of time at 727-443-4299 to confirm whether your plan requires one, so your appointment isn’t delayed.
Do you offer financing for procedures?
Yes. We partner with Liquid Loan to offer instant, mobile-based financing for medical expenses. Liquid Loan offers multiple monthly payment plans to fit different budgets, and options are available regardless of your current credit situation. You can apply directly online through our financing page.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Please bring a photo ID and your insurance card. If you’re coming in for a specific procedure, our office provides preparation instructions and consent forms in advance, available on our Patient Forms page. You can also complete a Medical Release form if you need records sent from a previous provider.
How do I access my patient portal or make a payment?
Our patient portal handles appointment payments, and you can access it directly from the link at the top of our website. For questions about a specific bill, test result, or message to your provider, our office staff can help route your request. Call 727-443-4299.
What are your office hours, and how do I reach you if I have an urgent concern?
Our office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm, and closed Saturday and Sunday. For urgent concerns, call 727-443-4299. If you’re experiencing a medical emergency, go to your nearest emergency room rather than waiting for a callback.