Patient FAQ
Please refer to our Procedure Preparation Medical Guidelines for detailed information about diet and medications you take prior to your procedure.
If you have questions, call the nurse at 717-763-0430 ext. 346 and leave a message. They will get back to you as soon as possible. If calling after hours, leave a message on the emergency line and the on-call physician will return your call. This includes prep problems. Do not wait until the morning of the procedure to call.
Telemedicine FAQs
What kind of computer or technology do I need before having my Video Visit?
You need to have a computer equipped with a webcam and microphone. You can also use your smart phone or tablet.
Is the visit secure?
Yes, telemedicine is HIPAA compliant and is encrypted to protect the patient’s privacy. The communications are not recorded.
How do I make sure that people can see me?
Once you click on button that says, “Click to start video call” your device may ask for permission to access your microphone and video camera. You will need to allow access to both.
I am in the “Visit Video Room” and only see myself, now what?
This means that not all participants (Provider and Patient) have joined the meeting. Once all participants are in the room you will be able to see and hear each other. You may need to adjust your speaker volume as well as unmute your microphone.
What if I can’t see or hear my provider?
It is possible that both the provider and the patient are both connected but neither can see or hear each other. In this case, call 717-763-0430 and ask for Scheduling.
I still need technical assistance. How can I get help?
Please call Technical Support at 717-763-0430 x 314.
Note: PA GI Consultants is not responsible for additional charges incurred for excess cellular data usage.
Transportation FAQs
Why can’t I drive home?
It is illegal for you to drive after receiving anesthesia. Patients without a driver may have their procedure cancelled. Please arrange for transportation.
Can I leave my car parked at PA GI overnight?
You can; however, you assume all risks associated with leaving your vehicle.
If I have someone drive me, does my driver have to wait on site?
No. We can call your driver when you are ready to leave. Please provide us with the driver’s phone number and make sure they are easily accessible.
Taking Medications
Should I take my medications the morning of my procedure?
You should take your blood pressure medication, heart medication, and medication for seizures and inhalers. Do not take blood thinners. All other medications should be held until after the procedure. If you are diabetic please call your primary care doctor for adjustments in your insulin dosage.
Can I take my sleeping pill the night before?
Yes.
Procedure Preparation
What if I can’t drink the prep solution?
Contact the on-call physician at (717) 763-0430. Leave a message on the emergency line with contact information, and the physician will call you back. Call early so that we can offer alternatives when needed.
Cherry and orange flavor packets are available, the prep instructions say nothing red or orange colored. May I use them?
You may use the flavor packets that are available. They flavor the liquid. They do not add any color to the solution.
How soon will the laxatives start to work?
Everyone is different. Some people will have results within 15 minutes. Others may not have results for up to two hours.
Should I take off work the afternoon I start my prep?
You are going to have diarrhea after you take the laxative tablets and will feel more comfortable in your own bathroom. If necessary, you can begin the bowel preparation later in the afternoon.
May I have coffee or soda on the day of my prep?
You may have up to two cups of black coffee or soda before noon on the day before your procedure.
Can I eat on the day of my prep?
You may have clear liquids only. NO SOLID FOOD. A clean colon provides the most accurate test.
Will I be able to talk to the doctor before my procedure?
Yes. You will speak to the doctor before and after the procedure.
Do I need to remove nail polish and jewelry?
No.
Test Results
When will I get my test results?
Patients who undergo testing performed at Pennsylvania Gastroenterology Consultants and Digestive Disease Institute will be notified of the results usually within 10 days by phone or mail. Patients are encouraged to contact our office for test results if they are not notified within this period of time.