Why do I have to fill out paperwork and answer questions at the endoscopy center when I already answered them at the doctor’s office?

Eastside Endoscopy Center is owned by a group of physicians and a corporate partner, and while the center is located next to their offices, it is a separate business. Medicare accredited facilities are required to have a separate chart for all patients. In addition, our nursing staff wants to make sure we have your most up-to-date health information, including your current medications. 

Will my insurance cover my procedure?

Most insurers cover colonoscopy and upper endoscopy procedures. All insurance plans differ so it is important for you to contact your insurance company and discuss your benefits. You will be responsible for any co-pay or deductibles. If you need assistance in determining your benefits, please contact our office. 

My insurance covers a screening colonoscopy at 100%. I have had polyps removed; will my procedure still be considered “screening”? 

No. Once you have had polyps removed, repeat colonoscopies are coded as a history of colon polyps. Screening colonoscopy is ONLY a colonoscopy done for NO symptoms (past or present).

Why will I get three separate bills for my procedure?

You will receive a bill from our facility (Eastside Endoscopy Center), a bill from the physician who performed the procedure, and if you had tissue biopsied or removed, a bill from the pathology lab. 

Why should I have my procedure done at Eastside Endoscopy Center?

Eastside Endoscopy Center’s highly skilled team of doctors and nurses are committed to providing the highest quality endoscopic services in a comfortable atmosphere. We specialize in gastroenterology and endoscopy procedures. In addition, Eastside Endoscopy Center has been accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC) since 1996. Eastside Endoscopy Center was the first endoscopy center in Washington State to achieve this accreditation.

I have concerns about the procedure; is there someone I can call?

If you have specific concerns about the day of the procedure, please feel free to contact our office and speak with one of our nurses. If you have questions about the preparation before your procedure, please contact your gastroenterologist’s office. 

Why can’t I go back to work or drive home?

The medications used to help you relax during your procedure will have an effect on your reflexes and judgment for 12 hours and may also have a temporary effect on your short term memory. For this reason it is important to have someone you trust with you to hear your discharge instructions and make sure you arrive home safely. If you drive before these drugs are eliminated from your system, it is considered “driving under the influence” and is punishable under the Washington State DUI Statute RCW 46.61.502. Our staff are obligated to report to the local police any patient who drives after receiving these drugs. We would prefer your escort remain in the building during your procedure. There is a coffee bar and restaurant on the first floor for their convenience. Pagers are available at the front desk. 

What medications do you use?

A combination of two medicines: Fentanyl (a narcotic used to control pain) and Versed (a medicine used to promote relaxation) are generally used. 

Will I be asleep for my procedure?

Some patients may sleep through the procedure while others may not. Our goal is your comfort. We do not use general anesthesia for these procedures so you will not be “out”. 

Can I take my normal medications?

Yes. You should take all of your normal medications. The only exception to this may be blood thinning products, insulin and fish oil. Please check with your physician prior to your procedure about taking these drugs.

How soon after the procedure can I eat?

You can resume your normal diet after the procedure. If you had an Upper Endoscopy, your throat may be sprayed with a numbing medicine. Your recovery nurse will instruct you when it is safe to resume your diet after receiving this spray. 

I finished my colonoscopy prep and I am still noticing formed stool in the toilet. What should I do?

If you have completed your entire prep and are still passing formed stool, your procedure may need to be rescheduled. Contact the Endoscopy Center as soon as possible and request to speak with a nurse.