Gastroenterology & Hepatology (Digestive Care)

Digestive and liver conditions can interfere with your daily life. At Mayo Clinic Health System, our gastroenterology and hepatology specialists provide comprehensive care to evaluate and manage a wide range of digestive health concerns, helping you move toward improved comfort, function and overall well being.

Find out more about our digestive health services:

Conditions and consultations

Our gastroenterology and hepatology specialists evaluate and manage a range of digestive and liver conditions affecting the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder and pancreas. These conditions may impact digestion, nutrient absorption and overall health, and care is tailored to each person’s symptoms, diagnosis and care needs.

Conditions we treat include:

Barrett's esophagus
Celiac disease
Cirrhosis
Diverticulitis
Fecal incontinence
Gallstones
Gastroparesis
GERD, often including acid reflux that causes heartburn
Hepatitis
Irritable bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Pancreatitis
Peptic ulcer disease

Diagnosis and treatments

We utilize the latest advances in diagnostic tests, imaging and procedures to assess and treat conditions affecting the digestive tract, liver, pancreas and gallbladder. Not all tests and procedures are available at all Mayo Clinic Health System locations, and your care team will work with you to determine which options are appropriate based on your condition and individual needs.

Digestive health tests and procedures we provide include:

Anorectal function motility
Capsule endoscopy
Colonoscopy
Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR)
Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)
Endoscopic ultrasound
Esophageal manometry
Paracentesis
Upper GI endoscopy

Digestive health specialists

Our experienced team of digestive health specialists collaborate to prevent, diagnose and treat digestive tract and liver disorders involving the pancreas, liver, gallbladder, esophagus, stomach, small intestine and colon.

Our specialists include:

Gastroenterologists — treat and manage digestive system issues
Hepatologists — treat and manage liver, gallbladder and bile duct issues
Nurse practitioners
Physician assistants

Find digestive health specialists near you.

Referrals

A referral may be required depending on your need. Simply call the appointment number of your preferred Gastroenterology & Hepatology location.

FAQ

When should I make an appointment with a gastroenterology or hepatology specialist?

You may want to make an appointment with a gastroenterology or hepatology specialist if you have digestive or liver symptoms that are:

Ongoing or worsening
Affecting your daily activities or quality of life
Not improving with initial treatment or lifestyle changes

Common reasons to consider a referral include persistent heartburn or reflux, abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, chronic diarrhea or constipation, abnormal liver tests, or concerns related to liver or digestive health.

In many cases, your primary care provider can help evaluate your symptoms and determine whether seeing a digestive health specialist is appropriate. If you don’t have a primary care provider, Mayo Clinic Health System can help you find one.

When should I seek emergency medical care for digestive or liver symptoms?

Some digestive and liver symptoms may require immediate medical attention. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department if you experience:

Severe or sudden abdominal pain
Chest pain or pressure
Uncontrolled vomiting or vomiting blood
Black or bloody stools
Signs of severe dehydration, confusion or fainting
Yellowing of the skin or eyes combined with fever or abdominal pain

For non‑emergency digestive symptoms that are ongoing or worsening, your primary care provider can help evaluate your symptoms and determine whether seeing a digestive health specialist is appropriate. If you don’t have a primary care provider, Mayo Clinic Health System can help you find one.

When should I have a colonoscopy for colorectal cancer screening?

Colonoscopy is one option for colorectal cancer screening. For people at average risk, Mayo Clinic experts recommend beginning colorectal cancer screening at age 45, even if there are no symptoms. A colonoscopy may be repeated at regular intervals when results are normal, based on your health history, risk factors and your care team’s recommendations.

Some people may need to begin screening earlier than age 45 or be screened more often if they have an increased risk of colorectal cancer. Risk factors may include a personal or family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, or certain inherited conditions. Your primary care provider can help determine when to begin screening and which screening option is appropriate for you.

What should I expect during my first appointment, and what should I bring?

At your first appointment, bring your current prescription information and any imaging or medical records from non-Mayo Clinic Health System facilities. Complete a medical records release form (PDF) to authorize the transfer of health records from another healthcare facility to us. Visit our Medical Record Forms page for this form and other forms in multiple languages.

What preparation is required for a colonoscopy?

You'll need to prepare your colon for your colonoscopy. This will include drinking a solution that will help you empty your colon before the procedure. You'll receive instructions from your healthcare team.

What are my payment options, and do you offer financial assistance?

Visit the billing page of your preferred location for information on insurance, billing and payments.

We serve patients in difficult financial circumstances and offer financial assistance to those who have an established need to receive medically necessary services. Learn more about financial assistance options.

Can you provide a second opinion?

Yes — simply call the appointment number at your preferred Gastroenterology & Hepatology location. See What should I expect during my first appointment? for tips on how to prepare.

Do you have an after-hours number in case of emergency?

Always call 911 in case of an emergency. For after-hours help with other issues, get virtual care 24/7 through the Primary Care On Demand app or review our convenient care options.