Colonoscopy & EGD Prep FAQs
Colonoscopies and EGDs (upper endoscopies) are common outpatient procedures performed for screening and diagnostic purposes. Although, these procedures are generally painless, sedation is used, requiring a responsible adult to drive you home. Colonoscopies also require a clear liquid diet and specialized bowel prep prior to the procedure, while EGDs require an empty stomach.
To help you prepare for your colonoscopy and/or EGD, TPMG Gastroenterology – Williamsburg has provided answers to some of the more frequently asked questions about colonoscopy and EGD prep below. For additional questions, please contact TPMG Gastroenterology through the Patient Portal, or call the Williamsburg, VA office at (757) 206-1113.*
Note: Always follow the specific instructions provided by your doctor, as they may differ from general guidelines.
*An initial appointment is required, before your Colonoscopy is scheduled. At that appointment we will go over your prep instructions and schedule your Colonoscopy. Please call the office at 757-206-1113 opt. 4, if you have any questions.
We recommend arriving a few minutes early to complete any necessary paperwork, and please bring a list of current medications or relevant medical records, if applicable.
Do I need COVID-19 testing?
Each facility has different testing requirements. Currently, the TPMG Williamsburg and Newport News Procedure Suites do not require testing. Mary Immaculate Hospital COVID testing requirements are based on the current positivity rate. If you aren’t sure if COVID testing is required, you may reach the office through the Patient Portal.
Are there instructions to prepare for the colonoscopy and an EGD?
Please refer to the colonoscopy prep instruction and watch the colonoscopy prep video featuring Dr. Frances Jones and Kashama Alston, LPN. If you have any additional questions, you may reach the office through the Patient Portal.
For our EGD patients, please refer to the EGD Prep Instructions.
What foods am I allowed or not allowed to eat during my colonoscopy prep-period?
Please refer to our sample diet for the prep. If you have any additional questions, you may reach the office through the Patient Portal.
What is considered a "clear liquid"?
Please refer to our sample diet for the prep for more information regarding clear liquids. If you have any additional questions, you may reach the office through the Patient Portal.
If I have a deductible, will I be required to pay it prior to my procedure?
Yes. All deductibles are due at the time of service. Please call your insurance for more information or if you have a high deductible plan you may reach Rebecca Pope at 757-659-6285, extension 8002, to discuss payment in full plans before your procedure.
How much notification do I need to give if I need to cancel or reschedule my procedure?
72-business hour notification is required for our office to avoid a $150.00 cancellation fee. If you have any questions, you may reach the office through the Patient Portal.
Does someone have to come with me for my colonoscopy?
Yes. You must have someone bring you to and from your appointment and they remain at the facility throughout the duration of the procedure.
How many people are allowed to come with me?
One person should accompany you to your procedure, but others may be allowed if they are needed for communication, ambulatory, or healthcare needs. All others should wait in the car.
What medications should I stop before my colonoscopy?
Blood Thinners, some vitamins, and some supplements must be stopped 2-5 days prior to your procedure. You may you may reach the office through the Patient Portal at least five business days prior to your procedure if you have any questions or concerns.
How long does the colonoscopy procedure take?
Each patient experience differs depending on the care needed and their medical history, but it usually takes one hour to an hour and 30 minutes.
How should I expect to feel after my colonoscopy?
Each experience is different; however, mild to moderate pain and light bleeding from the site is normal. If you are unsure about symptoms following your procedure, you may reach the office through the Patient Portal.
How long after the colonoscopy will I get my results?
Please allow up to two weeks for your test results. If it’s been two weeks and you have not heard back, you may reach the office through the Patient Portal.
Why am I being billed for a diagnostic procedure when I was sent for a screening procedure?
Screening procedures can become diagnostic depending on what is found during the procedure. Please contact your insurance provider for further information concerning diagnostic procedure billing as each insurance company is different.