Preparing for Your Colon Procedure

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Being prepared for your colonoscopy will ensure that your procedure proceeds as scheduled. The following pages provide answers to our patients’ most frequently asked questions. For additional information about your appointment or preparation instructions, please contact our schedulers at 508-334-8036.

 Before you proceed with a colonoscopy or any procedure, make sure you know:

• The name of the test or procedure
• The reason you are having the test or procedure 
• What results to expect and what they mean: See Understanding Your Colonoscopy Results
• When and how you will get the results of your procedure: See Understanding Your Colonoscopy Results
• Your risks and benefits of the test or procedure
• Possible side effects or complications of the procedure
• When and where you will have the test or procedure: See Directions (link to locations map)
• Who will do the test or procedure and their qualifications? See Find a Doctor
• What would happen if you don’t have the test or procedure? See What is a Colonoscopy
• Any alternative tests or procedures to consider: See Are there alternative procedures or tests to a colonoscopy that provide the same results?”
• Who to call after the test or procedure if you have questions or problems. (Emergencies call 911)
• How much you will have to pay for the test or procedure and whether it will be covered by your insurance
  • Contact your insurance company at the number listed on the back of your insurance card.
  • Get more information on financial counseling.
  • Learn more about the Medicare criteria for colonoscopy coverage.

Questions? 

For medical emergencies: call 911

For questions about appointment logistics or preparation: call our schedulers at 508-334-8036, Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4 pm. 

For health/clinical questions or problems before or after your procedure: call our nursing team Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4 pm

• 508-334-8419 (21 Eastern Avenue)
• 508-334-6484 (Memorial Campus)
• 774-442-2154 (University Campus)
• 508-597-2233 (Southborough)

For emergency questions (only after hours), contact the main hospital switchboard at 508-334-1000 and ask for the gastroenterology nurse or provider on call.

FAQs about your colonoscopy