General Prep FAQs

Is my procedure covered by my health insurance?

Please check with your health insurance plan 14 days prior to your planned procedure to be sure your procedure is covered. Ask your health insurance plan if a co-payment or other prepayment is due on Procedure Day.

I take blood thinner, what should I do? 

FOR YOUR SAFETY AND TO PREVENT A LAST-MINUTE CANCELLATION OF YOUR PROCEDURE: If you were not given instructions by our office regarding your blood thinner (s), you will be called with instructions at least 7 days prior to your procedure. If you are not called by our office, please call the doctor who prescribes your blood thinner and ask when you should stop your blood thinner prior to your procedure. To Cancel or reschedule please call our office at West Loop Chicago Office Phone Number West Loop Chicago Office Phone Number 312-929-3140.

Common Blood Thinners:

  • Arixtra (Fondaparinux)
  • Brilinta (Ticagrelor)
  • Coumadin (Warfarin)
  • Effient (Prasugrel)
  • Eliquis (Apixaban)
  • Lovenox (Enoxaparin)
  • Plavix (Clopidogrel)
  • Pletal (Cilastazol)
  • Pradaxa (Dabigatran Etexilate)
  • Xarelto (Rivaroxaban)

Where is my colonoscopy prep?

You should have your colonoscopyprep at least 5 days prior to your procedure. If the pharmacy has not called you to say your bowel prep is ready for pickup, please call your pharmacy. Ask if a fax was received. Pick up your bowel prep as soon you can.

Please View Our Colonoscopy Prep Instructions

Have More Questions? Or Are You Ready To Take The Next Step In Your Digestive Health? Contact Our Office Today To Schedule An Appointment!

West Loop Chicago Office Phone Number 312-929-3140 Book Online Schedule a Virtual Appointment

I have diabetes so how should I take my insulin?

If you have type I Diabetes or use an Insulin pump or U-500 Insulin call your doctor or diabetic educator at least 3 days before your colonoscopy. Ask how to manage your blood sugar and medicine while you prepare for your procedure.

I am having an EGD tomorrow, how should I prepare?

  • You will be receiving IV conscious sedation for your procedure and your stomach must be completely empty to ensure SAFETY! Stop eating and drinking (INCLUDING WATER!) 6 HOURS PRIOR to your scheduled procedure. NO CHEWING GUM.
  • You will not be allowed to drive home. Please confirm your schedule with a responsible adult who can accompany you and drive or walk you home. Remember you are not allowed to drive until the next morning.
  • If your have a cold, sore throat, runny nose/congestion, or cough. Please call us to reschedule.
  • Avoid lotion, remove lipstick, remove makeup, and nail polish on day of procedure.

I wear a CPAP at night, should I bring it?

Yes, please bring your CPAP with you to the procedure. 

What if I don’t have a driver?

We will be unable to sedate you for your procedure. No exceptions.