The Role of a Gastroenterologist

When your primary care provider (PCP) recommends a visit to a gastroenterologist, it’s natural to have questions. Why do I need to see a specialist? What can I expect? The truth is your PCP and gastroenterologist work as a team — each with a unique role in keeping your digestive health on track.

What is a Gastroenterologist?

A gastroenterologist is a physician who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the digestive system. This includes your esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. Because the digestive tract plays such an essential role in your overall health, gastroenterologists receive advanced training to understand and manage both common and complex gastrointestinal (GI) issues.

When Your PCP Might Refer You

Your primary care provider may refer you to a gastroenterologist for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common include:

• Digestive symptoms that persist – Ongoing abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, or changes in bowel habits that don’t improve with initial treatment.
• Acid reflux – Frequent heartburn or suspected gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) that requires further evaluation or specialized procedures.
• Screening and prevention – Routine colon cancer screening through colonoscopy, typically starting at age 45, or earlier for those with family history or risk factors.
• Liver or gallbladder issues – Abnormal liver tests, fatty liver disease, or gallstones often call for specialist evaluation.
• Inflammatory or chronic conditions – Disorders like Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or celiac disease benefit from expert management.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

During your first visit, your gastroenterologist will take time to review your medical history, discuss your symptoms, and may recommend additional tests or imaging to reach a diagnosis. Depending on your needs, you may undergo procedures such as an endoscopy, colonoscopy, or imaging studies to evaluate your digestive system more closely.

At Gastroenterology Associates, our goal is to make this process as comfortable and informative as possible. We believe patients should understand their care every step of the way.

A Team Approach to Digestive Health

Your PCP plays a vital role in your overall health — and by collaborating with a gastroenterologist, you gain access to specialized care tailored to your digestive system. Whether it’s a one-time evaluation or ongoing management, this partnership helps ensure you receive comprehensive, coordinated care.

Final Thoughts

Being referred to a gastroenterologist isn’t something to worry about — it’s an important step toward understanding your digestive health and getting the care you need. Early evaluation can lead to faster answers, better outcomes, and greater peace of mind.

At Gastroenterology Associates, our team is committed to providing comprehensive care for all aspects of liver and digestive health. Please don’t hesitate to text 864-589-6714 or schedule a visit with one of our providers.

Written by Dr. David Gulley, Gastroenterologist