A U.S. News & World Report Best Ambulatory Surgery Center!

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For the second year, Endoscopy Center of the Central Coast has been named one of the Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. These ratings of outpatient surgical centers offer patients a data-informed resource when seeking outpatient surgical care. 

As an AMSURG-affiliated surgery center, we are at the forefront of gastroenterology. AMSURG is a leader in ambulatory surgery center services with 64 of its surgery centers being recognized by U.S. News. 

“Providing high-quality patient care is a core commitment at every AMSURG center,” said Jeff Snodgrass, President and CEO of AMSURG. “Having 64 of our centers recognized by U.S. News & World Report is a testament to the expertise and compassion of our teams across the country. This achievement directly reflects our unwavering dedication to excellence. Congratulations to all centers honored.” 

U.S. News and its partner CareJourney rated more than 4,000 surgery centers across the country on several criteria, including how successfully they avoided complications, ER visits, unplanned hospitalizations and other undesirable outcomes; patient outcomes; risk-adjustment and more. Ambulatory Surgery Centers were evaluated in four separate specialty areas: Gastroenterology, Orthopedics, Ophthalmology and Urology. 

Click here for more information. For more on the U.S. News Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers ratings, explore Facebook and Instagram using #BestASCs. 

A U.S. News & World Report Best Ambulatory Surgery Center!

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For the second year, Shared Content has been named one of the Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. These ratings of outpatient surgical centers offer patients a data-informed resource when seeking outpatient surgical care. 

As an AMSURG-affiliated surgery center, we are at the forefront of gastroenterology. AMSURG is a leader in ambulatory surgery center services with 64 of its surgery centers being recognized by U.S. News. 

“Providing high-quality patient care is a core commitment at every AMSURG center,” said Jeff Snodgrass, President and CEO of AMSURG. “Having 64 of our centers recognized by U.S. News & World Report is a testament to the expertise and compassion of our teams across the country. This achievement directly reflects our unwavering dedication to excellence. Congratulations to all centers honored.” 

U.S. News and its partner CareJourney rated more than 4,000 surgery centers across the country on several criteria, including how successfully they avoided complications, ER visits, unplanned hospitalizations and other undesirable outcomes; patient outcomes; risk-adjustment and more. Ambulatory Surgery Centers were evaluated in four separate specialty areas: Gastroenterology, Orthopedics, Ophthalmology and Urology. 

Click here for more information. For more on the U.S. News Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers ratings, explore Facebook and Instagram using #BestASCs. 

A U.S. News & World Report Best Ambulatory Surgery Center!

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Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Center has been named one of the Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. These ratings of outpatient surgical centers offer patients a data-informed resource when seeking outpatient surgical care. 

As an AMSURG-affiliated surgery center, we are at the forefront of gastroenterology. AMSURG is a leader in ambulatory surgery center services with 64 of its surgery centers being recognized by U.S. News. 

“Providing high-quality patient care is a core commitment at every AMSURG center,” said Jeff Snodgrass, President and CEO of AMSURG. “Having 64 of our centers recognized by U.S. News & World Report is a testament to the expertise and compassion of our teams across the country. This achievement directly reflects our unwavering dedication to excellence. Congratulations to all centers honored.” 

U.S. News and its partner CareJourney rated more than 4,000 surgery centers across the country on several criteria, including how successfully they avoided complications, ER visits, unplanned hospitalizations and other undesirable outcomes; patient outcomes; risk-adjustment and more. Ambulatory Surgery Centers were evaluated in four separate specialty areas: Gastroenterology, Orthopedics, Ophthalmology and Urology. 

Click here for more information. For more on the U.S. News Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers ratings, explore Facebook and Instagram using #BestASCs. 

A U.S. News & World Report Best Ambulatory Surgery Center!

by

Shared Content has been named one of the Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. These ratings of outpatient surgical centers offer patients a data-informed resource when seeking outpatient surgical care. 

As an AMSURG-affiliated surgery center, we are at the forefront of ophthalmology. AMSURG is a leader in ambulatory surgery center services with 64 of its surgery centers being recognized by U.S. News. 

“Providing high-quality patient care is a core commitment at every AMSURG center,” said Jeff Snodgrass, President and CEO of AMSURG. “Having 64 of our centers recognized by U.S. News & World Report is a testament to the expertise and compassion of our teams across the country. This achievement directly reflects our unwavering dedication to excellence. Congratulations to all centers honored.” 

U.S. News and its partner CareJourney rated more than 4,000 surgery centers across the country on several criteria, including how successfully they avoided complications, ER visits, unplanned hospitalizations and other undesirable outcomes; patient outcomes; risk-adjustment and more. Ambulatory Surgery Centers were evaluated in four separate specialty areas: Gastroenterology, Orthopedics, Ophthalmology and Urology. 

Click here for more information. For more on the U.S. News Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers ratings, explore Facebook and Instagram using #BestASCs. 

A U.S. News & World Report Best Ambulatory Surgery Center!

by

Shared Content has been named one of the Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. These ratings of outpatient surgical centers offer patients a data-informed resource when seeking outpatient surgical care. 

As an AMSURG-affiliated surgery center, we are at the forefront of gastroenterology. AMSURG is a leader in ambulatory surgery center services with 64 of its surgery centers being recognized by U.S. News. 

“Providing high-quality patient care is a core commitment at every AMSURG center,” said Jeff Snodgrass, President and CEO of AMSURG. “Having 64 of our centers recognized by U.S. News & World Report is a testament to the expertise and compassion of our teams across the country. This achievement directly reflects our unwavering dedication to excellence. Congratulations to all centers honored.” 

U.S. News and its partner CareJourney rated more than 4,000 surgery centers across the country on several criteria, including how successfully they avoided complications, ER visits, unplanned hospitalizations and other undesirable outcomes; patient outcomes; risk-adjustment and more. Ambulatory Surgery Centers were evaluated in four separate specialty areas: Gastroenterology, Orthopedics, Ophthalmology and Urology. 

Click here for more information. For more on the U.S. News Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers ratings, explore Facebook and Instagram using #BestASCs. 

U.S. News & World Report Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers!

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The Endoscopy Center North and the Endoscopy Center West have both been named one of the Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. These ratings of outpatient surgical centers offer patients a data-informed resource when seeking outpatient surgical care.

As AMSURG-affiliated surgery centers, we are at the forefront of gastroenterology. AMSURG is a leader in ambulatory surgery center services with 64 of its surgery centers being recognized by U.S. News. 

“Providing high-quality patient care is a core commitment at every AMSURG center,” said Jeff Snodgrass, President and CEO of AMSURG. “Having 64 of our centers recognized by U.S. News & World Report is a testament to the expertise and compassion of our teams across the country. This achievement directly reflects our unwavering dedication to excellence. Congratulations to all centers honored.” 

U.S. News and its partner CareJourney rated more than 4,000 surgery centers across the country on several criteria, including how successfully they avoided complications, ER visits, unplanned hospitalizations and other undesirable outcomes; patient outcomes; risk-adjustment and more. Ambulatory Surgery Centers were evaluated in four separate specialty areas: Gastroenterology, Orthopedics, Ophthalmology and Urology. 

Click here for more information. For more on the U.S. News Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers ratings, explore Facebook and Instagram using #BestASCs. 

U.S. News & World Report Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers!

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MGA Gastrointestinal Diagnostic and Therapeutic Center – Metairie and MGA Gastrointestinal Diagnostic and Therapeutic Center have both been named one of the Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. These ratings of outpatient surgical centers offer patients a data-informed resource when seeking outpatient surgical care. 

As AMSURG-affiliated surgery centers, we are at the forefront of gastroenterology. AMSURG is a leader in ambulatory surgery center services with 64 of its surgery centers being recognized by U.S. News. 

“Providing high-quality patient care is a core commitment at every AMSURG center,” said Jeff Snodgrass, President and CEO of AMSURG. “Having 64 of our centers recognized by U.S. News & World Report is a testament to the expertise and compassion of our teams across the country. This achievement directly reflects our unwavering dedication to excellence. Congratulations to all centers honored.” 

U.S. News and its partner CareJourney rated more than 4,000 surgery centers across the country on several criteria, including how successfully they avoided complications, ER visits, unplanned hospitalizations and other undesirable outcomes; patient outcomes; risk-adjustment and more. Ambulatory Surgery Centers were evaluated in four separate specialty areas: Gastroenterology, Orthopedics, Ophthalmology and Urology. 

Click here for more information. For more on the U.S. News Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers ratings, explore Facebook and Instagram using #BestASCs. 

A U.S. News & World Report Best Ambulatory Surgery Center!

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Doctors Park Surgery Center has been named one of the Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers in the nation, according to U.S. News & World Report. These ratings of outpatient surgical centers offer patients a data-informed resource when seeking outpatient surgical care. 

As an AMSURG-affiliated surgery center, we are at the forefront of urology. AMSURG is an independent leader in ambulatory surgery center services with 64 of its surgery centers being recognized by U.S. News. 

“Providing high-quality patient care is a core commitment at every AMSURG center,” said Jeff Snodgrass, President and CEO of AMSURG. “Having 64 of our centers recognized by U.S. News & World Report is a testament to the expertise and compassion of our teams across the country. This achievement directly reflects our unwavering dedication to excellence. Congratulations to all centers honored.”   

U.S. News and its partner CareJourney rated more than 4,000 surgery centers across the country on several criteria, including how successfully they avoided complications, ER visits, unplanned hospitalizations and other undesirable outcomes; patient outcomes; risk-adjustment and more. Ambulatory Surgery Centers were evaluated in four separate specialty areas: Gastroenterology, Orthopedics, Ophthalmology and Urology. 

Click here for more information. For more on the U.S. News Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers ratings, explore Facebook and Instagram using #BestASCs. 

Lower Your Risk of Colon Cancer: Simple Lifestyle Changes That Make a Difference

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Did you know that colon cancer is PREVENTABLE? March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to focus on your colon cancer prevention — and even those in their 20s and 30s need to pay attention to these tips now to help prevent colon cancer.

Along with regular colonoscopy screenings, small lifestyle changes can make a big impact on lowering your risk of colon cancer (and these colon cancer facts and statistics can save your life).

Here are some simple but powerful ways to keep your colon healthy:

1. Eat a Fiber-Rich, Gut-Friendly Diet

What you eat plays a major role in colon health. A diet high in fiber helps keep things moving smoothly in your digestive system, reducing the risk of inflammation and harmful build-up in the colon, where colon cancer could potentially find a home and grow.

Try incorporating:

  • Fruits & Vegetables – Berries, leafy greens, and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli are packed with fiber and antioxidants.
  • Whole Grains – Swap refined carbs for whole wheat bread, brown rice, quinoa, and oats.
  • Legumes & Beans – A great source of fiber and protein that promotes a healthy gut.

In addition, limit processed meats (like hot dogs and bacon) and reduce red meat intake, as studies link them and other ultra-processed foods to a higher risk of colorectal cancer.

2. Stay Active – Your Colon Will Thank You!

Exercise isn’t just for heart health—it’s great for your gut too! Regular physical activity reduces inflammation, improves digestion, and helps maintain a healthy weight, all of which can lower colon cancer risk.

Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise (like walking, cycling, or swimming) most days of the week. Even small changes, like taking the stairs or stretching during breaks, can make a difference and increase your overall activity level.

3. Drink More Water & Cut Back on Alcohol

Hydration is key to a healthy digestive system. Drinking enough water helps move waste efficiently through the colon, preventing constipation and irritation (and again reducing the chances for colon cancer to grow).

Excessive alcohol intake has been linked to an increased risk of colorectal cancer. Skip the alcohol and increase your water intake for better overall health.

4. Kick the Smoking Habit

Smoking is a major risk factor for many cancers, including colon cancer. Long-term smokers are more likely to develop colorectal polyps, which can turn into cancer over time. Quitting smoking isn’t easy, but it’s one of the best things you can do for your overall health.

5. Don’t Skip Your Colonoscopy!

Lifestyle changes are important, but regular screenings are the best way to prevent colon cancer. Colonoscopies detect precancerous polyps early—before they turn into cancer—and they can be removed. The American Cancer Society recommends starting screenings at age 45, or earlier if you have a family history of colon cancer or other risk factors.

Schedule your colonoscopy today

At Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C., we make colonoscopies easy, efficient, and affordable at our on-site surgical center. If you’re due for a screening, don’t wait—contact us today to schedule your colonoscopy appointment!

Beat the Trend of Early-onset Colon Cancer through Timely Screening

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Colorectal cancer (CRC) cases rising in young adults is a concerning global trend. The best way to beat the trend is to prevent and detect the disease early through timely screenings.

During National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, get informed, take action and spread awareness about this highly preventable disease.

Get Informed About Colorectal Cancer

In 2025, the American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates there will be about 107,320 new cases of colon cancer. They also expect around 46,950 new cases of rectal cancer in the United States.

About 10 percent of all colorectal cancer diagnoses are in individuals younger than 50. Data shows CRC rates in adults aged 40 to 49 years increased by nearly 15 percent over the past decade.

In a recent study, ACS researchers investigated contemporary colorectal cancer incidence trends in younger adults versus older adults worldwide. Data was compiled using the “Cancer Incidence in Five Continents Plus.” The research is published in The Lancet Oncology.

The study found that early-onset colorectal cancer (CRC) is increasing in 14 countries, including the U.S. Doctors define early onset as cancer in people younger than 50. The rate of early-onset CRC was highest in the U.S. and four other countries.

“This flagship study reveals that increasing rates of early-onset bowel cancer, affecting adults aged 25-49, is a global issue,” said Michelle Mitchell, chief executive of Cancer Research UK.

Hyuna Sung, PhD, lead author of the study, suggested more research of colorectal cancer trends and prevention methods is necessary.

“Ongoing efforts are essential to identify the additional factors behind these trends and to develop effective prevention strategies tailored to younger generations and local resources worldwide,” said Dr. Sung, ACS senior principal scientist, cancer surveillance research.

Take Action by Getting Screened at 45

Talking to your healthcare provider about screening is the first step to beat the trend of early-onset colorectal cancer.

Clinicians play a key role in colorectal cancer awareness, detection and prevention. Proactive steps may help reduce delays in diagnosis and decrease mortality rates for some patients.

“Although the rapid rise in CRC in young adults is alarming, we know we can beat the trend by educating our patients about the importance of screening along with paying attention to symptoms that could be a sign of colon cancer,” said AMSURG Medical Staff Lead Jay Popp, MD, MACG.

Common warning signs may include the following:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Blood in the stool
  • Change in bowel habits

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force advises people at average risk to undergo a baseline screening at age 45. If you have digestive symptoms that may be experienced with CRC, seek medical attention regardless of your age.

Scientists are unsure of exactly what causes colorectal cancer. Some studies link CRC to dietary habits, physical inactivity and excess body weight. Consult your doctor if you have risk factors like a family or personal history of CRC or polyps, ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease. You may need to be screened earlier than 45.

“Screening works!” Dr. Popp said. “Ask your healthcare provider about what screening test is best for you.”

Screening Options for Colon Cancer

Several screening tests can detect colorectal cancer. Colonoscopy is the only screening method that can detect and prevent the disease. During this procedure, you are under sedation while your gastroenterologist examines the entire length of your colon for polyps or abnormalities.

“Since almost all colon cancers begin as a small growth called a polyp, during screening colonoscopy these polyps can be identified and removed, thus preventing cancer from developing,” Dr. Popp said.

If you choose an alternate colon cancer screening and receive an abnormal result, you must follow up with a colonoscopy to determine the cause of the positive test.

Failing to follow up or delaying a colonoscopy may increase your risk of colon cancer. This may result in an advanced stage of the disease at diagnosis.

“When detected in its early stages, before it has had a chance to spread to other organs, colon cancer is beatable, with a five-year survival rate of 90 percent,” Dr. Popp said.

Most insurance plans provide coverage for a screening colonoscopy for patients 45 and older. Healthcare coverage varies, so call your provider to confirm you are eligible for a screening colonoscopy.

Spread Awareness About CRC

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States. The ACS estimates CRC will cause about 52,900 deaths this year.

In adults younger than 50, colorectal cancer is the number one cause of cancer death in men and the second in women.

Timely screening is key to survival.

An estimated 55 million adults between 45 and 85 are eligible for a colorectal cancer screening in the U.S. Yet, one-third of Americans are overdue for their screening.

Don’t delay in scheduling your preventive care. If you are 45 or older and unscreened, it is time to take action.

Getting screened may inspire others to do so. Encourage your friends and loved ones to get screened, too. It could save their lives.

Even if you are not a part of the screening demographic yet, you can help spread the message. Wear a blue ribbon or shirt on Dress in Blue Day (March 7) to spread awareness and honor those affected by colorectal cancer.

In March — and year-round — it’s important to prioritize your colon health. Make an appointment with your gastroenterologist for your first colorectal cancer screening or a follow-up colonoscopy. Talk to your doctor about how often you should get screened and which method is best for you. Together we can beat the trend!

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