Life is busy and your plate is full, but taking care of yourself is just as important as caring for others. A colorectal cancer (CRC) screening test is a simple step that could make a big difference in your future. Direct Access Colonoscopy makes scheduling your procedure easier.

Colon Cancer is Preventable

In adults younger than 50, colorectal cancer is the No. 1 cause of cancer death in men and the second in women.

The good news is CRC is both preventable and highly treatable when detected early. Experts recommend starting CRC screenings at age 45, if you are at average risk. If you have digestive symptoms, you should see your health care provider regardless of age.

A colonoscopy is the most efficient way to detect the disease early or even prevent cancer. If you choose other colon cancer screening methods and receive an abnormal result, you must follow up with a colonoscopy to determine the cause of the positive test.

What is Direct Access?

Career, family and the nonstop pace of life demands your full attention. Direct Access Colonoscopy is a simple and convenient way to schedule your colon cancer screening.

If you qualify, you don’t need to have a formal pre-procedure visit with a gastroenterologist or endoscopist. In fact, you do not meet the doctor until the day of the procedure.

Additionally, Direct Access Colonoscopy is covered by most health insurance plans.

How does Direct Access Work?

Prior to being scheduled for a colonoscopy, you will have a call with our center staff to review your medical history in detail.

If you have an uncomplicated medical history, are between 45 and 75 years old, and are in generally good health, you may be eligible for Direct Access.

Also, if you require a colonoscopy to evaluate a positive screening stool test, you may be eligible for Direct Access.

If certain health conditions are identified during the call with our center, an office visit will be required prior to the procedure.

Schedule Your Screening at Our ASC

For a colonoscopy, our Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC) makes it easy to get the care you need:

• Timely, efficient outpatient care
• Less waiting, more one-on-one attention
• Often more affordable than hospital procedures
• A safe, welcoming space designed with your comfort in mind

Find out if you are eligible for a Direct Access Colonoscopy.

Early detection saves lives. If you’re due for a colonoscopy or need a follow-up, don’t wait. Protect your health and schedule your screening today.

Ritu Nahar, MD, a board-certified gastroenterologist at the Specialty Surgical Center of North Brunswick, was featured as a subject matter expert in a recent online SELF magazine article.

In the article, entitled “If You Have Ulcerative Colitis, You May Want to Watch Out for This Type of Fiber,” Dr. Nahar discussed how insoluble fiber affects patients with this chronic inflammatory bowel disease.

Ulcerative colitis affects the colon lining and causes small sores, or ulcers, to form. Patients often experience symptoms including abdominal cramps and pain and persistent diarrhea.

In the article, Dr. Nahar explained that ulcerative colitis makes the colon “more sensitive to rough, bulky fibers,” like insoluble fiber found in the skins of many fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds and whole wheat flour.

Dr. Nahar discussed the differences in soluble and insoluble fiber and the benefits of each. She offered cooking tips to make insoluble fiber foods easier for patients to tolerate during or following an ulcerative colitis flare. She also noted the importance of balancing your intake of fiber and your gastrointestinal health.

“The goal is to balance fiber intake to support gut health without exacerbating inflammation,” Dr. Nahar told SELF.

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This article is designed for educational purposes only. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health concern or disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a health concern, you should consult your healthcare provider.

North Brunswick, NJ – Specialty Surgical Center of North Brunswick invites you to experience the exceptional care and inviting atmosphere of our entire facility. Known for excellence in healthcare, our center’s clean and welcoming environment underscores our dedication to patient comfort and care.

Take the Google 360 Tour

Discover the comprehensive care we offer through an immersive 360 virtual tour, meticulously captured by a certified Google 360 photographer. From the welcoming reception area to our state-of-the-art procedure rooms and tranquil recovery spaces, every detail is designed with your well-being in mind. Transparency is one of our core values, and we want you to see the quality-of-care patients receive every day. This virtual experience exemplifies our commitment to transparency, allowing you to explore our entire facility, reducing pre-visit anxiety and fostering trust.

Why Specialty Surgical Center of North Brunswick?

• Comprehensive and Inviting Facilities: Experience healthcare in an environment where cleanliness and comfort are paramount, from the lobby to the procedure rooms.
• Personalized Care: Our skilled professionals are dedicated to your unique health needs, ensuring a patient-centered approach throughout your visit.
• Informed Decisions: The virtual tour and detailed photography gallery offer insights into our center, promoting transparency and confidence in your healthcare choices.

At Specialty Surgical Center of North Brunswick, we blend unparalleled medical care with an environment that prioritizes your comfort and peace of mind. We invite you to discover the difference at our meticulously maintained facility.

Specialty Surgical Center of North Brunswick proudly recognizes Dr. Ritu Nahar, board-certified gastroenterologist, for her recent role as a panel expert at the New Jersey State Chapter of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) networking event, held on May 20.

The event brought together Indian-origin physicians from across the state for a meaningful evening that blended cultural connection with clinical education. Hosted by AAPI NJ President Dr. Sudha Nahar, the gathering focused on mentorship, medical collaboration, and community engagement.

As a panelist, Dr. Nahar shared her expertise in gastroenterology during thoughtful discussions on topics such as gastrointestinal bleeding and its management. The event also featured sessions on atrial fibrillation treatment options and anticoagulation strategies, underscoring the value of cross-specialty dialogue in improving patient outcomes.

Events like these highlight the essential role physician leaders play in advancing medical education, strengthening professional relationships, and promoting culturally inclusive care.

We commend Dr. Nahar for her dedication to clinical excellence and her continued contributions to both patient care and the broader medical community.

In a recent episode of Face to Face, ITV Gold sits down with Dr. Ritu Nahar, an esteemed gastroenterologist, for a candid conversation about digestive health, the latest in gastroenterology, and her approach to patient care. Dr. Nahar shares valuable insights into the importance of gut health and practical advice for maintaining a balanced lifestyle.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from Dr. Nahar!

We are excited to share that one of our gastroenterologists, Dr. Ritu Nahar, was recently interviewed on Becker’s Healthcare Podcast. In this episode, Dr. Nahar discusses:

• The impact of the obesity epidemic on digestive health
• The importance of consulting a gastroenterologist for persistent symptoms
• Advances in diagnosing and managing IBS
• Lifestyle changes to improve the quality of life for IBS sufferers

Listen to Dr. Nahar’s full interview here.

For more information about Dr. Nahar, visit her profile.