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Endoscopy and Colonoscopy
Endoscopy and Colonoscopy Services at Brown University Health
Your Digestive Health Matters
Your digestive system plays a vital role in your overall health, yet it is something many people find difficult to talk about, even in a medical setting. At Brown University Health, we provide expert, compassionate care focused on helping you feel comfortable, informed, and confident in your health.
What We Do
We offer safe, accurate, and comfortable endoscopy and colonoscopy services to evaluate and support your gastrointestinal (GI) health.
Why Early Detection Matters
Digestive symptoms are often easy to ignore, but they can be early signs of more serious conditions. Medical attention at the onset through screening or evaluation can lead to earlier diagnosis, more effective treatment, and even prevention of diseases like colorectal cancer. With rates rising, especially among younger adults, prioritizing your gastrointestinal health has never been more important. If something does not feel right, or if you are due for routine screening, our team is here to help you take that next step with confidence.
Care You Can Trust
Whether you are here for routine screening or are having symptoms such as abdominal pain, reflux, or changes in bowel habits, we are committed to delivering personalized care with clinical excellence and a patient-centered approach.
Learn More About Our Services
To better understand the services we provide, it is helpful to know:
What is a gastrointestinal (GI) tract and how does it work?
The GI tract is the group of organs that help your body digest food and absorb nutrients. It starts at the mouth and includes the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine (colon), and ends at the rectum. As food moves through this system, your body breaks it down, takes in vitamins and nutrients, and removes waste. Keeping your GI tract healthy is important because it plays a key role in your energy, comfort, and overall well-being.
What is a gastroenterologist and when should I see one?
A gastroenterologist is a doctor who specializes in the digestive system, including the stomach, intestines, liver, and colon. They diagnose, treat, and help prevent conditions that affect digestion and overall gut health.
You may be referred to a gastroenterologist if you have symptoms like stomach pain, heartburn, or changes in bowel habits, or if you need procedures such as an endoscopy or colonoscopy to identify the cause of your symptoms.
If you are in need of a gastroenterologist, please see a full list of all our providers.
What are endoscopy and colonoscopy procedures?
Endoscopy and colonoscopy are procedures doctors perform to examine your digestive tract.
An endoscopy looks at the upper GI tract (the esophagus, stomach, and beginning of the small intestine) using a thin, flexible tube with a camera.
A colonoscopy examines the colon and rectum in a similar way.
These procedures help doctors diagnose causes of symptoms like bleeding, pain, or changes in bowel habits, and allow for testing, such as biopsies, when needed. Depending on your symptoms or preventative screening needs, your doctor may recommend one or both.
What should I expect when preparing for an endoscopy or colonoscopy?
Preparation for an endoscopy or colonoscopy helps ensure your doctor gets the clearest, most accurate results.
Fasting
You will likely need to stop eating and drinking for several hours before your procedure.
Bowel Preparation (for Colonoscopy)
You may be asked to follow a special diet and take a prescribed solution to clean out your colon.
Medications
Your care team will let you know if you should adjust or pause any medications before the procedure.
Day of the Procedure
You will receive instructions about arrival time and what to bring. Most patients receive sedation to help them stay comfortable and relaxed.
After the Procedure
You will need someone to drive you home, and you can usually return to normal activities within a day.
Your Brown Health care team will provide clear, step-by-step instructions and is available to answer any questions to help you feel prepared and at ease.
What are prep instructions for procedures at the Brown Health Medical Group Endoscopy Center?
If your procedure is scheduled at the Brown Health Medical Group Endoscopy Center at 62 Amaral Street in East Providence, instructions for your specific procedure are available on our website.
If your procedure is scheduled elsewhere, contact your provider for instructions.