Best Gastroenterologists in Peoria

Introduction to Gastroenterology in Peoria

Definition of gastroenterology

Gastroenterology is a medical specialty focused on the digestive system and its disorders. This field encompasses the study, diagnosis, and treatment of conditions affecting the gastrointestinal tract, which includes the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, rectum, pancreas, gallbladder, bile ducts, and liver.

Gastroenterologists in Peoria are equipped to handle a wide range of digestive issues, from common problems like acid reflux and irritable bowel syndrome to more complex conditions such as inflammatory bowel diseases, liver disorders, and gastrointestinal cancers.

Importance of selecting the right gastroenterologist

Choosing the right gastroenterologist is an important decision that can significantly influence your digestive health outcomes. In Peoria, patients have access to a diverse group of qualified gastroenterologists, each with their own areas of expertise and approach to patient care.

A skilled gastroenterologist not only provides accurate diagnoses and effective treatments but also plays a key role in preventive care. They can offer guidance on maintaining digestive health, recommend appropriate screening tests, and help manage chronic conditions to improve your overall quality of life.

Overview of Gastroenterologist Selection Process in Peoria

Factors to consider when choosing a gastroenterologist

Credentials and board certifications

• Review of American Board of Internal Medicine certifications
• Importance of specialized gastroenterology training

Experience and specializations

• Years of practice in gastroenterology
• Specific areas of focus within digestive health

Patient reviews and ratings

• Analysis of star ratings from healthgrades.com
• Consideration of the number of patient reviews

Hospital affiliations

• Importance of access to quality medical facilities
• Consideration of hospital reputation and resources

Resources for finding gastroenterologists in Peoria

Online directories and review sites

• Utilization of healthgrades.com for comprehensive doctor information
• Exploration of other reputable medical review websites

Referrals from primary care physicians

• Importance of professional recommendations
• Leveraging existing medical relationships for referrals

Local medical associations and networks

• Contacting Peoria Medical Society for gastroenterologist recommendations
• Exploring Illinois Gastroenterology Group resources

Top-Ranked Gastroenterologists in Peoria

Dr. Terry Baldwin

Overview

• Highest-rated gastroenterologist in Peoria
• 5.0-star rating based on 23 patient reviews
• Male physician with English language proficiency

Contact Information

• Phone: (309) 672-4980
• Profile available on Healthgrades

Practice Details

• No specific board certifications listed
• No hospital affiliations mentioned in the data

Dr. Jaymon Patel

Qualifications

• Board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine
• 4.9-star rating from 24 patient reviews
• Male physician fluent in English

Contact Information

• Phone: (309) 672-4980
• Healthgrades profile available for more information

Expertise

• Specializes in Gastroenterology
• No specific hospital affiliations listed

Dr. Donald Penn Jr

Professional Background

• Board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine
• 4.8-star rating based on 35 patient reviews
• Male gastroenterologist proficient in English

Practice Information

• Contact number: (309) 672-4980
• Additional details available on Healthgrades

Patient Feedback

• High number of reviews indicating extensive experience
• Consistently positive patient ratings

Dr. Eliathamby Kuganeswaran

Credentials

• Board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine
• 4.8-star rating from 17 patient reviews
• Male physician with English language proficiency

Contact Details

• Reachable at (309) 672-4980
• Profile on Healthgrades for more information

Specialty Focus

• Dedicated gastroenterology practice
• No specific hospital affiliations mentioned

Dr. Scott Wu

Professional Profile

• Board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine
• 4.1-star rating based on 37 patient reviews
• Male gastroenterologist fluent in English

Appointment Information

• Contact number: (309) 672-4903
• Further details available on Healthgrades profile

Patient Feedback

• Highest number of reviews among top-rated gastroenterologists
• Solid rating indicating consistent patient satisfaction

Additional Resources for Choosing a Gastroenterologist

Questions to ask potential doctors

Experience with specific conditions

• Inquire about their experience treating your particular digestive issue
• Ask about their success rates and treatment approaches

Approach to treatment

• Discuss their philosophy on conservative vs. aggressive treatment
• Ask about their use of latest technologies and techniques in gastroenterology

Understanding insurance and coverage

In-network vs. out-of-network providers

• Check if the gastroenterologist is in your insurance network
• Understand the cost implications of choosing an out-of-network doctor

Verifying coverage for specific procedures

• Contact your insurance provider to confirm coverage for common gastroenterological procedures
• Discuss potential out-of-pocket expenses with the doctor's office

Preparing for your first appointment

Medical history documentation

• Compile a comprehensive list of your medical history
• Include any previous digestive issues and treatments

List of current medications and symptoms

• Prepare a detailed list of all current medications and supplements
• Document your symptoms, including frequency and severity