Colon Cancer

Overview

Colon cancer starts in the colon, also called the large intestine, which is the final portion of the digestive tract. Typically, colon cancer begins when noncancerous clumps of cells called polyps develop in the colon and then become cancerous over time.

Unfortunately, polyps usually do not create symptoms, so it is important to receive routine screenings to detect polyps before they become cancerous. There is treatment, such as surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy available to treat colon cancer. Some people may lump colon cancer into a type called colorectal cancer, which also includes cancer of the rectum.

 

Applicable Procedures

Colonoscopy
EMR

 

What is the prognosis for colon cancer?

Research shows that colon cancer is treatable, as the 5-year survival rate for localized colon cancer is 90 percent.

 

What is the best treatment for colon cancer?

The proper course of treatment for colon cancer depends upon the severity and size of the cancer. There are surgical treatments for both early and late-stage colon cancers. For example, if colon cancer is small, surgery may involve removing a polyp. Larger, more advanced stage colon cancer may require surgery to remove part of the colon. Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and targeted drug therapy are other treatment options. An oncologist can recommend the best treatment option for a particular case of colon cancer.

 

How can I reduce my risk of colon cancer?

Certain people may be at increased risk of colon cancer because of family history or certain digestive conditions like ulcerative colitis, but you can reduce your likelihood of developing colon cancer by limiting your alcohol intake, giving up smoking, getting plenty of exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and eating a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Screening is also an important part of prevention; regular colon cancer screenings are recommended for everyone age 50 and older, but should occur earlier for those with risk factors for colon cancer.

 

Common Symptoms

  • “I suddenly began to lose weight with no explanation, and I felt tired all the time and suffered from ongoing stomach pain and cramps.”
  • “I started to experience constipation, which is unusual for me, and I noticed that I was having blood in my stools.”
  • “In addition to non-stop abdominal pain and gas, I started to feel as if I never had a complete bowel movement.”

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What They Are Saying

bernard G.
Doctor was very knowledgeable and advised me what he thinks is the best treatment for me .
David L.
Everybody was very friendly!! Getting prep kit through the mail was quick and convient very helpful. I’ll be back in three years!!!
Ken M.
Dr Donat and his team performed my colonoscopy. They are highly professional and make this worthwhile procedure comfortable and informative. I’d certainly recommend them to my friends and family.
Randy D.
Great service. Thank you for making an unpleasant experience a bit more tolerable.
meshia E.
The staff is polite and friendly. Dr. Bakken is a very good doctor. She's very attentive, thorough and knowledgeable. Always going the extra mile to ensure you get the best medical treatment. Thanks!
Vickie E
Dr Wille and his entire staff are amazing! No one likes to talk about the test I had done…let alone go thru it. But they made everything so convenient and so easy!! I would absolutely recommend them. I’m 70+ so have had quite a few of these tests over the years. Dr Wille is by far the gentlest, thorough & best bedside manner around. You won’t go wrong with this place.
David U.
Dr. Quallich was great along with the entire staff. For not a very fun procedure I had a good experience.
Darlene H
Easy in & easy out, no having to wait 1/2 hour to see the doctor.
Tomicko
Your receptionist was so amazing and patient with me her customer service was over and beyond my technician or nurse tech that was in my room was very helpful very friendly and very compassionate. I can say more.
Richard S.
It was a great experience! Very friendly and professional!
Shawn L.
Quick and easy.. 1st experience and it went smooth.
John M.
Great!
Arlene M.
Everyone was polite and professional. They would listen to my concerns and respond in a courteous and knowledgeable manner.¹
Patricia G.
Happy to have met her and she will be my new Dr
Raniya A.
I’ve been a patient of Dr. Donat for about 20 years and I’ve always felt comfortable and have been treated so well with everyone on his staff. They’re friendly and very helpful with any questions or concerns I’ve had.
Sharon M.
The girl helping me in the room was very pleasant. Very intuitive. Very alert and right on top of everything. I thank her very much. She made the experience very nice. + That's it. Thank you goodbye . Dr. Syed was very pleasant. I enjoyed talking with her. I think that she has a new patient. Thank you, goodbye
Greg Van H.
Staff was great and so nice. Walked me through the process and took great care of me
Amy V.
I don't have one bad thing to say! From scheduling to making sure my order was faxed over, they didn't waste anytime. This can be a time consuming appointment and they did it efficiently and with kindness, most of all!
frank W.
Always a very professional staff and doctors.
Made to feel very comfortable and the whole procedure took 1 hour from sign in to check out.
robyn G.
Love Dr Balonga and Margaret!
marie S.
Awesome! From the time I scheduled, to the time my procedure was completed. Dr Donat and the staff were very caring and attentive Answered all my questions and made me feel at ease. So glad I have them to keep me healthy ! Thank you , Thank you!
Michelle B
Doctor Tocco and staff were so great. Doctor Tocco takes the time to listen and helps you feel better if you need to have anything done. I actually go in earlier then my appt that needed to have done. It was so nice to get in and out quickly . I would recommend them to anyone.
Cathy H.
Everyone was so pleasant and cheerful and kind. Very good experience.
Stephanie P.
Dr. B was very helpful and thorough
Jerome H.
Dr Nandi performed two procedures on me with precision and accuracy with excellent results he is very gifted I am so glad he is my Doctor.I highly recommend him to others for the same outcomes.
Brittany T.
Took me immediately, didn't have to wait. Dr came in pretty quickly after I saw the nurse. Took my concerns seriously and scheduled my procedure within 2 weeks.
Madeline H.
I have been a patient of Dr Weber for many years. Although the prep for the procedure isn’t very pleasant, once you enter the surgical center for the rest of the process is actually quite nice. The staff is warm, thought, and courteous. The facilities are pristine and the procedure itself is over before you know it. Dr Weber is knowledgeable, approachable, and personable.
Frank G.
Had a great experience! I was taken on time and each person was clear about what they were doing, how long it was going to take and what the next step was. Very professional staff!!
Janet S.
Great staff . Dr. Weber was a great listener.
Ceci G.
Staff very knowledgeable. Dr. Bakken always take time to talk to you and doesn't make you feel rushed.
Lenore V.
Great staff , enjoyed visit with the doctor!!!
Claudia S.
Super friendly, efficient staff. This place is beautifully run. I had an endoscopy with Dr. Bakken and was in and out in no time. She is very professional and knowledgeable. I felt well taken care of from the moment I arrived until the moment I left. Thank you to all for making something I wasn’t looking forward to into a pleasant experience!
Marilyn B.
Everyone was very caring and professional.
I was attended to right away and the doctor was wonderful. I would highly recommend this doctor and facility.
Teresa R.
Staff was fast efficient and kind. Dr. Donat was nice. Procedure was painless. Woke up quickly from anesthesia and able to go on with my day.(with some restrictions of course). All was well.
Sharyn C.
Staff very friendly & helpful. Love Dr. Wille
Susan Z.
Didn’t have to wait long to see the NP. Everyone was pleasant.
asmahan R.
Very professional and knowledgeable
Janet M.
Staff were very friendly and helpful. Dr Leonard Quallich called me after my colonoscopy which showed me how thorough and caring he is.
Nellie F.
Always know that I will be waited on promptly and very professionally. Dr. Donat is the very best and so glad I found him when I was first having stomach issues.
Jeannie R.
Dr. Donat took his time to listen attentively to me and answer all my questions. This was important to me as a patient. The staff was also very helpful and informative, especially Lisa. You can tell they care about their patients.
Michael W.
The staff, from doctor to receptionist were very personable, professional and caring for my needs. It isn't my first interaction and I expect follow up interactions to be likewise. Thanks and praise to all.
Kurt R.
From initial contact through post procedure care, Dr. Willie and his team are exceptional at patient care and education of the procedure being conducted, the pre-procedure prep, and results. This my second 10-year screening procedure with Dr. Willie and hope that he is still in practice 10 years from now for my next procedure. Well done and thank you!
Cora R.
Love Dr Quallich!! Always nice to see him. His bedside manner is wonderful. He just makes sense and he is funny! I always feel better after my visit with him. His staff is very pleasant, kind and they are so organized. God bless them all. 😊
Lisa B.
The CDH runs like a well oiled machine!
Sue G.
Easy process and great care.
Theresa O.
Dr.Saeed and her staff are iwonderful ! They are always informative and patience,.
Lori L.
Everything and everyone was terrific!
William M.
The staff and Dr Bologna was great and very helpful.
Farhat A.
I just had my first colonoscopy. The staff and nurses went to great lengths to protect my sense of modesty. They made sure I was comfortable the whole time. My anesthesiologist was wonderful. She told me exactly what to expect, and I felt no grogginess afterward. It was the best 15-minute nap I’ve had in a long time. Doctor Bakken was wonderful and very caring.
Henry R.
Dr. Wille is the best. Very knowledgeable and personable. Takes time to explain everything and answer all my questions. Thanks!
Jo S.
The staff at The Center for Digestive Health is very warm and welcoming; as well as pleasant, personable and professional. The office is bright and clean. Dr. Donat is an exceptional physician, carefully listening to you—his patient—and taking your concerns seriously. He answers your questions, and works to get to the bottom of your issues. I’ve been seeing Dr. Donat for years and he’s always provided helpful advice and successful treatments. My hat’s off to The Center for Digestive Health, its staff and Dr. Donat.
Steven
I had a great experience. The nurses and staff were friendly and cheerful and the doctor was skilled and professional. They were very organized and orderly. I would 100% recommend.
Peter S.
Love this place. Dr Bologna is excellent and my whole family goes to him. Office staff is wonderful too… keep it up
Deb G.
Number one service. Everything went very well. Everyone was very helpful and kind.
Laura L.
Love my doctor and everybody in the office. Would highly recommend this office CFDH
Larry T.
My appointment with Jennifer was informative and professional.
Angie J.
On time and efficient getting me ready for Endoscopy. Each member of the medical team were kind, caring, compassionate, and very professional. Dr. Wille is my favorite. I’ve been with this practice for 20+ years and have had numerous EGD’s as well as the routine colonoscopies. This is the team you want!
Carrie Z.
Everyone at the Center for Digestive Health is so nice and make you feel so comfortable. Dr. Willie is very nice and explains everything thoroughly. They provide very good care to every patient.
Carrie V.
Quick, efficient and pleasant
Deleecha D.
Everyone was so attentive, treated me like I was very important!!!! Made sure I was ok at all times!!!
M S.
Exceptional care was given at the Macomb Center for Digestive Health. Polite, respectful and knowledgeable staff from the front desk at reception to the nursing staff, anesthesia and of course physician. I felt that I was in extremely competent hands for my procedure and care.
Mary S.
Spoke to Dr Nandi’s nurse Margaret more
than once with questions. She couldn’t have more understanding or patient with me.
I have complete confidence in Dr. Nandi..he’s the best!
Debra A.
Thank you for your patient care and kindness. It made a difference in my visit.
Lori M.
Would recommend 100 percent. I had Dr. NANDI. Great dr.very informative. NURSES were soooo nice and worked professional. Office clean and a great overall experience. And they were on time with my appointment.
A S
Good office environment, professional and friendly staff.
Dave & C.
Very attentive, caring staff. Thank you!
Laura C.
Allison did all the steps to get me ready for my procedure. She was amazing to say the least. Nicole assisted with procedure and was great as well as the doctor. Actually everyone I interacted with was great. I would highly record this office
Mary Ann K.
I was so happy to sit and explain how my bowel was working and the difference between divaticlitis and divaticulois and my diet
Carolyn G.
Dr.Donat and his medical staff are cordial, professional and efficient. I have always had a positive experience there.
Rochelle C.
The staff was very helpful and professional. The Doctor (Bakken) was very knowledgeable & very detailed in her examination and gathering my personal information & family history & events. Great experience overall!
Patricia B.
I see Dr. Nandi and I am very pleased with the knowledge he has.
Jerry R.
All went very smoothly. Very professional and no waiting, prompt procedure.
Russ P.
Very friendly and competent staff.
K K
Great experience with staff and Dr. Bakken.
I usually see Nicolette VanMaldeghem in between visits with Dr. Bakken and she is excellent as well. I have nothing but good things to say about this practice.
Kat C.
Jennifer was great!
Cathy W.
From the pleasant staff to the wonderful and understanding Dr. Saeed ,I felt that my concerns and questions were heard and professionally answered. I would highly recommend using the Troy Center for Digestive Health.
david M.
Everything worked out great. The prep the time spent in procedure and recovery. I feel great and it was a good experience!
Sahar G.
Lakeisha was AMAZING, helpful , compassionate , and sooo kind to talk to, she understood the urgency and was able to get my dad in to see a doc immediately!’n thank you so much , Lakeisha!!!!
shannon G.
I really liked the office staff and Dr Bakken. Everyone is very nice and helpful. Made the whole experience go smoothly. Everything was explained to me before and after my procedure.
Teresa H.
Staff was very nice, the Dr Bakken was very knowledgeable. And seem to have idea of how to care for my problems. Look forward to my next visit.
D A
Professional without being too ridged, which makes patients feel comfortable
email S.
Great staff. My colitis is much better.
Kit D.
Very professionally run. Is now my go to gastroenterologist. PA very knowledgeable and very pleasant.
Thomas A L.
very nice and helpful staff awesome Doctors, and PA. very caring and concerning about the problem.
Charlotte T.
Dr. BARREN WAS VERY PROFESIONAL AND INFORMATIVE OF MY CONDITION SHE SET TREATMENT IMMEDIATELY I STARTED GETTING PHONE CALLS THE VEREY NEXT DAY HER STAFF WAS VERY HELPFUL AND POLITE
Ron J.
Great visit, they went through my medical history very positive
gust L.
Very polite and comfortable atmosphere and knowledgeable professional doctors ❤️
Lynne M.
I got excellent care during my entire colonoscopy procedure; however, I was asked to bring in a list of medications and I took the time to make it but was never asked for it at the check in desk. I left it and my purse with my driver, when I got inside the medical assistant asked me about what medications I took. I could not remember then all or how to spell them. She said something like "never mind; we will just skip it." I am sorry but I think that is important to my procedure and records with you and should have been handled more professionally.
Kathy A.
Dr. Donat is truly one of a kind!! He’s so sweet! He makes you feel like you’re a friend, he makes things very comfortable and understandable as well! His knowledge is amazing! If you are looking for a Gastroenterologist, you need to make your appointment with him!! He is the BEST!!!
Nancy P.
From start to finish, everyone was personable, professional & very kind
Shirlee H.
Appt was right on time and everything went very quickly. Everyone was very professional but also very kind. Doctor spent as much time as needed with me. My favorite doctor! Would highly recommend this practice.
John W.
The Center for Digestive Health and Dr. Wille have been taking great care of me for some time. I have nothing but high praise for the entire organization.
Stacey W.
The staff were efficient and kind. The wait time was nominal. Dr. Wille was great, very clear in his explanations and the plans moving forward. Highly recommend!
michael R.
I am having moderate gut issues. I made an appointment with Karen. I followed the information Karen shared with me on how to improve my gut health. I followed Karen’s instructions and I am improving.
michael B.
The staff was very pleasant and explained everything that was going to happen for my colonoscopy.
I was there just about 1 hours total
Received a call in the afternoon asking how I was doing. I would recommend to my friends.
John E.
I had an excellent experience both before and during my recent visit. Everyone involved was courteous and helpful and all my concerns were addressed an an appointment for necessary testing was scheduled. My initial office appointment was with Jenny Willie, NP.
Nancy T.
Friendly and experienced staff! In and out quickly!!
Gwendolyn J.
Beautiful people doing a beautiful job!
Karrie R.
This was a great place to go for my 1st colonoscopy. Everyone was very nice, from the reception staff to the doctors & nurses. The procedure went smooth. Would definitely recommend this office!
Jeanette Y.
Excellent caring staff, timely appointments. I felt they knew my history well and made good care options.
Patty P.
Dr. Abadir listened attentively and is proactive with issues. The appointment was on time and efficient, as was the office staff. Very professional and I am happy with both the doc and office.
Susan C.
Very pleasant and professional experience. Wouldn’t go anywhere else.
carolyn S.
Dr. Desai put me totally at ease, and I could only dream of being as friendly and efficient as the scheduling receptionist was.
Michael K.
Courteous staff.promptly saw me and listen to my concerns. Provider was attentive.
Natalie M.
Such a phenomenal experience from the moment I walked to the front desk for processing until I was escorted out the facility! The ENTIRE staff was completely amazing & very personable. Everyone who assisted with my procedure was truly comforting, thorough in explaining their role with me & ensured I was good at all times! Dr Donat came referred by my primary physician & I’m thankful for that. Continue the GREAT work, guys! Highly recommend!
Kevin G.
Dr. Willie is one of the best. Always good when I talk to him. Best in the biz.
Carolyn T.
My appointment was on time everything went along efficiently. My PA was informative and interested in me.
George K.
I had a procedure this morning with Dr. Nandi at the Surgical Centers of Michigan located on Investment Drive. Dr. Nandi as always was the most professional and caring doctor that I have encountered.
But, what impressed me was the staff in the office. The TEAM (receptionist, the nurse who checked me and made me ready for the procedure, Anesthesiologist and nurse in the procedure room, the recovery room nurse, the PA who called me later in the day to check-up on me) showed me such care and compassion. It made me feel as if I was the most important patient that they would encounter.
It is obvious that these professionals love what they are doing. They love helping others. That made all the difference to me.
Thank you.
Theresa O.
As a new patient, I found everyone helpful, knowledgeable and kind. 😊
Marcia L.
All staff was very kind and helpful. My visit with Dr Bakken was right on time. She made things very comfortable and didn't rush through our appointment.
David B.
The staff was very friendly. My procedure went extremely well and I was informed by everyone involved as to what to expect during thr entire process.
Pat J.
I found the staff compassionate and helpful and was given an appointment with PA for my initial concerns. She accommodated me via Telehealth and we covered a lot of territory. She brought sharp focus to next steps, and I was satisfied and grateful.
Jeremy S.
Great team from top down. Caring staff ensures great care and comfort. Doctors are polite, professional, and respectful.
Susan B.
Everyone is so nice from the beginning to the end of my procedure. Dr. Willie is great. 😊
chris C.
Dr. Bologna is a brilliant doctor! He correctly diagnosed my problem and provided an effective treatment plan. I was back on my feet in no time.
Don S.
Dr. Willie and his staff were great and thorough throughout my whole procedure, highly recommend
Barbara S.
Dr. Donat and his staff are friendly, put you are ease and are very professional.
Marcia L.
My appointment was for 3:30 . At 3:33 my name was called. Dr. Willie and his staff are the best.
Pamela C.
I have been going to Dr. Baakan for my colonoscopy and digestive issues for nearly 2 decades now and wouldn’t go anywhere else. She is always calm and attentive and has great patience in explaining issues. The office staff is friendly and the office does an excellent job sending appointment reminders.
Tim H
Doctor and staff were very efficient. Appointment was quick. I was in and out in about 25min. I would recommend Doctor.
Cassie M.
Wonderful front office staff. Diligent with follow ups and easy to schedule. Super kind too!
Elinor S.
Dr Wille did his usual wonderful job of checking my symptoms and gave me good advice regarding my concern. Thank you doc!
Jeffrey M.
Great Staff. Got me in and out with no issues.
Greg S
Dr. Anezi Bakken has been my GI doctor for over 20 years and she has always been friendly, caring and professional throughout the many procedures I have had with her. Additionally, the highly trained staff at Troy Gastroenterology have always made me feel comfortable while checking in and getting prepared for the procedure.
Tom S
I was weighed and the taken to an exam room promptly where BP and temp were taken. Dr. Wille came in shortly after and I was on my way home 20 minutes after my appointment time. Dr. Wille explained test results, discussed my situation, and ordered additional testing, and did not rush me at all.
Sean B.
Dr. Wille and his NP’s are Top Notch with regards to taking care of my gastrointestinal issues. I’ll be honest, I did have a bad experience with another Dr in the group and will never see him again.
Regarding Dr. Wille, he was my father’s GI doc and helped him live some 20 years after his colon cancer. As for me, I’m in my early 60’s and Dr. Wille is well aware of my family history, taking great care of me and has a great bedside manner.
I met Nicolette this week for the 1st time and she was easy to talk to (even if it is/was a difficult conversation).
Suzanne A.
The staff is kind and caring. The facility if clean and well kept. Love Dr Nandi and the staff.
FrannyJ J.
First I would like to say, staff was very friendly !! Dr. Donat was extremely nice and receptive. He listened and asked the right questions to describe my issues. I have had my problem for sometime now and I was VERY afraid of the procedure to diagnose my issues. DR. Donat made me feel comfortable and eased my fear. Not to mention my wait time was minimal.
Cecily R.
The Center for Digestive Health/Surgical Center is a great choice for any patient wanting the best care possible. Staff is professional, approachable and competent.
Cindi H.
Organized , timely, kind staff & great doctors and nurses.
Elaine M.
I was surprised I didn't have to wait very long to see the Dr because the last place I went to kept me waiting about 2 hours. Very positive experience.
Lolita M.
It was a calm and peaceful experience.
June W.
Staff communication was excellent as what was happening and provided support when needed. Felt heard.
Pamela H.
Jennifer was awesome and very thorough with my appointment. I am so glad I found her having just moved to Michigan from Tennessee!
Gary N.
Everyone was very efficient and professional.
Rod P.
Dr willie is the best
Gary T.
Telehealth meeting with Jennifer was very convenient and was a consultation so no need to go to the office anyway. Jennifer was knowledgeable and answered all my questions thoughtfully and comprehensively. Good news is diagnosis was not too serious and she offered advice on diet and OTC medications to limit occurance of future episodes of acid reflux.
Jon C.
It went off without a hitch. It was like clockwork, very happy with the whole situation..
Susan V.
Dr Balogna and the entire staff were professional and helpful.
Melissa K.
I have been a patient of Dr.Bakken’s for many years. She - and everyone I have encountered at the entire practice - are professional, kind, and caring. I trust them and highly recommend to friends and family.
Richard L.
The staff is so nice and helpful.
carla C.
I’ve had several colonoscopy and never had such a pleasant experience as here (made this procedure a lot easier to endure). This was my first visit here and the entire staff were very helpful and the rooms were so clean..individual room for prep and recovery.Dr. Willie was very kind and very pleasant . If I could give “10” stars I definitely would
patrick F.
The PA was very knowledgeable and treated me like I was her only patient for the day.
jeff H.
Everyone was great thank you very much
Kathie S.
Love Dr Quallich. He has done so much for me.
April L.
Clear and professional staff
Don J.
I had my Colonoscopy done yesterday. With Dr Partha S Nandi the doctor and the nurses couldn’t have been any more helpful. Everyone was really nice and helpful. I would recommend Dr Nandi and his staff to anyone.
Alex S.
Dr Quallich and his staff are amazing. They are so kind and compassionate. He truly cares about his patients and their wellbeing.
Madhavan D.
Clear instructions, frequent reminders and professional and friendly service
Shelly N.
Very efficient, wait time was very minimal. All staff members with whom I interacted were extremely professional and personable.
Lawrence W.
Excellent and carefully focused treatment
Jason H.
They are very professional and made me feel very comfortable.
K. Y.
My second time under the care of Gastroenterologist, Dr. Anezi Bakken and her staff, and my second experience, like my first 10 years ago, was extremely thorough and highly professional. I recommend this doctor and facility without hesitation.
Ken M.
Excellent experience. Wonderful and friendly staff and service. Highly recommend.
Allen B.
Dr Wiley and his staff were very helpful. I would definitely recommend your office.
Scout L.
Exceptional care and service from a very caring, kind and supportive staff, from the Drs to the receptionist. Highly recommend this practice.
Carol P.
The staff and Doctor were
extremely kind, friendly and professional. They made a very anxious time very comfortable.
Lisa M.
This was such a nice doctor’s ‘s office. Everyone was very happy. They answered all my questions. My procedure went very well and I really liked that. They let your loved ones stay with you through the whole thing. I recommend Dr. Donat If I could give them 10 stars, I would!
Francisco N.
Appointment was on time. Dr. Willie’s PA bright, attentive , professional.
Andrzej S.
Dr Bologna and his staff are friendly and professional. They listen are knowledgable and caring. Would highly recommend
Nancy K.
Jennifer is terrific. She listened well to all my concerns and answered everything I asked. She is very knowledgeable and I never felt rushed even though she was the only Dr/NP in the office that day. She gives different treatment options and genuinely cared about my situation. Thank you Jennifer!
Marylou M.
Very nice and pleasant doctor. Didn't have to wait, my appointment was on time.
brenda c
After seeing 7 doctors I felt so good leaving this appointment. The doctor was very thorough and explained everything to me. Loved her.
Ollie B.
The overall atmosphere of the office was very pleasant. The staff and Dr. Desai were friendly and professional. Highly recommended!
Theresa M.
I am so thankful to Dr Quallich and all the staff who really took great care of me while having my procedure’s yesterday
Rae S.
Dr.Bakken was great! Staff was very nice, they are my go to.
Janet M.
Staff were very friendly and helpful. Dr Leonard Quallich called me after my colonoscopy which showed me how thorough and caring he is.
meshia E.
The staff is polite and friendly. Dr. Bakken is a very good doctor. She's very attentive, thorough and knowledgeable. Always going the extra mile to ensure you get the best medical treatment. Thanks!
Stacey W.
The staff were efficient and kind. The wait time was nominal. Dr. Wille was great, very clear in his explanations and the plans moving forward. Highly recommend!
asmahan R.
Very professional and knowledgeable

Our Doctors

We’re proud of our team here at Digestive Health Institute. Our health care providers include some of the very best colorectal surgeons, gastroenterologists and physician assistants. To learn more about our qualified team of specialists, please visit our providers page.

Anezi E. Bakken MD, MS

Sante D. Bologna MD, FACP

M. Emin Donat MD, FRCPC

Partha S. Nandi

Leonard G. Quallich III MD

Jack Tocco DO

John R. Weber MD

Richard T. Wille MD

Tusar Desai MD

Aalia Saeed, MD

FAQs

What happens during my first visit?
If you are a new patient, you can expect to have a complete physical exam. You will also be asked detailed questions about your current problems and your past medical history, your current medications, allergies, your family history and other pertinent medical information. If you are taking medications, please bring a completed medical history form with you to your appointment. Once the physician has reviewed your medical information and completed the physical examination, a plan of care will be developed. You may need to be seen again in the office, be referred back to your family physician for follow-up care, or require additional testing. If additional tests are needed, we will assist you in scheduling these tests.
What if I need to schedule an endoscopic procedure?

An endoscopic procedure allows the physician to visualize a part of your gastrointestinal tract with a special instrument called an endoscope. If your family physician has ordered testing, you will be contacted by telephone by one of our staff members. If a physician orders testing and you are in the office, the procedure can generally be scheduled during the course of your visit. You will be given a date, time, and location for the test, as well as written instructions telling you how to prepare for the test. If you have any questions about the procedure, please feel free to ask one of our staff members or the physician.

How do I get test results?

We ask that you wait 10 to 14 days before contacting us for results. Often results come from several different sources. This information needs to be compiled and reviewed by your physician before you can be appropriately advised. 

What insurances do you accept?

We accept payment from most insurance companies including Medicare, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Blue Care Network, Physicians Health Plan, Cofinity, Sparrow Professional Health Network, Medicaid, McLaren, Health Plus, and several others. Accepted insurances are subject to change at any time without notice.

If your insurance requires an authorization from your primary care physician, you may be asked to assist us in obtaining this authorization.

All patients are responsible for all copays and deductibles at the time of service.

If you have any questions regarding your benefits or insurance coverage, please contact our Billing Department at 248-844-9710.

What if I need to contact the doctor?

To contact your doctor during business hours please call our main number 248-844-9710. If you have an urgent need to speak with the doctor after hours, you will be rerouted to our after hours answering service, and your doctor will be paged. In the case of a medical emergency please proceed directly to the nearest hospital emergency room.

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3 reasons to see a gastrointestinal specialist when you turn 45

A gastrointestinal specialist is someone who specializes in the gastrointestinal tract. The gastrointestinal tract involves a pathway that starts at the mouth and ends at the anus. The organs within the gastrointestinal tract are those that function mostly for...

The Benefits of Water for Digestion

The Benefits of Water for Digestion

Digestion is a process that, when running smoothly, can help keep the rest of your body in good condition too. It’s an important component of your overall health. There are several different ways that the digestive system can be well maintained, and this can be helped...

Do I Need an Endoscopy for Acid Reflux?

Do I Need an Endoscopy for Acid Reflux?

An endoscopy is a procedure that is typically used to examine an individual’s digestive tract. It is a non-surgical procedure that involves a tube with a video camera attached to it, called an endoscope, that is used to examine the inside of a cavity in the body. An...

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