Hiatal Hernia

A hiatal hernia describes what happens when the upper portion of your stomach bulges through the diaphragm, which is the large muscle separating the chest from the abdomen. There is a small opening in the diaphragm, called the hiatus, and the esophagus passes through this opening before it connects to the stomach. When the stomach pushes through this opening and into the chest, hiatal hernia is the result.

If you have a minor hiatal hernia, you may never know. Larger hiatal hernias, on the other hand, can cause noticeable symptoms.

What causes hiatal hernia?

Hiatal hernia is a result of weakened muscles, which allow the stomach to bulge through the diaphragm. This can be caused by aging or injury from trauma or surgery. Other potential causes of hiatal hernia include being born with an abnormally large hiatus or suffering from intense pressure from vomiting, coughing, straining during bowel movements, or lifting heavy objects.

Is a hiatal hernia dangerous?

While it sounds serious, a hiatal hernia actually doesn’t cause symptoms in most cases. Many people who experience a hiatal hernia won’t need treatment.

What sort of treatment is used for hiatal hernia in cases where treatment is necessary?

If you have ongoing symptoms like acid reflux, you may require medications or surgery to treat hiatal hernia. Your doctor may prescribe medications to neutralize stomach acid, reduce acid production, or block the production of acid. If medication does not improve symptoms or if you have serious complications, such as significant inflammation or narrowing of the esophagus, your doctor may perform surgery. For example, surgery can allow your doctor to pull the stomach back down into the abdomen and reduce the size of the opening in the diaphragm.

Common Symptoms

  • “I had symptoms of acid reflux, and it felt like I was regurgitating food back into my mouth.”
  • “I experienced heartburn, and I was having trouble swallowing food.”
  • “I had chest pain and shortness of breath.ausea and vomiting.”

Sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hiatal-hernia/symptoms-causes/syc-20373379

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What They Are Saying

Lawrence W.
Excellent and carefully focused treatment
James B.
Dr. Donat and his staff were very professional and thorough. I appreciated their humor and thoughtfulness. I was out in less than an hour after having colonoscope and Endo scope and the recovery.
Joel ,
Great experience, friendly staff, quick turnaround.
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.
Bryan C.
Everyone was super friendly and professional, from the check-in gal to the intake nurse to the anesthesiologist to the doctor made a difficult procedure somewhat enjoyable if that’s possible
Big B.
Very professional and efficient.
Kathy R.
Noelle Maude is truly the only GI Healthcare provider that has listened to my symptoms and worked with me to improve them, rather than just giving me another pill to try.
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.
Robin R.
Dr Weber instills confidence and the office staff are very kind. The pre-op nurses had me laughing, which made me much less nervous before my colonoscopy. The scope was fast and painless. 5 stars for the whole procedure!!
Erica L.
Very excellent experience here. Nursing, front desk staff, snd all doctors were great, informative and helpful
Lori L.
Everything and everyone was terrific!
Danielle W.
Very professional and prompt awesome 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.
Dan P.
I was extremely well taken care of and very well informed quickly of my results. I would highly recommend Dr. Donat and his excellent staff.
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.
A S
Good office environment, professional and friendly staff.
Robert U.
Courteous professional staff and capable experts.
Ana Andrade M.
Everything was perfect since our arrival. Reception, Nurses, Anesthesiologist and Doctor were incredibly gentle and careful.
Karla R.
My experience from the initial interview to the discharge was pleasant and everyone made an effort to be informative and provide any need I might express.
Dennis S.
Everything was great very smooth progress and it was nice to get a follow up phone call i would recommend dr Webber he was great my second time with him.
Tim H
Doctor and staff were very efficient. Appointment was quick. I was in and out in about 25min. I would recommend Doctor.
gust L.
Very polite and comfortable atmosphere and knowledgeable professional doctors ❤️
Jeff B
Everything was good?
Robert Shefferly (.
Office staff if very friendly and professional. My appointment was on time with Dr. Willie who is down to earth and take this time with you.
Jenny H.
Dr. Bologna was very professional with great bedside manners. All the staff was very friendly. I was treated with respect.
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.
Jim P.
All the employees were fantastic polite and get a wonderful job. Highly record record record. Recommend them to go there for any Prit. Does.
Paul B.
" Down to a science" best describes" the fluid Ness of this office.
I was apprehensive about this procedure, I am 80 next month, but everything went like clock work, friendly staff! However.....one aspect stands out......its VERY UNCOMFORTABLE in the treatment areas as they keep the thermostat on 58! So cold it was hard to start my IV as my arms/ skin were FRISTED
Rod P.
Dr willie is the best
Larry T.
My appointment with Jennifer was informative and professional.
DENNIS M.
Easy Appointment with physician assistant, who is capable and knowledgeable about my medical history and needs.
Michael K.
Courteous staff.promptly saw me and listen to my concerns. Provider was attentive.
Thomas A L.
very nice and helpful staff awesome Doctors, and PA. very caring and concerning about the problem.
Steve C.
Staff was professional, caring, and polite.
Patricia B.
I see Dr. Nandi and I am very pleased with the knowledge he has.
Rick S.
The entire staff was courteous and made my visit as comfortable as possible. Also, I’m enjoying reading his “Ask Dr. Nandi” book.
Allen J.
I was completely in awe if the service and attention that I received as a new patient from another hospital. Everyone from the receptionist who scheduled my initial appointment to Everyone I met including the doctor were attentive caring. I would definitely recommend the Center for Digestive Health to anyone seeking a first or second opinion.

Thank you all so very much!
Allen Jefferson Ed.D, MS
Leeann P.
Staff and Dr Bologna were professional and pleasant ! I have never had any issues with him or his staff!
Nancy M.
Muy puntuales y muy profesionales gracias
Edie P.
Professional and on time
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!
Dianne K.
Punctual, very Professional & the staff was very Friendly & helpful
I would highly recommend
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!!!!
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.
Nathan W.
Check in process was easy and efficient! My procedure went with out a hitch & I was made very comfortable which eased any nerves I had.
david S.
Very efficient , seamless experience. Dr. Donat and his staff did a great job
asmahan R.
Very professional and knowledgeable
Sharyn C.
Staff very friendly & helpful. Love Dr. Wille
don G.
The staff and Doctor are very friendly and knowledgeable to their process. They have it down. Procedure was very quick and painless.
Fran E.
When told 20 minutes for precision up and lower exam totally awesome. I felt like I was out for hours nope.Thank you Dr Donat and team
Maude B.
Upon entering, the staff at the desk were very personable and patient. Met with Dr Eille who explained my upcoming procedure in detail as well as taking time to answer any questions I had.
Elinor S.
Dr Wille did his usual wonderful job of checking my symptoms and gave me good advice regarding my concern. Thank you doc!
Theresa O.
As a new patient, I found everyone helpful, knowledgeable and kind. 😊
Ellen M.
Seen quickly and issuse addressed
rosann K.
I really appreciate Dr. Nandi. He really listens and was able to do an endoscopy and resolve my problems.
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.
elizabeth Z.
Nicolette the PA is amazing! 🤩 So appreciate her time and courtesy while listening. She goes above and beyond!
Linda B.
I would highly recommend using Center for Digestive Health/ Surgical Center of Michigan. The staff is kind and compassionate. Dr. Weber did a great job.
ginnie P.
I have had Endoscopy with Dr. Nandi twice now and both times I was impressed with his professionalism along with his bedside manner. He has a great sense of humor that made me comfortable. The procedure was done in a timely manner and the staff was awesome!!
Johneric S.
Fast and efficient
Ollie B.
The overall atmosphere of the office was very pleasant. The staff and Dr. Desai were friendly and professional. Highly recommended!
Marcia L.
My appointment was for 3:30 . At 3:33 my name was called. Dr. Willie and his staff are the best.
Carrie V.
Quick, efficient and pleasant
James K.
I like to thank you for making relax for this procedure.Everybody was so kind and caring.Dr Q was great to speak to after procedure.The nurses were A-1.Thank you James Klenner.
Joann K.
excellent experience with PA Noelle. very thorough andd good advice.
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.
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).
tina K.
Very professional place I had procedure at macomb office excellent service from start to finish
Richard B.
The staff is both highly competent and cheerful! My procedures went quickly, painlessly, and I was surrounded by smiling faces the entire time! I highly recommend them for any of your GI issues.
Dawn N.
I love love this office and the staff. I personally have been a patient of Dr. Emin Donat since my early 20's. I am now turning 50 this September. He is so kind and caring. His patients are priority. He is so kind. Willing to listen and address your problems. He never makes you feel like he needs to rush onto the next patient. If you need to have any Gi issues addressed go see my friends at the Center For Digestive Health. Anyone of the Doctors are amazing.
Pauline F.
My appointment was with Dr. bologna he took his time with me. He wasn’t in any rush. He explained everything so I understood was very impressed with him and he put me at ease. I highly recommend him.
D A
Professional without being too ridged, which makes patients feel comfortable
Carol M.
Very friendly staff.
Susan V.
Dr Balogna and the entire staff were professional and helpful.
Jeanne D.
I was very nervous to have a scope done, but Dr. Weber and his team made me feel much better. Even a joke or two.
CE U.
On time and very efficient
Mcd
Staff was super kind and explained everything. Love Dr. Willie, I was nervous and he was very calming and answered all of my questions. I was seen at my appointment time, no wait.
Suzanne H
The staff and Dr Willie were excellent!! More importantly on time!
Maureen J.
They are the best. Organized, professional and pain free.
Jeanette Y.
Excellent caring staff, timely appointments. I felt they knew my history well and made good care options.
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.
Rick B.
7/8/25 I've had 10 colonoscopies in the last 25 years. This was my first visit with Dr Bologna. I read in some of his reviews about him returning a call late, not being compassionate enough, to some complaining about him wearing an Armani suit. Based on those complaints I still choose him based on his credentials.First,be glad your doctor has established his career enough to have earned the right to purchase what ever he wants. Would it make you fell better if your doctor wore shorts and a tank top?then there was a complaint about him being late on a phone call. Why should that be surprising? Ever been to a doctors vist when there on time? When I go too the doctors I educate myself in detail about my condition. When I ask questions and doctors see I actually know what I'm talking about they have always responded well. DR.Bologna and I spoke about my condition right before my procedure, we went over my past reports as well as photos, No small talk just strait business. His facility and staff were all very professional. They called in the afternoon to check on how I was doing. I would recommend him and his facility to any family members.
patrick F.
The PA was very knowledgeable and treated me like I was her only patient for the day.
William S.
These folks are on top of their game.
Outstanding professionalism with everyone I interacted with. Roger my RN was amazing. Got my IV started painlessly and was a pleasure to talk with.
Highly recommend
Eric P.
The staff was very helpful and caring made me feel comfortable about my procedure.
Renato D.
I only waited 10 minutes after I arrived before they took me back. The procedure only lasted 1 hour before I was in recovery. Thanks for everything!
Kelly S.
Very efficient and helpful.
Patricia G.
Happy to have met her and she will be my new Dr
Ferid A.
Check-in and orientation went smoothly and the examination was completed in “no” time (could be anesthesia time).
Mona B.
Love Dr. Bakken.
Christopher T.
Got a colonoscopy here. Procedure was flawless and quick everything was great. Dr. Willie, Jacob the MA, Anika, and others were very helpful and quick. Thank you for making what's thought to be am unpleasant experience pretty easy!
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
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!
Deon J.
The Staff was very professional and friendly. I would Highly recommend Dr Desai and his staff to my family and friends who are having issues with Digestive Health.
Lisa M.
Dr. Wille has been my gastroenterologist for several years. I recently had a procedure and found he and his staff to be the most professional and caring, making sure you’re comfortable throughout your stay. Thank you for your thoughtfulness! Don’t ever retire!!
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.
Regina K
Dr Weber and his team were awesome. Everyone was professional, listened, answered questions, and very pleasant. They worked hard to keep the experience calm. The check-in staff were very pleasant as well and I received a call within 2 hours after discharge asking how I was doing. Thank you.
Barbara D.
Appointment started on time and was completed in 15 minutes. Was very satisfied with my talk with the Dr. Wille. 👍😊
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.
Claudia H.
Staff is knowledgeable, caring and professional. No long wait times and Dr. R. Wille is the absolute best!
Valerie P.
Positive experience during a not so pleasant to go though screening.
The staff was over the top nice and made me feel comfortable.
John M.
The entire staff was very friendly and efficient. Entirely excellent experience.
Sue D.
One of the things I love most about Dr. Donat, is his kind and caring manner, he listens, asks questions and is mindful of the patients concerns. That's why I have been a patient with this office and this Dr. for over 15 years. The staff is kind and caring and does their best to work with patients.
Denise K.
I changed to Dr Willy because I wasn't getting any progress from my previous Dr. Things aren't going any differently here. He wants to schedule more tests that I've already had on more than one occasion. I had 17 ERCPs in 3 years with my previous DR. and now he wants another. I did the colonoscopy and EUS 2 years ago with Dr Willey. He said to make sure he didn't miss anything. If he missed something I don't want him as my Dr.!
John M.
Every thing was done professionally.Excellant staff.
Daphne J.
Very nice and warm 👌 with smiling face and asks lots of questions and listened to you explaining the symptoms and giving you answers you could understand 😀 also tips to fix some of them. Thank you for your time.
Raymond C.
Super friendly and attentive staff. Made a not overly pleasant procedure a positive experience!

Thank you to all the doctors, nurses and support staff
Kit D.
Very professionally run. Is now my go to gastroenterologist. PA very knowledgeable and very pleasant.
Terry D.
As usual, everything was done perfectly. The staff is just marvelous. The doctor of course is very good excellent and it's not much to say there's everything was perfect thank you very much.
Lisa S.
Dr Nandi and his staff are amazing I wouldn’t go anywhere else
Peter S.
Love this place. Dr Bologna is excellent and my whole family goes to him. Office staff is wonderful too… keep it up
John B.
They made my day. Took great care to get us checked in, prepped in a private area, friendly staff and informative. They were actually ahead of schedule, when does that happen in a doctor’s office? Done in no time flat and escorted to our vehicle to make sure we could safely head out for a much needed breakfast. Great work from the entire team.
Sam G.
From the moment I walked in the door, I felt taken care of. The entire staff is very professional and the doctors are top notch. I’ve been a patient for 25 years and have always had a positive experience. Health care is challenging these days. This office does not disappoint. I highly recommend!!
Julie S.
Everyone at this practice, from the person who scheduled my appointment to the young man who walked me to my car when it was all over - and especially Dr. Nandi - was kind and compassionate. Would recommend.
Kassidy 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.
bernard G.
Doctor was very knowledgeable and advised me what he thinks is the best treatment for me .
John J.
Friendly and knowledgeable staff. Took good care of me.
Debbie M.
Always professional and clean facilities. Roger was my pre-op nurse and was fantastic! Dr. Weber is exceptional. Wouldn't trust anyone else.
Christine B.
Dr Menhat is a very good doctor as well as his medical staff. I did have a problem that I did not receive the pre op instructions until I placed a call the Thursday before my Monday colonoscopy. I received the instructions immediately after my phone call. I believe I called the office in mid April to schedule the procedure.
Marvin B.
On time, cordial, pleasant and painless. Very caring of patient and spouse and organized.
Gary C.
A very PROFESSIONAL, polite and friendly staff made for a good all around experience. Not my favorite test to have , but Dr. Bologna and his staff took great care of me.
Kaylene B.
They got me in fast and Very nice Doctor
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.
Sue S.
Very friendly staff
Amazing C.
Dr. Richard Wille has been my Gastroenterologist Physician for many years who has always shown a heartfelt of care, with true concern, regarding my medical health issues and situations. He, as well as his staff, and his Medical Assistant, Chris, have always, and I mean always, been pleasant and professional with me whenever there was a need for their assistance, with Dr. Wille being patient listening and explaining whatever is needed to bring clarity for me to be able to understand my medical issues and situations a little better, regardless of my many questions. Dr. Wille is a great Physician, and more than anything, he's a great person and a great listener that truly cares about his patients and their health. It's never a rush deal with him, which I truly appreciate. If there was a way to receive 100 Stars, he would definitely be entitled to them all 100%. Thank you Dr. Wille for being such a great Physician in your field with a wonderful spirit of handling your patients with kindness.
Ron J.
Great visit, they went through my medical history very positive
Tamara T.
I walked in and everyone was so amazingly friendly! Abby made me and my family feel relaxed. My PA (sorry I forgot your name) listened to everything I said! She NEVER blew off anything I described and almost instantly my systems eased when I started the meds she prescribed. Not gone but eased is so much better! I highly recommend going here!!!!! But only if you want to feel better quickly!!!
Valerie D.
I was really nervous, but the staff and Doctor Bakken took really good care of me. It was a really good experience.
Mike J.
Just the best overall !! Thank you
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.
Marylou M.
Very nice and pleasant doctor. Didn't have to wait, my appointment was on time.
Kim M.
Rachael was the most supportive, caring , and so thorough throughout this process. I had glitches with allergies and such but she worked through all the red tape with grace and poise. Procedure went smoothly and as scheduled. Rachael is such a gem and should definitely get extra kudos for her work on my complicated case. Bless you.
Robert H.
The Doctor is very thorough and always has a smile.
Dawn P.
Always have a great experience the staff is considerate,professional & they all care. I see Noelle she's the best!!
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.
Ceci G.
Staff very knowledgeable. Dr. Bakken always take time to talk to you and doesn't make you feel rushed.
Patricia B.
Taken in on time! Every segment of procedure was met with extremely professional and very caring nurses and doctors! A truly comfortable experience!
Robert W.
Dr. Tocco is excellent in his work ethics and bedside manners. Very pleased with him and being young !
Sara S
Dr. Webber is a breath of fresh air!! He listens and wants to help! So nice and helpful! Recommend Dr. Webber!
Stephanie P.
Dr. B was very helpful and thorough
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.
robyn G.
Love Dr Balonga and Margaret!
Christine P.
Working with this practice was smooth and easy. From booking to my escorted walk to my ride, everyone was kind and friendly. Appointment was timely and efficient.
Patti S.
From the minute you enter, everyone is professional and friendly. The nursing staff is exceptional and, of course, Dr. Nandi is the best!
Mehrdad N.
i was very please with the staff and their care.
Thank you
YAIRA S.
Dr. Jack Tocco is truly exceptional!
From the moment I walked into his office, I felt heard, respected, and genuinely cared for. He took the time to listen to my complex medical history, asked thoughtful questions, and explained everything in a way that was easy to understand. He never made me feel rushed or dismissed — instead, I felt like I had a true partner in my care.

His knowledge, professionalism, and kindness stood out immediately. I left the appointment feeling more confident and hopeful than I’ve felt in a long time. If you’re looking for a GI doctor who actually takes the time to understand YOU as a person and not just a list of symptoms, Dr. Tocco is the one. Highly, highly recommend!
Leo W.
Very, very professional. Dr. Weber is one of the nicest doctors I have along with his staff.
Hillbilly03 R.
Dr. Weber and the whole staff was super nice and on point. Hardly any wait. I also received a call later in the evening to see how i was doing.
Francisco N.
Appointment was on time. Dr. Willie’s PA bright, attentive , professional.
Mike P.
CDH is set up for quick registration and in front of the PA, Nicolette, in a very timely manner. She was polite, thorough, and we have a good plan to take more steps in our plan of continuous digestive improvement! Thanks again. I'll be back for a scope.
Darlene H
Easy in & easy out, no having to wait 1/2 hour to see the doctor.
Mary B.
Very efficient overall.
Paul M.
From the receptionist to leaving the office, everyone was very nice and extremely professional.
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.
Gary N.
Everyone was very efficient and professional.
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.
Deb M.
I was seen quickly. I have to go back after blood work but Dr Nandi was thorough
ann P.
Dr Bologna’s staff was very professional and kind. They really went out of their way to make me feel comfortable going through this procedure.
Roseann S.
From arrival to departure ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️!
Cheryl S.
We had a wonderful experience yesterday at the Center for Digestive Health in Macomb!
Dr. Weber was informative after the procedure and made us feel confident with the outcome. Mary, Dr. Weber's RN,
was super friendly and engaging; taking care not to rush us and answer any other questions we may have had. She has a wonderful "bedside manner".
The waiting area couches were quite comfortable also!
Thank you both for the positive experience at your facility!
April S.
Dr Quallich and the staff are very friendly and helpful. Explained everything so that I could understand. I highly recommend this Dr.
John M.
Great!
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
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.
Kara H.
Professionalism and kindness from each staff member. Truly the best! Highly recommended.
Randy I.
This was my third experience with this group and each experience has been excellent.
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
Sumead58 D.
Everyone was very nice, friendly and professional. From the person checking me in to the person who walked with me to the car after the procedure. I highly recommend this center for a colonoscopy.
JoAnn M.
I seen Noelle she was very good I was pleased with her answers and the test she had me do.
Carolyn G.
Dr.Donat and his medical staff are cordial, professional and efficient. I have always had a positive experience there.
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
tina K.
Very professional place I had procedure at macomb office excellent service from start to finish
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.
Cheryl S.
We had a wonderful experience yesterday at the Center for Digestive Health in Macomb!
Dr. Weber was informative after the procedure and made us feel confident with the outcome. Mary, Dr. Weber's RN,
was super friendly and engaging; taking care not to rush us and answer any other questions we may have had. She has a wonderful "bedside manner".
The waiting area couches were quite comfortable also!
Thank you both for the positive experience at your facility!
Kassidy 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.

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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