PBC — Primary Biliary Cholangitis

Primary biliary cholangitis is a chronic health condition that occurs when your bile ducts are destroyed over time. Bile is a fluid in the liver that helps to digest food and rid the body of cholesterol, toxins, and old red blood cells. Damage from primary biliary cholangitis causes bile to back up in the liver, eventually resulting in scarring to the liver. This scarring is often called cirrhosis.

Primary biliary cholangitis is classified as an autoimmune disease, meaning it develops when the body’s immune system inadvertently attacks healthy cells. The condition is typically slow to develop.

What causes primary biliary cholangitis?

Primary biliary cholangitis develops when white blood cells begin to attack healthy cells within the bile duct in the liver. This leads to inflammation in the smallest bile ducts, which eventually spreads to other parts of the liver and causes scarring or cirrhosis, making it difficult for the liver to function normally. Primary biliary cholangitis is more common among women than men, and people who have a family member with the condition are also at greater risk. Experts believe that a combination of genetics and environmental factors, such as smoking, infections, and exposure to toxic chemicals, causes primary biliary cholangitis.

Is primary biliary cholangitis serious?

Primary biliary cholangitis can lead to multiple complications. For instance, it can cause cirrhosis or liver scarring, which makes it difficult for your liver to work properly and can eventually lead to liver failure. It can also lead to increased pressure in an important blood vessel called the portal vein. Other complications of primary biliary cholangitis include an enlarged spleen, gallstones, weak bones, vitamin deficiencies, and increased risk of other diseases like thyroid problems and rheumatoid arthritis. It can also lead to problems with memory, and some people may even develop liver cancer with primary biliary cholangitis. In addition, backed up blood from primary biliary cholangitis can cause increased pressure in veins, which may result in them breaking open and bleeding. When bleeding occurs in the stomach or esophagus, it is life-threatening and requires immediate medical care.

How is primary biliary cholangitis treated?

Primary biliary cholangitis cannot be cured, but there are medications that can slow disease progression and reduce the risk of complications. For example, a type of medication called ursodiol can help bile to flow through the liver, which improves liver functioning and reduces scarring. If medications are no longer working and a person begins to experience liver failure, a transplant may be needed. People with primary biliary cholangitis may also take medications that control symptoms like itching and fatigue. For example, antihistamines can keep itching under control.

Common Symptoms

  • “My doctor discovered primary biliary cholangitis when conducting routine blood work. Initially, I did not have any symptoms, but several years later, I developed itchy skin as well as dry eyes and mouth.”
  • “In the later stages of primary biliary cholangitis, I experienced pain in the upper right portion of my stomach, as well as yellowing in my skin and eyes.”
  • “After having primary biliary cholangitis for several years, I developed muscle pain and swelling in my feet and ankles, and I often had diarrhea.”

Sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/primary-biliary-cholangitis-pbc/symptoms-causes/syc-20376874

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What They Are Saying

Center For Digestive Health, Rochester Hills
Excellent
4.8
Based on 3963 reviews
review us on
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.
Qiang L.
My provider was very thorough with explaining the procedure and answered all my questions in a very friendly manner! They made me feel comfortable throughout the entire visit
Jeanette M.
Saw Dr Willie NP and she was very professional and addressed my concerns. I would recommend Dr Willie and his staff
Christopher V.
Great office everyone very helpful and polite.I will recommend to everyone.
Harmony T.
Dr. Wille was great! All the RNs were informative and strong at their job! The CRNA Kevin was also informative and funny!! The front desk personnel were inviting. The whole process was quick and professional!
Doris F.
Excellent communication about concerns, Dr and staff friendly, patient, and takes the time to listen to offer alternate treatment.
James R.
Easy in, easy out. Extremely professional. Kind and caring.
Eric I.
Great service
Patrick W.
For a colonoscopy it was a good experience. The staff was welcoming and caring from scheduling, checking in, pre procedure, post procedure, getting discharged, etc.
Cindy
Dr. Wille is a very caring, compassionate doctor! He looks you in the eye instead of typing on his computer while you talk, that is so important to me, it shows me that he is LISTENING to me and cares what I have to say. To get an appointment to see him in the office takes awhile, that's how popular he must be. I can see why. That is my only negative that I have encountered. He was timely once it was my appointment time to see him. I appreciated that since so many doctor's have you sit for awhile in the exam room waiting for the doctor to walk in. I would recommend Dr. Wille to anyone looking for a knowledgeable, caring, and compassionate gastroenterologist. Thank you Dr. Wille!
s AINT 1.
Pleasant,Polite & friendly atmosphere. had no issues at all! Very thorough & professional, helpful staff .
Tim L.
All the staff were very pleasant. They got me in on time. Didn't have to wait long to see Dr Donat. everything went really smooth and the visit was a good one.
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.
Anthony B.
I have complete confidence in the care provided by Dr Weber and all the staff. They are professional, practiced in their methods, friendly and sincere in their concern for their patient's wellbeing. They are top notch as a health care provider.
Elisabeth H.
Very professional from beginning to end!
Kathy O.
I had a great office visit with Dr Willi’s NP today. She was very thorough, explained everything to me, and she was very patient with my multiple questions.
Lisa M.
They are the best! Dr. Quallich is a very good doctor he has an amazing bedside manner but, most important he calms you down before any procedure. I wouldn't go to any other digestive doctor. The staff is super nice always with a smile on thier faces! I would recommend to everybody 💯 %.
lorikolke
I had a great experience. Staff and Doctor were extremely professional, kind, and efficient! I highly recommend Doctor Willie!
Carolyn G.
Dr.Donat and his medical staff are cordial, professional and efficient. I have always had a positive experience there.
Lolita M.
It was a calm and peaceful experience.
Patty G.
Just had my colonoscopy done at this location. Everyone was very nice and helpful. I was able to get in and out in 1 hr and 15mins. Great staff!! Very easy!
Mary S.
I did not have to wait long at all and the Jennifer was very informative and knowledgeable.
Debbie C.
This is a very well run practice.Staff is kind and thorough!
Sandra G.
Staff is caring, professional and friendly.
Larry B.
Always a wonderful experience. Kind and considerate.
Thomas F.
Dr. Weber is terrific! I feel very confident and comfortable with him as my G.I. specialist. His assistants, Debbie and Jamie, are very helpful, accommodating and pleasant.
Dave C.
Dr Bakken and the staff did a wonderful job of making my experience a positive one!
Rod P.
Dr willie is the best
Beverly G.
I had an EGD yesterday with Dr. Willie.I was nervous but it was a breeze! The anesthesiologist was great and the staff are very friendly and make you comfortable.Dr. Willie is the best. Highly recommend him!!I will always go to this practice. They make you comfortable with your issues.
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
Jim Z.
Great team. Very professional. Totally a smooth operation.
Mary L.
The staff at CDH starting from check-in to discharge were all very professional and friendly. Dr. Donut and his staff are wonderful! I would highly recommend this facility to all. Thank you for taking such excellent care of me during my procedure.
Elaine C.
Very impressed with the staff throughout the whole procedure. The entire staff was very kind and professional, it was a positive experience.
Paul C.
Good experience considering. Staff and Dr. Bologna are all great!!
Jim E.
The entire staff here is the best and do everything to make you feel comfortable.Dr. Bologna is the best
Susan C.
Very pleasant and professional experience. Wouldn’t go anywhere else.
Phil “Grampy!” H.
This place has it going on, they've got it down to an art form.
Bernie F.
Dr. Donat was great, in fact the entire operation was top notch. Arrived at 11am, had my procedure and was out of there a little after noon and had the results online in 1-2 days. Highly recommend this practice.
Connie S.
The appt was on time & I felt my Doctor listened attentively & responded with applicable recommendations for me.
patrick F.
The PA was very knowledgeable and treated me like I was her only patient for the day.
Nathan R.
The process was very efficient and painless.
Debra B.
I thought they were all really nice considerate efficient I was in taking care of and out
George T.
Very professional and very caring of their patients wellbeing, during and after the procedure.
Dominic A.
First,we seen the doctor on our appointment time.Second very friendly atmosphere n Third the doctor very open honest and professional.
Gaspare P.
Very professional, everyone is very very nice
Lawrence W.
Excellent and carefully focused treatment
Linda H.
Efficient staff Very caring doctors.
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.
Barbara D.
Appointment started on time and was completed in 15 minutes. Was very satisfied with my talk with the Dr. Wille. 👍😊
Deb F.
The surgical area is very clean and the staff is extremely friendly and knowledgeable. Dr. Tocco talked to me afterwards and I also received post operative information. I was in and out in a very reasonable time.
BAM
Dr. Donat is the best. The clinical staff is amazing.
Richard C.
thank you CFDH, You guys are great!
Larry N.
The most friendly and professional medical facility I have ever visited. Every contact during my visit was efficient. Each person communicated exactly what was happening.
Sally O.
So pleased with the staff meeting I had. Everything was explained in detail and the nurse went over all the tests, reviewed diet with me and gave me good suggestions to help with my acid reflux. I would recommend the doctor and staff very highly and they are so professional.
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.
Kevin G.
Dr. Willie is one of the best. Always good when I talk to him. Best in the biz.
Elinor S.
Dr. Wille and his staff are great! Taken in on time, given time with Dr to discuss my problem and treated with the utmost courtesy. Always my go to GI place!!
Linda B.
Dr. Nandi and his full staff are amazing, kind, and caring.
Michelle S.
The staff were welcoming and professional. Dr. John Weber was very helpful and knowledgeable. My husband and I feel that we are going to do well under Dr. Webers care.
terrilynn868
I really like Dr. Bakken.
Teresa W.
The staff is amazing and they were very attentive. My doctor was the best!
Dawn L.
Everyone is always friendly. Able to make an appt quickly. Very efficient. I've never waited for more than 5 to 10 minutes to be seen. Nicolette is very thorough and takes her time to explain things. I've never felt rushed. I've only ever seen Dr. Wille for my colonoscopy and he's always been very pleasant and answers all of my questions without feeling rushed. I highly recommend this office.
Patricia G.
Happy to have met her and she will be my new Dr
John L
Staff and doctor very professional from beginning to end. All went quickly and easily. Thanks.
Carletta H.
My experience with Nicollet was very important information that was explained to me that made perfect sense that the others did not thank you, Nicollet, for connecting the dots for me
Taryn
I can't express enough how impressed I am with the Center of Digestive Health. From scheduling the appointment through to completing the procedure, everyone was so professional and kind. Dr. Aalia Saeed and her anesthesiologist were so lovely!! I would highly recommend this center to anyone needing an appointment.
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. 😊
Cat C.
I had a visit with Noel, she made me feel very comfortable, and was able to address all my issues. I felt she was very knowledgeable about how to help me. She was able to come up with a plan, and explained it to ensure I understood completely. Noel was very friendly and professional. Excellent experience!
Keith G.
Great place, easy procedure.
Lynn R.
I’ve had my colonoscopy’s done at this office by Dr. Quallich for the last 15 plus years and would not go anywhere else. The staff is very professional and nice as well as Dr. Quallich. They make sure they answer any questions you have. I would highly recommend it!
Adrienne S.
Very friendly and professional staff!!
L H.
My visit to Dr. Donat was excellent. We discussed my issues and recommendations were made. Very satisfied.
Dianna P.
Very professional. Also very personable.
Andrzej S.
Dr Bologna and his staff are friendly and professional. They listen are knowledgable and caring. Would highly recommend
Diane O.
I've been under Dr Donat's care for several years now. His office is courteous and caring. Highly recommend.
John M.
Great!
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.
Barbara B.
Dr. Khan is a person who knows her what she is doing. She's fast and passionate on people's needs.
Michele M.
The prep prior to the procedure is miserable; however, the staff make the procedure as comfortable as possible.. They get you in and done as quickly and as accurately as possible...
Lois W.
The employees of the center for digestive health in Troy Michigan are very professional and very friendly. I was made to feel very at ease, I was a new patient and I left there feeling absolutely great. I appreciate everyone’s friendliness and professionalism.
Lani W.
Friendly staff and my doctor is easy to talk to about my GI health.
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.
Amy N.
No wait, speedy appointment, doctor who listens! 😊
Lynn D
Timely, professional, efficient and kind!
William M.
The staff and Dr Bologna was great and very helpful.
Monica H.
Staff and doctor were exceptional. Very professional, courteous and accommodating. Would definitely recommend.
Susan L.
Dr. Saeed did not seem rushed. I have a 30 yr history and recent health problems affecting my previous treatment.She listened to my concerns, can up with a plan of care, includinh my input/concerns. I feel confident in her ability to help me maintain control of my Chron's disease. Her office staff is also very pleasant and thorough. All in all very pleased with my first visit. Thank you.
Robert G.
My overall experience with the Troy Digestive Center / Surgical Center of Michigan has been very good. In fact I would not consider going any place else.
Mary B.
Dr. Wille was clear in informing me about the procedure he would perform. Moreover, he was attentive to my description of my recent medical issues in mouth and esophagus which are relevant to his work. His answers were clear and reassuring.
PETER C.
Very good center, and I would recommend them to any one who needs a good Dr 👌
carla C.
I had previously wrote a review on your website but more than happy to do it again. I had a great experience which made this procedure much easier. The private room for prep/recovery was so much better than being in a room with curtains separating numerous other patients. The entire staff were very friendly and helpful and had a heated sheet waiting for me which felt great! Dr.Wille was extremely supportive and very pleasant man.I will recommend any family/friend in need of a colonoscopy to go to the clinic on Romeo Plank in Macomb and ask for him
shawn W.
Thorough and professional office with great communication. Highly recommended.
Nancy W.
I have never had an IV put in without being stuck and fished multiple times. I walked out of the center with one poke and barely a bruise. They took the time to look for a good vein and I greatly appreciate that.Additionally, everyone was extremely pleasant and cared for how I was feeling. To even receive a follow up call a couple hours after I left the center. I guess I’m not used to being treated so well and with care.
Thomas M.
Had a great experience
Andrea G.
I went in for a colonoscopy, was starving and they were great got me back right away and back for my procedure within maybe 20 minutes. The staff was very pleasant and answered any questions I had. Dr Tocco was very nice and made me feel comfortable before and after. Overall great experience thank you
Linda M.
Dr Wille & his staff are the best! Dr Wille always listens to my health questions & together we come up with a good plan.
Gerald O.
Everyone was really nice to me and before I knew it, I was out like a light and the endoscopy of my esophagus was over !!! Dr Quallich then came in and said everything looked normal and they gave me some apple juice, I got dressed and my driver took me home !!! So it was pleasant experience overall and a few days later the biopsy came back negative!!! Thank you Dr.Quallich and your nursing staff for a stress free visit in your very modern Macomb Twp. facility!!!
Bridget Z.
Everybody was friendly,, They explained everything and answered my questions. I overheard someone singing and the staff said it’s because it’s a great place to work.!
Sarah G.
Fantastic, caring, kind, and very skilled practice! From the 1st to last person I encountered.Dr. Quallich is not just a very skilled doctor but also extremely compassionate and wants to hear what my expectations are and takes them into consideration.
Jeanette D.
Efficient, caring and friendly service
Melissa K.
Everyone was very pleasant and informative every step of the way.
Barbara L.
My husband saw a physician assistant, Jennifer, who was enormously helpful and understanding. Some of the issues we were having, she referred to Patricia Brown, who phoned us almost as soon as we got home. As my husband said, “they are really on top of their game.”
Mary L.
Delightful staffCaring DrAbsolutely NO pain or discomfortThank you
Dawn P.
Always have a great experience tge staff is considerate,professional & they all care. I see Noelle she's the best!!
Kathleen E.
I had Dr Megan and I would like to say thank you she was very sweet and so was all the help in the office I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year
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!
Sharon J.
The best office and best doctors at this practice... The office is always willing to help you and gets you seen in a reasonable time.. Have been using them for years and have never been disappointed.
Jerry K.
For an uncomfortable procedure they made it very comfortable.
Johnny G.
Well run office, professional and conscientious Dr & staff
Carol R.
Everyone is so kind and helpful. Wonderful care.
Colleen C.
Excellent practice very punctual. Dr Webber is amazing.!!The staff is super on top of everythingThe surgical centers are 10
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.
Susan B.
Very prompt. My appointment was 4.15pm and I was in the examining room by 4.10 and talking with the doctor by 4.15pm. Scheduling for an upcoming procedure was quickly completed. The entire staff from receptionist, medical assistant and procedure scheduler were great: Pleasant, thorough and efficient. Dr. Donat was very caring and explained everything to my complete satisfaction.
K. Y.
My second time under the care of Gastroenterologist, 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.
Mark D.
Great staff.
D A
Professional without being too ridged, which makes patients feel comfortable
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!!!
Gerri O.
Everyone was very nice and professional. Told you everything that was going on. Quick and easier than I thought it would be.No problems at all.
David T.
Waiting time was fantastic. They took me in before i could finsh my paperwork. Dr. Saeed os magnificent
gust L.
Very polite and comfortable atmosphere and knowledgeable professional doctors ❤️
Joan F.
Every aspect of this experience was professional.
Judith H.
Doctor was on time and staff was proficient..
Jill H.
I really appreciate the professionalism of Dr. Donat and the surgical team at the Diggestive Center. The office as a whole is totally focused on you, your procedure and aftercare! I'd recommend them to anyone.
Rosemary P.
Dr. Wille and his staff are always kind and welcoming.
Lavaughn C.
Dr Abadir is a great dr. Listens to you and decides the course of treatment. Very happy with him and this office
Steve R.
Repeat Client - I arrived at 10:20am for a Colonoscopy procedure, and was on my way to Lunch by 11:30am. The entire staff was great, very thorough and efficient from start to finish. Best sleep I ever had, see you in another 5 Dr. Bologna 👍🏻👍🏻
James W.
I love Dr. Donat. He is so friendly, nice and professional. He is an excellent Doctor. I had a great overall experience. I would refer a friend.
Jon D.
CDH has been the epitome of a professional practice. The nursing staff and doctors are friendly and genuinely caring. They are open to questions, informative regarding every step of the procedure and always follow up the following day to ensure you are doing well.
Ken L.
Everyone I met was welcoming and seemed to care very much about my health. The doctor and the entire team did an excellent job. I felt I was In very capable hands throughout the procedure.
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!
Linda M.
My visit was very easy and efficient.
DeLano H.
Staff is A-1. Very helpful, explained everything about my procedure. It was my first time and I was nervous. Everyone reassured me these the hardest part was already over. You know what? They were right!! Great job👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👌🏽✌🏽
Darlene J.
Friendly staff. Professional and did an amazing job putting in my iv and checking me in and out. Felt very comfortable.
Ceci G.
Staff very knowledgeable. Dr. Bakken always take time to talk to you and doesn't make you feel rushed.
Algina J.
I had such a pleasant visit. The staff from the front office to the back was amazing. The Doctor was sensitive to my needs and reassuring. I was very pleased, thank you!A. Johnson
Lorell L.
Efficient, professional, caring, convenient , and respectful treatment.
Brad G
From Dr. Bologna, to the staff all very knowledgeable, professional and nice people. I felt very comfortable and cared for. See ya in five years!
Joelle M.
Everyone is so knowledgeable and friendly. I never have to wait more than 10 min in the waiting room. I'll be a patient for life!
Stephanie P.
Dr. B was very helpful and thorough
Richard K.
Friendly, competent, helpful service. Answered all my questions and modified care accordingly. Clerical service also helped me.
Kirk S.
Dr. Dunot is a great Dr. He is always very concerned about the way that you feel .
Dianna J.
Everyone was very congenial. All were very caring.A+++
steven J.
All the staff were great and share info to make sure I had no concerns. Very caring and professional
Lynn D.
Staff is prompt, friendly, efficient, and overall exemplary. If I could improve one thing it would be to have a more spacious and comfortable waiting room.
Michele B.
As always, every aspect of my appointment, the procedure, communication and documentation processes were handled with professionalism and care. Dr Donat, Danielle, Kathy and everyone else were top notch medical folks but also very kind to me personally. Truly good people.
John O.
Dr Donat exceptional with great patient skills. Gives clear concise explanations in layman’s terms. Genuine concern for welfare of patients. Staff at the surgical center courtesy and patient. Painless and pleasant experience
Henry R.
Dr. Wille is the best. Very knowledgeable and personable. Takes time to explain everything and answer all my questions. Thanks!
Joseph N.
I hold the highest regard for the best Dr and Gastro med office. Best people- best results. Dr Willie is as genuine as they come. Professional thorough and relatable care we all desire.
sigrid T.
Felt safe and taken care of. Dr Quallich is exceptional and kind. The entire staff was kind and knowledgeable. The procedures are necessary and represent me taking care of myself!A good decision all Round! Thank you
Angie K.
Dr. Willie and his team were amazing! No wait, staff was efficient, friendly and kind!
Yvonne G.
Dr. Bakker let me read off a list of items of concern and she responded to each item on the list.
Roger M.
Awesome crew, very professional and yet fun too. I was in and out with no issues. These people know what they’re doing!!!
George I.
Dr. Amir Abadir is very professional and knowledgeable. The communication with the office staff is great
Timothy S.
Each team member has a lot to be proud of, everybody was wonderful. Thank you all!
Winnie C.
Debbie went out of her way to help me get an appointment with Dr. Abadir set up. All of the staff we encountered were pleasant, helpful, and competent. Dr. Abadir listened and provided a plan to address my husband's issues.
Rosanne C.
Very caring and efficient staff
JUDY T.
Everyone is so friendly and helpful. Dr. Willie is the greatest. He is so kind and concerned about your issues. I would recommend him to anyone.
Cheryl B.
Dr Bakkan addressed all my questions and concerns satisfactorily and ordered a series of tests to address the issues discussed. She knows her stuff!
Leland T.
The sraff were professional but friendly.My appointment was prompt.Dr KahnWas great and was easy to talk with.Very good experience.
Sandra T.
First time at this location. Very nice office. When I asked questions Nicolle was very pleasant and explained everything thoroughly.Thank you, Noelle
Gary Z.
Dr Willie and the team was exceptional, efficient, and caring. I was treated as if I was the most important patient they had that day. True professionals in every way.
Len L.
The staff at the center are just the best. I can't say it any other way. You are treated with great care. Dr Len Qualich is the best. Don't put off the Colonoscopy that could save your life.
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4.8
Based on 3968 reviews
review us on
Doris F.
Doris F.
Excellent communication about concerns, Dr and staff friendly, patient, and takes the time to listen to offer alternate treatment.
Andrzej S.
Andrzej S.
Dr Bologna and his staff are friendly and professional. They listen are knowledgable and caring. Would highly recommend
Jerry K.
Jerry K.
For an uncomfortable procedure they made it very comfortable.
shawn W.
shawn W.
Thorough and professional office with great communication. Highly recommended.
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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

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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