Howard University Hospital
Gastroenterology
Call Us Today at 202-865-6100
HUH Gastroenterolgy Department Web Portal
Patient Education & Resources
Howard University Hospital Gastroenterology offers a range of patient resources to support your care before, during, and after your visit. These include preparation instructions for procedures, educational materials on digestive health, and guidance for managing chronic conditions. Our team is committed to helping you understand your diagnosis, treatment options, and next steps, ensuring you feel informed, supported, and confident in your care journey.
HUH Gastroenterolgy Department Web Portal
What to Expect at your Visit
At Howard University Hospital’s Gastroenterology Division, patients can expect compassionate, comprehensive, and personalized digestive healthcare delivered by an experienced multidisciplinary team. From preventive screenings and diagnostic evaluations to advanced endoscopic procedures and treatment planning, our specialists are committed to providing high-quality care in a supportive environment focused on comfort, education, and improved patient outcomes.
HUH Gastroenterolgy Department Web Portal
Procedures, Preparation
& Instructions
Howard University Hospital's Gastroenterology Division is committed to helping you feel informed and prepared before your procedure. Click on the appropriate PDF below to access easy-to-follow Colonososcopy and Upper Endoscopy (EGD) preparation instructions, available in English, Spanish, and Amharic. These guides include important information about dietary restrictions, medications, arrival times, and recovery to help ensure a safe and successful procedure. Additional educational resources, including instructional videos, will be added in the future.
Patient Instruction Materials
Colonoscopy Patient Instructions
English Version
Spanish Version
Amharic Version
EGD Patient Instructions
English Version
Spanish Version
Amharic Version
HUH Gastroenterolgy Department Web Portal
Insurance Billing & Information
Howard University Hospital’s Gastroenterology Division is committed to helping patients navigate the insurance and billing process with clarity and support. Our team works with a wide range of insurance providers and is available to assist patients with questions related to coverage, referrals, authorizations, billing, and financial responsibilities to help ensure a smooth and accessible care experience.
HUH Gastroenterolgy Department Web Portal
Video Resources
Our Gastroenterology Video Library will soon feature educational content, physician insights, patient resources, and expert guidance on digestive health conditions, preventive screenings, procedures, and treatment options. These videos are being developed to help patients and families better understand gastrointestinal care while highlighting the expertise and compassionate approach of Howard University Hospital's Gastroenterology team.
Please check back soon for upcoming videos and additional educational resources.
HUH Gastroenterolgy Department Web Portal
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about digestive health, screenings, and procedures. Our goal is to help you better understand your care, know what to expect, and feel confident in managing your gastrointestinal health.
1. What is gastroenterology?
Gastroenterology is a medical specialty focused on the digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. Gastroenterologists diagnose and treat conditions affecting these organs.
2. When should I see a gastroenterologist?
You should see a specialist if you experience ongoing symptoms such as abdominal pain, heartburn, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, or blood in your stool, or if you need preventive screenings like a colonoscopy.
3. What is a colonoscopy and why is it important?
A colonoscopy is a procedure that allows your doctor to examine the colon for abnormalities. It is an important screening tool for detecting colorectal cancer early, when it is most treatable.
4. At what age should I start colorectal cancer screening?
Most adults should begin screening at age 45. However, individuals with higher risk factors—such as family history—may need to start earlier.
5. How do I prepare for a colonoscopy?
Preparation typically involves following a special diet and taking a prescribed bowel-cleansing solution to ensure the colon is clear for accurate results. Your care team will provide detailed instructions.
6. What conditions do gastroenterologists treat?
Common conditions include irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, acid reflux (GERD), liver disease, and colorectal cancer.
7. Are gastrointestinal procedures painful?
Most procedures, including colonoscopies and endoscopies, are performed with sedation to keep you comfortable and pain-free.
8. How can I maintain good digestive health?
Maintaining a healthy diet, staying hydrated, exercising regularly, managing stress, and keeping up with recommended screenings can help support digestive health.