It depends on your insurance plan. Many PPO plans allow you to self-refer to a specialist, while HMO plans typically require a referral from your primary care physician. Check with your insurance or call our office and we'll help you figure out what your plan requires.

Call us at (831) 260-3591, or use the Request Appointment form on this website and our team will contact you to schedule. New patients are welcome at all three locations.

Please bring a photo ID, your insurance card(s), a list of current medications (including over-the-counter drugs and supplements), and any relevant medical records, lab results, or imaging from other providers. Arriving 15 minutes early helps with check-in paperwork.

Whichever is most convenient for you — we see patients in Soquel/Santa Cruz, Los Gatos, and Watsonville (at Salud Para La Gente). Procedures are performed at our affiliated hospitals and surgery center; our schedulers will direct you to the right place for your specific visit.

We accept most major insurance plans, including Medicare. Because plan networks change, the best way to confirm coverage is to call our office at (831) 260-3591 with your insurance information, or check with your insurer directly that we're in-network for your specific plan.

Your cost depends on your insurance benefits — copay, deductible, and coinsurance. Before procedures, our team can help you understand what to expect. You also have federal protections against surprise medical bills; ask us for our No Surprises Act disclosure for details.

Call our office at (831) 260-3591 and ask for billing. Please have your statement or account number handy so we can help you quickly.

Current guidelines recommend colorectal cancer screening starting at age 45 for people at average risk. If you have a family history of colon cancer or polyps, or symptoms like bleeding or a change in bowel habits, screening may be recommended earlier — talk to us about the right timing for you.

You'll receive detailed prep instructions when your procedure is scheduled, including diet changes and bowel prep for colonoscopy. Following the prep instructions closely is important — a good prep means a more accurate exam. If you have questions about your prep, call us before your procedure day.

Most endoscopic procedures are performed with sedation for your comfort. Because of the sedation, you'll need a responsible adult to drive you home afterward — you cannot drive, work, or make important decisions for the rest of the day.