Our trusted team delivers the most accurate screening results and provides a full range of services designed to return you to good health as promptly and painlessly as possible. From colon cancer, to chronic heartburn, to liver and pancreatic disease, our gastroenterologists and general surgeons provide relief for patients suffering digestive ailments and conditions of the digestive tract.
We and the American Cancer Society (ACS) recommend screening colonoscopies ever 10 years, starting at age 45 for adults with an average risk of colorectal cancer. Physician referrals are required for any screening services. To find a gastroenterologist, visit our physician directory or call our physician referral line (800) 903-9233.
Colon Cancer - Our highly trained physicians can detect even tiny precancerous growths, known as polyps, through a variety of advanced screening methods, and can provide the full range of treatment options.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) -We treat this condition with dietary modification and/or medications called proton pump inhibitors. If symptoms cannot be sufficiently eliminated by these methods, surgical options may be available.
Gallstones - We diagnose gallstones using abdominal ultrasound, a simple, noninvasive imaging technique. Gallstones can be removed, often in a minimally invasive fashion, through cholecystectomy. This procedure is generally an outpatient procedure but can at times be done on an outpatient basis.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) - We offer a full range of options to treat IBD (ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease), including medication, diet modification and surgery.
Physician referrals are required for screenings.
When surgery is required, our team of skilled surgeons stands ready to provide the most advanced care available in our region. Three of our surgical suites are designed for minimally invasive, or laparoscopic, procedures. Patients often enjoy significant reductions in healing time and postsurgical pain, along with less scarring and a more prompt return to normal daily activities. Our medical gastroenterologists and surgeons work closely together to provide optimal care.
Richard Nickowitz, MD is the medical director of the gastroenterology department, as well as an active member of the teaching faculty at the hospital. His areas of interest include inflammatory bowel disease, biliary tract disease, liver disease and endoscopy. He is fluent in Spanish.
Dr. Nickowitz studied at Yale University and Cornell University Medical College. He followed with an Internal Medicine Residency at The New York Hospital/Cornell Medical Center, and completed his combined Fellowship in Gastroenterology and Hepatology at Mount Sinai Hospital. Dr. Nickowitz has been on the medical staff at Huntington Hospital since 1993 and is ABIM (re)certified in Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology.
Recent studies have focused on the connection between healthy gut bacteria and overall wellness. Huntington Hospital Clinical Dietition Crystal Kwan, MPH, shares tips for incorporating probiotics and prebiotics into your diet to encourage the right bacteria in your system. A beneficial balance can help keep your GI tract healthy and protect against harmful microorganisms.
Read Crystal Kwan's article here.