Your doctor has partnered with Gifthealth for your upcoming colonoscopy because they want what is best for you! We have created this webpage to help you understand what is next.
At anytime in this process if you have questions our Patient Care Team is Ready to Help You:
Not all insurances cover every bowel prep. We ensure we find the most cost-effective price for you. If your insurance does not cover your bowel prep, we apply our lowest price or utilize a manufacturer program. This always ensures you get the best price possible.
Most medications that are dispensed are good for 2+ years to ensure you have plenty of time before expiration, even if your procedure is several months out.
Your medication will be shipped to you. Please be sure to check out ASAP so we can ensure your medication(s) arrive in a timely manner.
Your medication will be shipped to you via USPS or UPS depending on the needs for the delivery. We are able to ship to PO boxes as well as standard addresses.
Your medication will arrive in 7-10 business days. If your procedure is prior to the typical delivery timeline, we will expedite your medication to ensure it arrives in time.
Yes. Failure to do so can result in an incomplete exam which can increase the chance that something could be missed and that you may have to repeat the procedure/preparation.
Yes. Although the preparations are much better than they used to be, you can try these suggestions:
• Add Crystal Light or Kool Aid powder to it (no red, orange, or purple varieties). You should add this to one cup first to make sure you like the taste before adding it to the entire preparation.
• Suck on a Popsicle to numb your tongue before drinking the prep solution (again no red, orange, or purple).
• Chill the preparation solution
• Use a straw near the back of the tongue to drink the solution.
• Hold your nose and drink as quickly as possible
• Suck on a lemon slice after each glass
• Suck on hard candy after each glass
• Rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash.
Yes. Try these suggestions:
• When cleaning the area avoid rubbing.
• Gently pat with a wet washcloth or disposable alcohol-free wet wipe/baby wipes.
• Apply Vaseline or A&D ointment liberally.
• You may use a medicated wipe such as Tucks.
• Warm baths or sitz baths are also helpful.
Yes. Try these suggestions.
• You can take a short break from drinking the laxatives.
• Try drinking ginger ale or another clear liquid to help settle your stomach.
• For severe cases, consider asking your personal physician to prescribe an anti-nausea medicine to help relieve your symptoms. Continue your preparation when the feeling has subsided.
Maybe. It depends on how much preparation you were able to drink and how well the preparation has worked. If you were able to keep 75% of preparation and are passing clear liquid, then you may be able to proceed. However, if you have solid stool or were unable to keep down less than 50% of the preparation then you will probably need to reschedule. If you are unsure, contact your provider.
Yes. Sometimes it may seem clear, but the small intestine will continue to empty its contents into the colon. Your colon must be completely emptied to help ensure an accurate and thorough exam. Failure to do so can result in a colon which is not clean enough which can increase the chance that something could be missed and that you may have to repeat the procedure/procedure.
Patients will have different responses to the laxatives. Some may have a bowel movement immediately; others it may take 2 hours or longer. Continue drinking clear liquids and follow your bowel preparation instructions.