Endoscopy Center Opens
First of its kind facility to help in the fight against Colon Cancer
Peoria, Illinois (August 25, 2009)--Peoria’s first outpatient center dedicated exclusively to the diagnosis and treatment of gastroenterology disorders was officially dedicated Tuesday, August 25, 2009. The Central Illinois Endoscopy Center located on the 5th floor of the Illinois Medical Center at 1001 Main Street is a collaboration of Methodist Medical Center and Illinois Gastroenterology Institute. A ribbon cutting was followed with tours of the facility.
Methodist President and CEO Michael Bryant commented in opening remarks, " The Central Illinois Endoscopy Center will give Peoria area residents improved access to cancer screening and other diagnostic services previously available only in a hospital setting."
Illinois Gastroenterology Institute gastroenterologist Dr. Eli Kuga explains, "Colon cancer is the second most deadly cancer in the U.S. and in Central Illinois, we have an unusually high rate of colon cancer compared to other regions of the nation. Fortunately a colonoscopy can identify and allow removal of small polyps before they become cancerous."
One unique aspect of the center, according to Dr. Kuga, is that the ambulatory center serves gastroenterology patients only. The latest in equipment and facilities have been tailored to meet specific needs, without the interruptions that can occur in a traditional hospital or surgery center that accommodates patients with many different conditions."
"Another major advantage to patients is the cost. Procedures at Central Illinois Endoscopy Center will cost less than procedures performed in the traditional hospital setting," said Michael Bryant. "This means less out of pocket expense to the patient. In addition, the patient leaves the center with a complete report including photos. A similar copy is also electronically sent to the patient’s referring physician."
The CIEC will also assist in recruiting much-needed gastroenterologists to the greater Peoria region. Before the Endoscopy Center, Peoria’s lack of a dedicated gastroenterology center was a roadblock for recruiting physicians when competing against other Illinois cities with established centers.
In addition to colonoscopy, services at the center will include dilation of the esophagus (widening of the tube that leads from the throat to the stomach), EGD (examination of the esophagus, stomach, and upper small intestine), and flexible sigmoidoscopy (examination of the lower colon). Registered nurses trained in gastrointestinal nursing provide patient care before, during, and after procedures.
For additional information, call the Central Illinois Endoscopy Center at 309-495-1144.
