FAQ's

Why would I make an appointment?

It is recommended that a screening colonoscopy be done after the age of 50 and earlier for those with a family history of colorectal cancer. Excluding skin cancers, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States. Regular colorectal cancer screening can, in many cases, prevent colorectal cancer altogether. This is because most colorectal cancers start as polyps, which are non-cancerous growths in the lining of the colon or rectum. Testing often finds these polyps, and allows them to be removed before they have the chance to turn into cancer. Screening can also result in finding colorectal cancer early, when it is highly curable.

(American Cancer Society, July 2008)
Other reasons that patients see us include, but are not limited to, epigastric pain, reflux, heartburn, or trouble swallowing. Patients also may be experiencing abdominal pain, blood in their stool, black stools, chronic diahrrea, or a change in their bowel habits. If you are having any of these symptoms, contact your family physician about visiting us.

What are my payment options?

NMAEC accepts Medicare, Maine Care, and most commercial insurances. Please call your insurance company ahead of time to find coverage rates, as all plans are different.

How long will I be there during a procedure?

Expect to be at our center for 3 hours. You will first go to the admission/recovery area where our nurses will ask you some simple questions, start an IV for medication administration, and get you ready for your procedure. Procedure time varies depending on what you are having done and your specific conditions. After, you will return to the admission/recovery area where our nurses will care for you and get you ready to go home.

Will I be asleep and will my procedure hurt?

You will be sedated during your procedure but will still breathe on your own. You will be kept relaxed and comfortable during the whole procedure. Your procedure will not hurt at all. The GI tract does not contain pain receptors and therefore any biopsies or removal of polyps will not be felt.

When will I be able to go back to work?

Patients are able to go back to work the day after their procedure.