We answer the questions patients ask most about gastrointestinal care at our Goshen practice. For a list of services we offer, see our Services hub, and for where we see patients, visit our Locations hub. For details about clinical care from our practice, see the Gastroenterologist service page.
Frequently asked questions
What services does Dr. Alan R. Plumer provide?
We provide comprehensive gastrointestinal care including evaluation and treatment of stomach and intestinal disorders, colonoscopy, and liver disease management. Our practice focuses on diagnostics, endoscopy, and medical management across gastroenterology and hepatology, and you can see a full list on our Services hub.
How do I prepare for a colonoscopy?
Preparation varies by the procedure and your medical history, and we give clear, step by step instructions before the test. Follow the specific guidance we provide, and review the practical checklist on our Colonoscopy Preparation topic so you know what to expect without attempting to improvise the process yourself.
How long will my colonoscopy visit take?
Expect a colonoscopy appointment to take roughly two to three hours from arrival through recovery and discharge. The actual procedure typically lasts under an hour, but sedation and recovery add time, so plan for transportation home after the visit.
Will my insurance cover GI procedures and how is pricing handled?
Insurance coverage differs by carrier and plan, and out of pocket costs depend on your benefits and whether the procedure is diagnostic or therapeutic. Our billing staff can explain what we bill and how claims are processed, and you can reach our office through the Contact page for specific billing questions.
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes, we are licensed and insured for the clinical services we provide. That coverage supports patient safety and professional responsibility in our practice.
What area do you serve?
We serve patients in Goshen, New York and the surrounding communities in the region. For a list of locations and where we see patients, consult the Locations hub.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Bring a photo ID, your insurance card, and a list of current medications and symptoms so we can review them together. If you have recent test results or imaging, please bring copies or have them available from your referring provider to help with a complete evaluation.
What is a hepatologist and when should I see one?
A hepatologist is a physician who specializes in liver conditions, and you should see one for abnormal liver function tests, fatty liver, viral hepatitis, jaundice, or other persistent liver concerns. We provide liver assessment and can direct testing such as liver function tests and imaging, see the Liver Function Tests topic for more context.
How are polyps handled during colonoscopy?
Most polyps found during colonoscopy are removed at the time of the procedure using standard techniques to reduce future risk. We describe detection and removal practices in plain language on our Polyp Detection And Removal page so you understand what removal means and what follow up you may need.
What follow up should I expect after an endoscopy or colonoscopy?
Follow up depends on the findings, ranging from same day discharge with routine follow up to a scheduled clinic visit for abnormal pathology or treatment planning. See our Post Colonoscopy Recovery page for typical recovery guidance and signs that need attention.
How do I get started with Dr. Alan R. Plumer?
Start by reviewing our services and locations pages to confirm we provide the care you need and that we see patients in a convenient place. You can also view topics about specific conditions to prepare for a visit and use the Contact page to communicate administrative details to our team.