We provide hepatology care in Goshen, New York. We evaluate abnormal liver tests, diagnose and manage hepatitis and fatty liver disease, treat complications of cirrhosis, and coordinate imaging and specialist procedures when needed.
What our hepatology service includes
As a hepatology service within a gastroenterology practice, we focus on liver, gallbladder and biliary tract disorders. Our care includes history and physical examination, interpretation of liver function tests, assessment for viral hepatitis, evaluation for fatty liver disease, monitoring for progression to fibrosis or cirrhosis, and treatment planning that fits your overall health.
We review prior records and work with referring physicians and primary care teams to assemble prior laboratory, imaging and biopsy reports. For patients who need advanced testing or procedures, we arrange imaging such as abdominal ultrasound or MRI, and coordinate referrals for interventions when appropriate. Learn more about our gastroenterology practice on the main practice page.
Benefits of specialist hepatology care
- Focused expertise in liver conditions so testing and monitoring match your specific risk
- Targeted interpretation of abnormal liver function tests and coordinated next steps
- Management plans for hepatitis, fatty liver disease and early cirrhosis to reduce complications
- Access to appropriate imaging and specialist procedures through our referral network
- Care coordination with your primary care provider and other specialists
Our process when you come for hepatology care
- Initial evaluation. We review symptoms, medications, alcohol and exposure history, and prior records to frame the likely causes of abnormal liver tests or symptoms.
- Targeted testing. We order or interpret liver function tests, viral serologies, metabolic panels and noninvasive assessments. When imaging is needed we use ultrasound or MRI reports to clarify structure and fat or fibrosis.
- Risk assessment. We evaluate the likelihood of fibrosis or cirrhosis using laboratory patterns and available noninvasive tools. If results are unclear we discuss the role of further testing or specialist referral.
- Treatment plan. We recommend medical treatments, lifestyle changes, vaccination when appropriate, or antiviral therapy for viral hepatitis in coordination with your team.
- Follow up and coordination. We monitor response to treatment, schedule repeat labs or imaging, and coordinate care with primary care, radiology, or surgical teams when intervention is required.
Watch out: Certain symptoms need prompt evaluation, including new yellowing of the eyes or skin, unexplained abdominal swelling, severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting or confusion. If you notice these signs, seek medical evaluation right away.
What good hepatology care looks like
Good care starts with a clear diagnosis and ends with a coordinated plan you understand. We aim to explain test results in plain language, lay out realistic options, and set measurable follow up steps. Examples of good outcomes include a clear working diagnosis, stabilization or improvement in liver tests, reduction of risk factors such as uncontrolled metabolic disease, and timely referral for advanced therapy when needed.
Why choose Dr. Alan R. Plumer, MD for hepatology care
We are a gastroenterology practice offering hepatology services under the care of Dr. Alan R. Plumer, MD in Goshen. Our approach emphasizes careful review of existing records, focused testing to avoid unnecessary procedures, and coordination with imaging and procedural partners when intervention is required. For a closer look at related topics, see our pages on fatty liver disease and liver function tests.
Service area
We see patients in Goshen, New York and from nearby communities. Our location details and directions are listed on the practice locations page for convenience and to help you plan travel.
Related services and topics
Hepatology care is part of the broader gastrointestinal services we provide. If your concern overlaps with other gastrointestinal needs, you may find these pages helpful:
- Gastroenterologist services for a broad range of digestive health issues
- Hepatitis management for viral hepatitis care and monitoring
- Cirrhosis care for advanced liver disease support and surveillance
Frequently asked questions
What conditions does a hepatologist treat?
Hepatologists manage liver related conditions including abnormal liver tests, viral hepatitis, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, alcoholic liver disease, cirrhosis and complications such as ascites or portal hypertension. We work with you and your primary care clinician to define the cause and the best next steps.
Do I need a referral to see a hepatologist?
Referral requirements vary by insurer. Some patients are referred by a primary care doctor, and some arrange specialist visits directly. Check your insurance plan or speak with your primary care clinician to confirm referral requirements.
What tests are commonly used to evaluate liver health?
Common tests include liver function blood tests, viral hepatitis serologies, metabolic panels, abdominal ultrasound, and noninvasive fibrosis assessments. In some situations a liver biopsy or specialized imaging is recommended to guide treatment decisions.
Can fatty liver disease be reversed?
Fatty liver disease is often managed by addressing underlying metabolic factors such as weight, diabetes and lipid control. The goal is to reduce liver fat and prevent progression. Specific treatment depends on the underlying cause and overall health, and should be developed with a specialist when indicated.
Will I need ongoing follow up?
Many liver conditions require periodic monitoring to track liver tests, imaging findings and risk of progression. We establish a follow up schedule tailored to your condition and treatment response.
Find us and learn more
See Dr. Alan R. Plumer, MD listed on the practice locations page and check the Google Business Profile for reviews and directions. For related reading, explore our topic pages and other services to learn how hepatology care fits into overall digestive health.