Dr. Ernest Digiovanni, DO

Dr. Ernest Digiovanni, DO is a Gastroenterology specialist dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive Gastrointestinal care at his clinic in New Port Richey, FL. Registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), he understands the importance of preventative measures in maintaining optimal digestive health. Your gastroenterologist is your primary partner in lifelong digestive health, creating personalized plans for prevention, coordinating crucial screenings, and managing the wellness of your entire digestive system—from esophagus to liver—to keep you feeling your best for years to come. He serves all ages and is committed to providing exceptional care, and patients should call (727) 846-7031 to confirm if he is currently accepting new patients.

Dr. Ernest Digiovanni, DO is a gastroenterologist in New Port Richey, FL, affiliated with HCA Florida Bayonet Point Hospital and AdventHealth Fish Memorial. He is accepting telehealth appointments and earned his medical degree from Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College Of Allopathic Medicine. His commitment to excellence is further demonstrated by his Board Certifications in Gastroenterology and Internal Medicine, both conferred by the American Osteopathic Board of Internal Medicine. Patient care is our #1 priority. Your health and well-being is our primary concern. Dr. Digiovanni provides consultations primarily in English.

A key part of the WePrevent mission is building your personalized prevention roadmap. Dr. Ernest Digiovanni is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on proactive strategies to protect and enhance your long-term health.

By working together, you and Dr. Ernest Digiovanni can create a clear, actionable plan to address your unique risk factors and health goals.

A proactive approach to health involves understanding and managing potential risks. Dr. Ernest Digiovanni provides expert care for a range of conditions, focusing on early detection and effective management to support your long-term wellness. Common areas of focus include:

• Liver Damage from Alcohol: Protecting your liver from alcohol-related damage starts with understanding your risk and making informed choices about alcohol intake to maintain a healthy digestive system.
• Viral Enteritis: Protecting your digestive system from viral enteritis involves diligent handwashing and safe food preparation, preventing unpleasant symptoms and potential complications.
• Duodenitis: Duodenitis can be a warning sign of other underlying issues. Preventive measures include healthy eating and prompt medical attention to ensure early diagnosis and prevent chronic inflammation.
• Esophageal Ulcer: Early detection of esophageal ulcers is crucial to prevent complications like bleeding or perforation; regular checkups with your doctor are key.
• Duodenal Ulcer: Early detection of a duodenal ulcer through endoscopy or other diagnostic methods is key to preventing long-term damage and the need for more extensive treatments.
• Esophageal Varices: Protecting your liver health through a healthy lifestyle and regular medical monitoring helps prevent the development of cirrhosis, a major cause of esophageal varices, thus safeguarding your digestive system.
• Hemochromatosis: Hemochromatosis, a condition causing iron overload, can be managed effectively with regular medical care to prevent severe liver and other organ damage – emphasizing the need for proactive healthcare.
• Liver Abscess: A liver abscess is a serious infection that can be prevented through good hygiene practices and prompt treatment of other infections to avoid complications and the need for extensive medical intervention.
• Diaphragmatic and Hiatal Hernia: Understanding the risk factors associated with diaphragmatic and hiatal hernias, such as smoking and pregnancy, allows for proactive steps to minimize your chances of developing this condition and its associated complications.
• Reflux Esophagitis: Reflux esophagitis, or heartburn, is a condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing inflammation that can be prevented through lifestyle changes like maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding trigger foods.
• Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: NAFLD, a buildup of fat in your liver not caused by alcohol, can be managed effectively through lifestyle changes, preventing progression to more serious liver diseases and improving long-term health.
• Familial Adenomatous Polyposis: FAP causes numerous polyps to form in the colon and rectum, greatly raising your cancer risk; managing this condition through frequent screenings and surgeries can dramatically reduce your chance of developing colorectal cancer.

This list highlights some common health concerns and is for informational purposes only. The best way to understand your personal health and create a prevention plan is to schedule a consultation. Accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans are developed based on individual patient evaluations.

Taking proactive steps is central to long-term health. Dr. Ernest Digiovanni offers a range of key preventive screenings and services designed to provide crucial insights into your health and support your well-being:

• Colorectal Cancer Screening: Early detection is key! Colorectal cancer screening allows for the identification and removal of polyps, often preventing colorectal cancer before symptoms arise.
• Manometry: Manometry is a simple test that measures the pressure in your esophagus, stomach, and intestines to help identify problems with swallowing, digestion, or bowel movements, allowing for early intervention and prevention of complications.
• Liver Biopsy: For early detection and prevention of serious liver problems, a liver biopsy helps your doctor determine the severity of liver disease and tailor a treatment plan to protect your long-term health.
• Duodenal Polypectomy: As part of your commitment to digestive health, duodenal polypectomy allows for the removal of polyps in your duodenum, potentially preventing the development of more serious conditions.
• Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: Invest in your long-term well-being with a flexible sigmoidoscopy. This painless exam allows for the early detection of colorectal cancer and other lower bowel diseases.
• Bile Duct Procedure: This procedure helps ensure the smooth flow of bile, preventing complications like jaundice or pancreatitis by addressing potential blockages or inflammation.
• Endoscopy: Take control of your digestive health with an endoscopy – a minimally invasive procedure that screens for and helps prevent serious conditions affecting your esophagus, stomach, and intestines.
• Fecal Impaction Removal: Safe removal of impacted stool helps restore regular bowel movements and improves your overall digestive health.
• Anoscopy: An anoscopy is a quick procedure that allows your doctor to directly examine the anal canal and rectum for any abnormalities, helping catch potential problems early.
• Colon Cancer Screening: Protecting your future starts with a colon cancer screening, which identifies abnormalities in your colon that can lead to cancer.
• Screening Colonoscopy: A screening colonoscopy is a proactive health checkup that allows for the early detection of colorectal cancer and other digestive tract abnormalities, facilitating prompt treatment and improving your overall health.
• Wireless pH Testing: Take control of your digestive health with wireless pH testing – a comfortable way to identify the source of your heartburn and acid reflux symptoms.

Service availability can change, and not all services listed may be appropriate for every patient. For a comprehensive understanding of all available services and to create your personalized screening plan, please schedule a consultation.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Gastroenterology in Florida.

Dr. Ernest Digiovanni is dedicated to partnering with Caregivers to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how a proactive approach can make a tangible difference in a Patient's life:

• By understanding their alcohol consumption and making gradual changes to their drinking habits, a patient significantly reduced their risk of future liver damage, gaining confidence in managing their digestive health.
• By practicing meticulous hand hygiene and safe food handling, a family successfully avoided the unpleasant symptoms of viral enteritis, enjoying a carefree summer filled with fun and healthy meals.
• By adopting a balanced diet and scheduling regular checkups, a patient proactively managed potential duodenitis symptoms, reducing their risk of chronic inflammation and ensuring peace of mind.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results may vary and depend on many factors specific to each patient. He will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.

Here are answers to some common questions about proactive Gastrointestinal care with Dr. Ernest Digiovanni:

What is a Gastroenterologist?

Dr. Digiovanni and our team are gastroenterologists, meaning we are specialists who have extensive training in the health of the digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, intestines, colon, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. We are experts in diagnosing and treating conditions, and performing preventive screenings like colonoscopies.

When should I get my first screening colonoscopy?

For average-risk individuals, routine screening colonoscopies are now recommended to begin at age 45. However, individuals with a family history of colon cancer or other risk factors may need to start earlier. Dr. Digiovanni will determine the best, personalized screening schedule for you.

What are colon polyps, and are they dangerous?

Colon polyps are small, non-cancerous growths in the colon. Some types can develop into cancer over time. A colonoscopy is crucial to find and remove these polyps, preventing the possibility of cancer.

What are some common signs of liver problems I should watch for?

Some common signs of liver problems include jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), persistent fatigue, abdominal swelling, and unexplained dark urine. If you experience any of these symptoms, please contact Dr. Digiovanni's office for a consultation and thorough evaluation.

What is a capsule endoscopy?

Capsule endoscopy is a modern, non-invasive way to examine the small intestine, an area difficult to reach with traditional scopes. A small, pill-sized camera is swallowed, and it takes thousands of pictures as it travels through the digestive tract.

What is the difference between a colonoscopy and an upper endoscopy (EGD)?

A colonoscopy examines the large intestine (colon) to screen for colon cancer, while an upper endoscopy (EGD) examines the esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine to evaluate issues like heartburn, ulcers, or difficulty swallowing.

What is 'fatty liver disease' and is it serious?

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a very common condition often linked to metabolic health issues like obesity and diabetes. Fortunately, in its early stages, it can often be reversed with lifestyle changes. However, managing NAFLD is important to prevent progression to more serious liver damage, such as cirrhosis.

Is the preparation for a colonoscopy difficult?

While some patients have concerns about colonoscopy preparation, modern prep solutions are significantly more comfortable than in the past. A clean colon is crucial for a thorough examination, allowing for the detection and removal of polyps. This one-day preparation is a small price to pay for long-term peace of mind.

10820 State Road 54 Ste 201
New Port Richey FL 34655
Phone: (727) 846-7031

Dr. Ernest Digiovanni, DO is regulated by the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice) in Florida and is licensed by The Florida Board of Medicine.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1891090528

Registration can typically be verified through The Florida Board of Medicine website or by direct inquiry.

The information on this profile, provided by weprevent.org, is for general informational purposes and to help you connect with preventive health partners. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the physician named. Gastroenterology like Dr. Ernest Digiovanni are skilled in helping patients create proactive health plans. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. It is always recommended to maintain open communication with your gastroenterology about all aspects of your health and your personalized prevention plan.