Dr. Herbert Wolfsen, MD

Dr. Herbert Wolfsen, MD is a Gastroenterology specialist practicing at his clinic in Jacksonville, FL, dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive Gastrointestinal care. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). 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 welcomes new patients to begin their proactive health journey. Call (904) 914-8182 to schedule. Dr. Wolfsen's interests include advanced endoscopic imaging for detection of Barrett's disease, dysplasia and esophageal cancer, and endoscopic therapy for Barrett's disease, including radiofrequency ablation, photodynamic therapy, and cryotherapy. He completed rigorous medical training from recognized institutions, including an internship at Virginia Mason Medical Center and a fellowship at Mayo Clinic-Rochester, further specializing in gastroenterology. He is Board Certified in Gastroenterology by the American Board of Internal Medicine. His approach to care is collaborative and evidence-based, fostering a supportive environment where patients feel empowered to actively participate in their long-term health. Dr. Herbert Wolfsen provides consultations primarily in English.

A key part of the WePrevent mission is building your personalized prevention roadmap. Dr. Herbert Wolfsen 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. Herbert Wolfsen 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. Herbert Wolfsen 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:

• Stomach and Small Intestine Cancer: Early detection of stomach and small intestine cancer significantly improves treatment outcomes and chances of survival, highlighting the importance of preventive screenings.
• Vomiting Disorders: Identifying the cause of your vomiting is crucial for preventing recurrent episodes and protecting the health of your entire digestive system.
• Biliary Atresia: Biliary atresia is a rare liver disease in infants, and early diagnosis through newborn screenings and prompt treatment can significantly improve their long-term health and prevent serious liver damage.
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): GERD's persistent acid reflux can lead to serious complications if left untreated; preventive measures are key to maintaining a healthy esophagus and stomach.
• Small Intestine Cancer: Understanding your family history and adopting a preventative approach, including diet and exercise, may lessen the likelihood of small intestine cancer.
• Barretts Esophagus with Dysplasia: Barrett's esophagus with dysplasia is a precancerous condition where the lining of your esophagus changes, increasing your risk of esophageal cancer; regular screenings can help detect it early, allowing for timely intervention and preventing cancer development.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common digestive disorder that, while not preventable, can be effectively managed through lifestyle changes and early intervention to minimize its impact on your daily life.
• Ulcerative Colitis: By understanding ulcerative colitis and its risk factors, you can take control of your gut health, allowing for early intervention and reduced severity of symptoms.
• Stomach Cancer: Regular screenings and proactive health management can aid in the early detection of stomach cancer, enabling timely intervention and potentially life-saving treatment.
• Vascular Insufficiency of Intestines: Vascular insufficiency in the intestines means reduced blood flow to your gut, which can be prevented or its effects lessened by maintaining a healthy lifestyle including regular exercise and a balanced diet.
• Neuroendocrine Tumor of Pancreas: Managing risk factors like certain genetic conditions and maintaining a healthy lifestyle may reduce the likelihood of developing a neuroendocrine tumor in the pancreas, emphasizing the significance of preventive health strategies.
• Esophageal Cancer: Managing symptoms like persistent heartburn or difficulty swallowing can help identify esophageal problems early, potentially preventing cancer development.

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. Herbert Wolfsen offers a range of key preventive screenings and services designed to provide crucial insights into your health and support your well-being:

• Colonoscopy With Polypectomy: Taking charge of your colon health, a colonoscopy with polypectomy allows for the early detection and removal of polyps, reducing your risk of developing colorectal cancer.
• 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.
• ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography): An ERCP is a specialized procedure to investigate and address concerns in your biliary system and pancreas, acting as an important early diagnostic tool to prevent major health problems.
• pH Probe: Taking a proactive step towards digestive health, a pH probe test helps identify the cause of your heartburn and other reflux symptoms, allowing for early intervention.
• Colon Cancer Screening: Early detection saves lives! Colon cancer screening allows for the early discovery and treatment of colon cancer, increasing your chances of a positive outcome.
• Liver Function Test: Invest in your health by getting a liver function test. This blood test helps monitor your liver's health, allowing for early identification of problems and appropriate medical care.
• Rigid Proctosigmoidoscopy: To safeguard your digestive health, a rigid proctosigmoidoscopy is a procedure used to visually inspect your rectum and lower colon, detecting problems early and helping to prevent more invasive treatments later.
• 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.
• Colonoscopy: Protect your future by scheduling a colonoscopy; this procedure provides an in-depth look at your colon, enabling early detection and removal of precancerous polyps.
• Sigmoidoscopy: Protect your digestive health by scheduling a sigmoidoscopy; this examination allows for early detection of abnormalities in your lower colon and rectum, leading to effective treatment.
• Bile Duct Procedure: A bile duct procedure can help detect and address problems like blockages or infections early, improving your liver and pancreas health.
• Gastroenterology Procedures: Regular gastroenterology procedures, such as colonoscopies and endoscopies, offer crucial preventative screening opportunities, potentially saving your life by finding and removing precancerous polyps.

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. Herbert Wolfsen 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 diligently following a personalized screening plan, a patient significantly reduced their risk of stomach and small intestine cancer, gaining peace of mind about their future health.
• By understanding the underlying causes of their vomiting, a family proactively addressed potential risks, preventing future episodes and fostering a healthier digestive system for everyone.
• A family was relieved to learn that early newborn screenings for biliary atresia allowed for prompt intervention, significantly reducing the risk of long-term liver damage for their child. By proactively managing the condition, they could focus on their child's overall well-being.

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. Herbert Wolfsen:

What is a Gastroenterologist?

A gastroenterologist is a doctor specializing in the health of your digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, intestines, colon, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. They are experts in diagnosing and treating digestive conditions and perform 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. Wolfsen will determine the best, personalized screening schedule for you.

I have frequent heartburn. When should I be concerned?

While occasional heartburn is common, frequent or worsening symptoms (more than twice a week) should be evaluated. This could be a sign of GERD, which if left untreated, can lead to more serious problems. Dr. Wolfsen can diagnose the cause and create an effective treatment plan.

How do you manage chronic conditions like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis?

We approach chronic conditions like Crohn's and ulcerative colitis as a long-term partnership focused on achieving and maintaining remission. Advanced therapies are used to control inflammation, alongside nutritional guidance and regular monitoring to prevent flare-ups and improve quality of life.

Are there non-colonoscopy options for colon cancer screening?

Yes, there are alternative screening options like at-home stool-based tests. However, if these tests are positive, a colonoscopy is still necessary to thoroughly examine the colon, identify and remove any potential polyps, and ensure the best possible outcome. Colonoscopy remains the gold standard for both early detection and prevention of colon cancer.

What are gallstones?

Gallstones are small, hard deposits that can form in the gallbladder. Many people have gallstones without any problems. They only become a concern if they cause blockages, leading to pain. Dr. Herbert Wolfsen can help diagnose this issue.

What is the difference between Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), including Crohn's and Ulcerative Colitis, is an autoimmune condition causing inflammation and damage to the gastrointestinal tract. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), on the other hand, is a functional disorder causing symptoms like cramping and bloating without visible inflammation or damage.

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, taking thousands of pictures as it travels through the digestive tract. This allows Dr. Wolfsen and his team to identify any abnormalities.

4500 San Pablo Rd S
Jacksonville FL 32224
Phone: (904) 914-8182

Dr. Herbert Wolfsen, MD 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): 1851380737

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. Herbert Wolfsen 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.