Dr. William Barlow, MD

Dr. William Barlow, MD is a Gastroenterology specialist practicing at his clinic in Saint Augustine, FL. He is dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive Gastrointestinal care, registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing 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. Currently, Dr. Barlow is not accepting new patients, but you can call (904) 824-6108 to inquire about waitlists or future openings.

William J Barlow, M.D. is a Board Certified Gastroenterologist, certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine, and practices with a focus on exceptional care inside and out. With over 25 years of dedicated experience in Gastrointestinal care, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. He earned his medical degree from University Of Kansas School Of Medicine in 1995, completed an internship at Tulane University Of Louisiana, and subsequently pursued residency and fellowship training in Gastroenterology at Tulane Medical Center, specializing in the comprehensive medical care of All ages. Further specialization was pursued at Tulane Medical Center and University Of Miami Miller School Of Medicine. He is Board Certified in Gastroenterology by the National Board of Physicians and Surgeons. Dr. Barlow offers consultations in Chinese.

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

• Benign Neoplasm of the Digestive System: Many benign digestive growths are asymptomatic, highlighting the significance of preventive screenings to catch them before they cause problems.
• Diaphragmatic and Hiatal Hernia: Regular check-ups are crucial for early identification of diaphragmatic and hiatal hernias, as timely management can prevent serious digestive problems down the road.
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Managing IBD effectively through medication and lifestyle changes helps prevent debilitating symptoms and potential complications like colon cancer, underscoring the importance of proactive care.
• Diffuse Esophageal Spasm: Diffuse esophageal spasm can lead to long-term problems like severe acid reflux if left untreated; therefore, seeking medical attention and proactive lifestyle changes are crucial for prevention.
• Stomach and Small Intestine Cancer: Understanding family history and undergoing recommended screenings are vital steps in preventing or early detecting stomach and small intestine cancers, ensuring better health outcomes.
• Celiac Disease: Prevent serious complications from celiac disease by getting screened if you have symptoms like diarrhea or unexplained weight loss; early detection and management are key to maintaining a healthy digestive system.
• Esophageal Cancer: By staying informed about esophageal cancer risk factors and seeking medical attention for persistent digestive issues, you can significantly improve your chances of early detection and successful treatment.
• Gastrointestinal Malabsorption: Don't let gastrointestinal malabsorption impact your health negatively; by understanding its potential causes and being attentive to symptoms, you can engage in preventive measures to protect your digestive system and overall wellbeing.
• Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Protecting your liver starts with understanding NAFLD – a condition caused by excess fat accumulating in the liver, often preventable through healthy eating and exercise habits.
• Upper Digestive Tract Cancer: Upper digestive tract cancers, including those of the esophagus and stomach, are more easily treated when detected early, highlighting the importance of regular screenings and preventive health checkups.
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Taking steps to prevent or manage GERD, such as dietary changes and medication, can safeguard your digestive system's health and prevent future problems.
• Viral Hepatitis: Regular check-ups and proactive monitoring for viral hepatitis, especially if you have risk factors, can help ensure early intervention and better long-term outcomes for your liver and overall health.

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

• Colon Cancer Screening: Invest in your long-term health with a colon cancer screening; it's a simple test that can significantly reduce your risk of colon cancer.
• Hemorrhoidectomy or Excision of Anal Tags: Hemorrhoidectomy or excision of anal tags is a surgical procedure to remove hemorrhoids or skin tags around the anus, improving comfort and preventing further complications.
• ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography): For comprehensive digestive health, ERCP offers a direct way to detect and treat blockages or diseases affecting your bile ducts and pancreas, thereby preventing severe complications and improving your overall well-being.
• Colonoscopy: Taking charge of your gut health starts with a colonoscopy: it's a vital screening test that detects abnormalities in your large intestine early, often before symptoms appear.
• 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.
• Rigid Proctosigmoidoscopy: As part of your preventive healthcare, a rigid proctosigmoidoscopy offers a direct examination of your lower intestine, helping identify and address issues like polyps or bleeding before they become major health concerns.
• Bile Duct Procedure: For a healthier digestive system, a bile duct procedure facilitates the timely identification and treatment of conditions affecting the liver, pancreas, and gallbladder.
• Endoscopy: An endoscopy is a proactive procedure that allows doctors to visually examine your digestive system, helping detect problems like ulcers, polyps, or cancers early on when treatment is most effective.
• Liver Biopsy: Taking a proactive step towards liver health, a liver biopsy provides valuable insights into liver function and can detect diseases like hepatitis or cirrhosis before they cause significant damage.
• Wireless pH Testing: This convenient test involves a small sensor that accurately monitors your esophageal pH over time, enabling your doctor to accurately diagnose and effectively manage acid reflux or other esophageal conditions.
• Sigmoidoscopy: Taking charge of your colon health starts with a sigmoidoscopy, a simple test that screens for precancerous polyps and colorectal cancer, often preventing these conditions from developing.
• Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: Ensure the health of your lower digestive tract with a flexible sigmoidoscopy. This screening procedure helps find and remove precancerous polyps, lowering your risk of colorectal cancer.

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. William Barlow 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 following a proactive screening plan, a patient was reassured that any potential benign growths were identified early, minimizing future risk and promoting peace of mind.
• By attending regular check-ups and following a proactive health plan, a patient reduced their risk of developing serious digestive complications associated with a diaphragmatic and hiatal hernia, enjoying a healthier, more comfortable lifestyle.
• By adhering to a personalized treatment plan, including medication and dietary adjustments, a patient significantly reduced the risk of debilitating IBD flare-ups and potential long-term complications. This proactive approach fostered a sense of control and 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. William Barlow:

What is a Gastroenterologist?

A gastroenterologist is a specialist physician trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, intestines, colon, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. They are experts in 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, those with a family history of colon cancer or other risk factors may need to start earlier. Dr. Barlow will determine the best, personalized screening schedule for you.

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 frequently be reversed with lifestyle changes. However, managing NAFLD is crucial to prevent potential progression to more serious liver damage, such as cirrhosis.

What are gallstones?

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

What are colon polyps, and are they dangerous?

Colon polyps are small, non-cancerous growths in the colon. While some types can potentially develop into cancer over time, a colonoscopy allows us to find and remove these polyps before they become cancerous, preventing the disease.

I have frequent heartburn. When should I be concerned?

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

What is Celiac Disease?

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder where consuming gluten, a protein found in wheat, triggers damage to the small intestine. It's different from a simple gluten sensitivity, and requires a proper diagnosis from a gastroenterologist before starting a gluten-free diet.

What is the role of diet in managing IBS?

Diet is a cornerstone of IBS management. Dr. Barlow can help identify trigger foods and recommend specific dietary approaches, such as the low FODMAP diet, to significantly reduce symptoms like bloating, gas, and abdominal pain.

40 Groover Loop Ste 200
Saint Augustine FL 32086
Phone: (904) 824-6108

Dr. William Barlow, 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): 1700073251

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. William Barlow 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.