Endoscopy Center

Established in 1991, the Tallahassee Endoscopy Center (TEC) offers an alternative to hospitalization when a GI Endoscopy is needed. TEC is a state-licensed, Medicare-certified outpatient ambulatory surgical center owned and operated by DDC physicians. It is open from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, and you may call the Center at (850) 942-4706 during these times.

Why Would I Need This Center?

An “endoscopy” is a specialized procedure that allows direct visualization of the GI tract, giving the doctors more information about what may be causing your GI problems. Specialized procedures — diagnostic and therapeutic Endoscopy (including colonoscopy, upper endoscopy and sigmoidoscopy) — are performed at the TEC. Most people find this more convenient than going to a hospital because the Center is inside the DDC building and ample, easy-access parking is available; both the parking lot and the building are wheelchair accessible. The center is staffed by Registered Nurses trained in endoscopy and in Advanced Cardiac Life Support.

Arrangements for TEC care can be made conveniently through the DDC office. The decision to have a procedure done at the Center is based on a patient’s medical history, physician recommendation and, of course, personal preference. DDC physicians — the same ones who staff the Center — will work with you.

What Can I Expect from a Visit to the TEC?

First and foremost, you can expect to receive professional, courteous and compassionate care at the Tallahassee Endoscopy Center. Our primary concern is for your continuing good health.

We’re also concerned about your safety. You must have a responsible adult accompany you to the Center and drive you home after the procedure. And you should wear comfortable clothing to the Center so it will be easy for you to change into a gown. We’ll ask you to tell us about any and all medications you are currently taking and any drug allergies you have. It’s important that you (and we) know that. We’ll also ask you to sign an Informed Consent Form to indicate you have been made aware of the risks and possible complications of the procedure, as well as alternatives to the procedure. (This is a routine part of all medical procedures). We do not honor “Advanced Directives” at the Center.

You’ll be awake during the procedure, but you may feel a bit drowsy because you will receive an “IV” for “conscious sedation.” Afterwards, you’ll rest while the sedative subsides. Then we’ll give you further instructions and answer your questions. And the next morning we’ll call you to see how you’re doing.

Sometimes it’s necessary to remove a polyp or take a biopsy during the procedure. In those instances, the specimens are sent to a lab for analysis, and you can learn the results by calling our LabCalls automated system within 7-14 days.

Remember, because an endoscopy is a specialized procedure, the care you get at the Tallahassee Endoscopy Center will be in addition to treatment provided by the DDC, and you will be billed separately for TEC services.