Dr. Ginger Clark, MD

About Dr. Ginger Clark, MD

Dr. Ginger Clark, MD is a Gastroenterology specialist practicing at UF Health Digestive Disease Specialists in Gainesville, FL. She is deeply dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered care for individuals experiencing digestive system concerns. Registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), Dr. Clark is committed to delivering exceptional care in accordance with the highest professional standards. She is currently welcoming new patients and encourages them to call (352) 273-9400 to schedule an appointment.

Dr. Clark provides comprehensive medical care for patients with disorders of the digestive system, encompassing the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. Serving all ages, she brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to her patients and their families, informed by over 20 years of dedicated experience in Gastroenterological care. Her expertise extends to a particular focus on liver disease, including genetic and metabolic conditions. Dr. Clark is an associate professor of medicine and program director of the gastroenterology fellowship, reflecting her commitment to both patient care and training the next generation of gastroenterologists. She is Board Certified in Gastroenterology by the American Board of Internal Medicine and earned her medical degree from Vanderbilt University in 2003. Dr. Clark provides consultations primarily in English.

Gastroenterological Conditions Addressed

Dr. Ginger Clark addresses a wide range of Gastroenterological health concerns, including:

• Alcoholic Fatty Liver: Excessive alcohol consumption can cause alcoholic fatty liver disease, potentially leading to inflammation and liver damage if left untreated.
• Esophageal Achalasia and Cardiospasm: With achalasia and cardiospasm, the esophagus's lower sphincter remains tight, leading to food build-up and swallowing problems.
• Secondary Biliary Cholangitis: Secondary biliary cholangitis is a condition where the bile ducts become damaged and inflamed, often due to blockages.
• E. coli Food Poisoning: E. coli food poisoning can cause stomach cramps, diarrhea, and sometimes fever.
• Gastrointestinal Malabsorption: If you have gastrointestinal malabsorption, your intestines aren't effectively absorbing nutrients, leading to deficiencies.
• Megacolon: A significantly enlarged colon, known as megacolon, can result in serious bowel problems and requires medical attention.
• Vomiting Disorders: Vomiting disorders can cause frequent or severe episodes of nausea and vomiting, disrupting daily life.
• Hepatitis: Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver.
• Acute Gastritis: Acute gastritis is a temporary irritation of your stomach, often leading to upset stomach symptoms.
• Splenic Infarct: A splenic infarct is a blockage of blood flow to the spleen, potentially causing pain and swelling.
• Liver Abscess: A liver abscess is a pus-filled pocket that develops inside the liver.
• Intestinal Obstruction: Intestinal obstruction is a blockage that prevents food and waste from moving through your intestines.

Please note: This list highlights some common health concerns that Dr. Ginger Clark addresses and is for informational purposes only; it does not constitute medical advice. The range of conditions a Gastroenterology manages is broad, and this list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive understanding of how she can assist with your Patient's specific health needs or to discuss any particular symptoms, it's always best to schedule a consultation. Accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans are developed based on individual patient evaluations.

Gastroenterological Services Provided

Dr. Ginger Clark offers a range of services to support your Patient's health and well-being, such as:

• Colonoscopy: Colonoscopy allows doctors to visually inspect your colon for abnormalities like polyps, inflammation, or cancer.
• Instrumental Diagnostic Evaluation for Dysphagia: This service helps diagnose problems swallowing using specialized tools.
• Endoscopy: During an endoscopy, a doctor uses a small camera to examine your esophagus, stomach, intestines, or other digestive organs.
• Liver Function Test: This blood test helps doctors evaluate your liver's ability to perform its vital functions.
• Bile Duct Procedure: A bile duct procedure involves a medical intervention to address issues in the tubes that carry bile from the liver and gallbladder to the intestine.
• Ultrasound: Our gastroenterology ultrasound service uses sound waves to create images of your digestive system, helping diagnose issues like gallstones or blockages.
• Wireless pH Testing: This test involves swallowing a tiny capsule that tracks stomach acid levels, helping doctors assess your reflux symptoms.
• Liver Biopsy: To check for liver disease, a liver biopsy involves removing a small tissue sample from your liver for testing.
• Removal or Destruction of Rectal or Intestinal Tumor (incl. Colonoscopy: This service provides treatment for tumors in your rectum or intestines, including colonoscopy procedures.
• Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: A flexible sigmoidoscopy is a procedure where a thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into your rectum to examine your lower colon.
• Hepatitis A Screening: This service helps determine if you have hepatitis A.
• Hepatitis Screening: This service helps identify if you have hepatitis, a condition affecting the liver.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Ginger Clark. Service availability can change and not all services listed may be appropriate or offered to every patient. The scope of services provided by a Gastroenterology can vary. For a comprehensive understanding of all available services or to discuss your Patient's specific healthcare needs, it's always best to schedule a consultation. Some specialized procedures or advanced diagnostic tests may require referral to a subspecialist.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Gastroenterologies in Florida and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The Florida Board of Medicine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. Ginger Clark:

What is Gastroenterology?

Gastroenterology is a medical specialty focused on the health of your digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. Dr. Clark and our team of gastroenterologists diagnose, treat, and prevent a wide range of digestive diseases.

What should I expect during my first visit with Dr. Ginger Clark?

Your first visit with Dr. Ginger Clark will involve a detailed review of your digestive health symptoms and medical history, a physical examination, and a discussion of potential diagnostic tests or treatment plans. Please bring a list of all medications you are currently taking and any prior test results for Dr. Clark's review. This helps ensure a thorough and efficient evaluation.

Does Dr. Ginger Clark accept my insurance?

Dr. Clark's office accepts a variety of insurance plans. Please call our office directly to verify your insurance coverage before your appointment.

What is the approach to treating Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

Dr. Clark's approach to Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is multifaceted, focusing on symptom management. This may include dietary strategies like the low-FODMAP diet, lifestyle modifications, stress reduction techniques, and targeted medications to address specific symptoms like pain, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea. We work collaboratively to find the best combination of therapies for your individual needs.

What should I do if I suspect I have gallstones?

If you suspect gallstones, especially with severe abdominal pain, please contact our office to schedule an appointment. Dr. Clark can perform diagnostic tests like an ultrasound to confirm the presence of gallstones and discuss appropriate management options, which may include observation or surgical referral.

What non-surgical treatments does Dr. Ginger Clark offer for hemorrhoids?

Dr. Clark offers several in-office, non-surgical treatments for internal hemorrhoids, including hemorrhoid banding and infrared coagulation. These procedures are effective, minimally invasive, and often resolve symptoms quickly. Recovery time is generally short, and most patients experience significant relief.

How does Dr. Ginger Clark diagnose and manage Celiac Disease?

Dr. Clark diagnoses Celiac disease through blood tests, followed by an upper endoscopy and biopsy for confirmation. Management focuses on educating patients about the gluten-free diet and ensuring strict adherence to it.

Does Dr. Ginger Clark treat liver conditions like hepatitis or fatty liver disease?

Dr. Ginger Clark is experienced in treating liver conditions like hepatitis and fatty liver disease. She uses a comprehensive approach, including blood tests, imaging, and potentially liver biopsies, to accurately diagnose and develop personalized treatment plans to maintain optimal liver health.