Dr. James Scolapio, MD

About Dr. James Scolapio, MD

Dr. James Scolapio, MD is a Gastroenterology specialist practicing at UF Health Gastroenterology - JTB Kernan in Jacksonville, FL. He is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered care for all ages. Dr. Scolapio is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). He provides comprehensive medical care for patients with disorders of the digestive system, encompassing the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. He is currently welcoming new patients, and they are encouraged to call (904) 427-8430 to schedule an appointment.

With over 25 years of dedicated experience in Gastroenterological care, Dr. Scolapio brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. As a University of Florida professor of medicine and board-certified gastroenterologist at UF Health Jacksonville, he also serves as associate chair of the UF Department of Medicine in Jacksonville. Dr. Scolapio received his medical degree from Marshall University and completed his internal medicine residency and gastroenterology fellowship training at the Mayo Graduate School of Medicine. He is Board Certified in Gastroenterology by the American Board of Internal Medicine, and he earned his medical degree from Fairfield University, Graduate School Of Education And Allied Professions in 1997. Dr. James Scolapio provides consultations primarily in English.

Gastroenterological Conditions Addressed

Dr. James Scolapio addresses a wide range of Gastroenterological health concerns, including:

• Intestinal Prolapse: Intestinal prolapse occurs when part of your intestine slides out of its normal position.
• Indigestion: Symptoms of indigestion can range from mild discomfort to intense pain and may be accompanied by nausea or vomiting.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome: IBS is a condition affecting the large intestine, leading to cramping, altered bowel movements (diarrhea or constipation), and discomfort.
• Congenital Anomaly Intestine: This is a birth defect affecting the intestines.
• Proctoptosis: A prolapse of the rectum, known as proctoptosis, can lead to symptoms such as rectal pressure and bleeding.
• Duodenitis: Duodenitis is a condition causing irritation and swelling in the upper part of your small intestine.
• Visceroptosis: Visceroptosis is a condition where the internal organs in your abdomen hang lower than normal.
• Ischemic Colitis: Ischemic colitis is a condition where the blood supply to the colon is reduced, causing pain and inflammation.
• Colon Cancer: It's a type of cancer that begins in the large intestine, and can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated.
• Vitamin_Deficiency: A vitamin deficiency can cause various health problems due to a lack of essential vitamins in your body.
• Reflux Esophagitis: The esophagus becomes inflamed due to frequent exposure to stomach acid, a condition called reflux esophagitis.
• Food Allergy: A food allergy occurs when your immune system mistakenly reacts to a harmless food protein.

Please note: This list highlights some common health concerns that Dr. James Scolapio 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 he 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. James Scolapio offers a range of services to support your Patient's health and well-being, such as:

• Endoscopy: During an endoscopy, a doctor uses a small camera to examine your esophagus, stomach, intestines, or other digestive organs.
• Colon Cancer Screening: Colon cancer screening involves tests to detect colon cancer early, when it's most treatable.
• Rigid Proctosigmoidoscopy: This procedure, a rigid proctosigmoidoscopy, uses a rigid tube with a light to view the rectum and the lower part of your large intestine to help diagnose conditions.
• Colonoscopy: During a colonoscopy, your doctor can remove polyps or take tissue samples for further testing.
• Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: During a flexible sigmoidoscopy, a doctor uses a lighted, flexible scope to visualize the sigmoid colon and rectum, checking for abnormalities.
• Hepatitis C Virus Screening: This service screens for hepatitis C virus infection.
• Hepatitis Screening: This service helps identify hepatitis, a liver infection, through testing.
• Hepatitis B Virus Screening: This service checks for the hepatitis B virus to help identify if you have the infection.
• Impedance Testing: Impedance testing helps doctors identify issues with the electrical signals in your digestive tract, specifically your esophagus.
• Liver Biopsy: Doctors perform a liver biopsy to get a tissue sample from your liver, which is then analyzed to detect liver damage or disease.
• Screening Colonoscopy: A screening colonoscopy is a preventative procedure to check for abnormalities in your large intestine, such as polyps that could become cancerous.
• Sigmoidoscopy: Sigmoidoscopy allows doctors to visualize the lower part of your large intestine (sigmoid colon) to detect abnormalities like polyps or inflammation.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. James Scolapio. 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. James Scolapio:

What is Gastroenterology?

Gastroenterology is a medical specialty that focuses on the health of your digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. A gastroenterologist diagnoses, treats, and prevents a wide range of digestive diseases.

What should I expect during my first visit with Dr. James Scolapio?

Your first visit with Dr. Scolapio 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 relevant prior test results to help us provide the best possible care.

Does Dr. James Scolapio accept my insurance?

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

Does Dr. James Scolapio treat liver conditions like hepatitis or fatty liver disease?

Dr. Scolapio is experienced in treating liver conditions like hepatitis and fatty liver disease. He utilizes a comprehensive approach, including blood tests, imaging, and potentially a liver biopsy, to accurately diagnose and develop personalized treatment plans focused on managing liver health.

What treatments does Dr. James Scolapio offer for acid reflux and GERD?

Dr. Scolapio offers a comprehensive approach to GERD management, encompassing lifestyle and dietary modifications, medication options, and diagnostic testing like upper endoscopy or pH monitoring to precisely tailor treatment plans.

What non-surgical treatments does Dr. James Scolapio offer for hemorrhoids?

Dr. Scolapio offers effective, minimally invasive treatments for internal hemorrhoids, including hemorrhoid banding and infrared coagulation. These in-office procedures are often successful in relieving symptoms and are a viable alternative to surgery.

How does Dr. James Scolapio diagnose and manage Celiac Disease?

Dr. Scolapio diagnoses celiac disease through a combination of blood tests and a confirming upper endoscopy with biopsy. Management focuses on educating patients about the gluten-free diet and ensuring strict adherence to this dietary plan.

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

Dr. Scolapio's approach to Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is multifaceted, encompassing dietary strategies like the low-FODMAP diet, lifestyle modifications, stress management techniques, and targeted medications to address symptoms such as pain, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea. We work collaboratively to find the best combination of therapies to optimize your comfort and well-being.