Dr. Roland Shepard, MD

About Dr. Roland Shepard, MD

Dr. Roland Shepard, MD is a Gastroenterology specialist practicing at our Tampa, FL clinic, dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered care. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). Dr. Shepard was born and raised in Florida, is married with three children, and enjoys spending time with friends and family. With over 35 years of dedicated experience in Gastroenterological care, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families, having earned his medical degree from the University of South Carolina School of Medicine Columbia in 1987 and completed residency training in Gastroenterology at University Community Hospital.

I provide comprehensive medical care for patients with disorders of the digestive system, encompassing the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. I serve all ages and am committed to evidence-based medicine, patient education, collaborative decision-making, and providing a supportive, reassuring environment for patients. Currently, I am not accepting new patients, but you can call (813) 355-5962 to inquire about waitlists or future openings. Dr. Roland Shepard provides consultations primarily in English.

Gastroenterological Conditions Addressed

Dr. Roland Shepard addresses a wide range of Gastroenterological health concerns, including:

• Gastrointestinal Malabsorption: Gastrointestinal malabsorption means your body isn't absorbing nutrients from food properly.
• Pyloric Stenosis: Pyloric stenosis is a condition where the opening between the stomach and small intestine narrows, making it difficult for food to pass.
• Duodenitis: Experiencing pain or discomfort in your upper abdomen could be a sign of duodenitis, an inflammation of your duodenum.
• Barrett: Barrett's esophagus is a condition where the lining of the esophagus changes, increasing the risk of esophageal cancer.
• Esophageal Diverticulum: An esophageal diverticulum is a pouch or bulge that develops in the esophagus, the tube connecting your mouth and stomach.
• Non-Neonatal Jaundice: Non-neonatal jaundice is yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes in individuals older than one month.
• Autoimmune Hepatitis: Autoimmune hepatitis is a type of liver inflammation caused by the body's immune system attacking its own liver cells.
• Familial Adenomatous Polyposis: FAP is a genetic disorder where hundreds or thousands of benign growths (polyps) develop in the large intestine, substantially raising the chance of colorectal cancer.
• Esophagitis: Esophagitis is irritation and swelling of the lining of your esophagus, often causing discomfort.
• Chronic Gastritis: With chronic gastritis, the lining of your stomach is persistently inflamed, often causing discomfort.
• Giardiasis: Giardia, a parasite, causes giardiasis, an infection marked by diarrhea, stomach cramps, and gas.
• Anal or Rectal Pain: I have persistent pain around my anus.

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

• ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography): If you have issues with your bile ducts or pancreas, an ERCP might be used to identify the problem and perform minimally invasive treatment.
• Colorectal Cancer Screening: Screening for colorectal cancer may include colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, or stool tests to check for blood or abnormal cells.
• 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.
• Gallbladder Scan: This gallbladder scan helps your doctor evaluate your gallbladder's health.
• VAP Lipid Testing: This service measures the levels of fats (lipids) in your blood to help assess your risk of respiratory complications.
• Hemorrhoidectomy or Excision of Anal Tags: Surgery to remove hemorrhoids (piles) and anal skin tags is called a hemorrhoidectomy or anal tag excision.
• Wireless pH Testing: A small, wireless sensor is used to monitor the pH in your esophagus over 24-48 hours, providing detailed information about acid exposure.
• Anal Cauterization: Anal cauterization uses heat to stop bleeding or destroy abnormal tissue in the anus.
• Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: A flexible sigmoidoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to screen for and detect colorectal problems in the lower part of the large intestine.
• Screening Colonoscopy: A screening colonoscopy is a preventative procedure to check for abnormalities in your large intestine, such as polyps that could become cancerous.
• Duodenal Polypectomy: If a polyp is found in your duodenum, a procedure called a duodenal polypectomy can be used to safely take it out.
• Instrumental Diagnostic Evaluation for Dysphagia: This service helps diagnose problems swallowing using specialized tools.

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

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 helps prevent a variety of digestive issues.

What should I expect during my first visit with Dr. Roland Shepard?

Your first visit with Dr. Shepard will involve a comprehensive review of your digestive health symptoms and medical history. A physical examination will follow, and we'll discuss potential diagnostic tests or treatment plans. Please bring a list of your medications and any relevant prior test results.

Does Dr. Roland Shepard accept my insurance?

Dr. Shepard's office accepts many insurance plans, but to confirm coverage for your specific plan, please call our office directly with your insurance information.

Does Dr. Roland Shepard treat liver conditions like hepatitis or fatty liver disease?

Dr. Shepard is experienced in hepatology and treats various liver conditions, including hepatitis and fatty liver disease. He utilizes a comprehensive approach, including blood tests, imaging, and potentially liver biopsies, to accurately diagnose and develop personalized treatment plans to maintain optimal liver health.

How does Dr. Roland Shepard diagnose and manage Celiac Disease?

Dr. Shepard 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 prevent further complications.

What non-surgical treatments does Dr. Roland Shepard offer for hemorrhoids?

Dr. Shepard offers several effective, minimally invasive options for treating internal hemorrhoids, including hemorrhoid banding and infrared coagulation. These in-office procedures are often successful in relieving symptoms and are a good alternative to surgery.

How does Dr. Roland Shepard manage Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)?

Dr. Shepard's approach to managing IBD focuses on achieving long-term remission through a combination of medication (including biologics), regular monitoring of disease activity, and a collaborative care plan involving the patient, their family, and other healthcare providers. This personalized strategy aims to minimize symptoms and maintain overall well-being.

What treatments does Dr. Roland Shepard offer for acid reflux and GERD?

Dr. Shepard offers a comprehensive approach to GERD management, including lifestyle and dietary adjustments, medication options, and diagnostic testing like endoscopy or pH monitoring to tailor treatment plans for optimal outcomes.