Dr. Tawfik Chami, MD

About Dr. Tawfik Chami, MD

Dr. Tawfik Chami, MD is a Gastroenterology specialist dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered care at his clinic in Zephyrhills, FL. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). He brings over 40 years of dedicated experience in Gastroenterological care, a wealth of clinical knowledge, and compassionate care to his patients and their families. Dr. Chami volunteers his time as a preceptor for upcoming medical students at the University of South Florida College of Medicine and has dedicated his medical skills to the Judeo Christian Health System for many years. He is married and enjoys spending his free time with his family, reading, and running.

I provide comprehensive medical care for patients with disorders of the digestive system, encompassing the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. My practice focuses on the comprehensive medical care of all ages, and I am currently welcoming new patients. Please call (813) 780-7534 to schedule an appointment. Dr. Chami earned his medical degree from the University of Damascus, Faculty of Medicine in 1982, followed by internships at Aria Health - Frankford Campus and Frankford Hospital. He completed residency training in Gastroenterology at Fell Fs Key Med Ctr/J Hopki and Md General Hospital, and pursued fellowship training in Fs Key Med Ctr/Johns Hopkin. He is Board Certified in Gastroenterology by the American Board of Internal Medicine, and Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. My approach to care is rooted in evidence-based medicine, emphasizing patient education, collaborative decision-making, and creating a supportive and reassuring environment for all patients. Dr. Tawfik Chami offers consultations in Arabic.

Gastroenterological Conditions Addressed

Dr. Tawfik Chami addresses a wide range of Gastroenterological health concerns, including:

• Biliary Atresia: In babies with biliary atresia, the bile ducts are damaged or absent, leading to a buildup of bile in the liver and jaundice.
• Infectious Diarrheal Disease: Diarrhea caused by infection is characterized by loose or watery stools, often accompanied by other gastrointestinal symptoms.
• Familial Adenomatous Polyposis: People with FAP inherit a gene mutation leading to the formation of many colorectal polyps, making them much more likely to develop colon or rectal cancer.
• Congenital Achalasia: Achalasia, when present at birth (congenital), causes problems with the esophagus's ability to move food down to the stomach.
• Vitamin_Deficiency: A vitamin deficiency can cause various health problems due to a lack of essential vitamins in your body.
• Esophageal Achalasia and Cardiospasm: Esophageal achalasia and cardiospasm are conditions where the lower esophageal sphincter muscle doesn't relax properly, making it hard to swallow.
• Colorectal Cancer: Colorectal cancer develops in the large intestine, the final part of your digestive system.
• Ileus: Ileus is a blockage in your intestines that prevents food and stool from moving through normally.
• Duodenal Ulcer: Duodenal ulcers are caused by an imbalance between stomach acid and the protective lining of the duodenum.
• Crohn: Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory condition that can affect any part of the digestive tract.
• Hepatitis B - Immune Response: Hepatitis B - Immune Response refers to how your body's immune system fights off the Hepatitis B virus.
• Ischemic Colitis: Ischemic colitis is a condition where the blood supply to the colon is reduced, causing pain and inflammation.

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

• Sigmoidoscopy: A sigmoidoscopy is a minimally invasive test used to examine the lower colon and rectum for abnormalities, often used for screening or diagnosing colorectal issues.
• Hepatitis Screening: This service helps detect hepatitis, a liver infection, to ensure early diagnosis and treatment.
• Rigid Proctosigmoidoscopy: During a rigid proctosigmoidoscopy, a doctor uses a firm, lighted instrument to visually inspect the lower part of your large intestine for polyps, inflammation, or bleeding.
• Hepatitis C Virus Screening: This service checks for hepatitis C virus infection.
• Impedance Testing: Impedance testing measures the electrical activity in your esophagus to help diagnose swallowing problems.
• Colorectal Cancer Screening: Colorectal cancer screening is recommended for adults starting at age 45, or earlier if you have a family history or other risk factors.
• Biliary Drainage: Biliary drainage is a procedure to remove blocked bile from the liver and gallbladder.
• 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.
• Ultrasound: Our gastroenterological ultrasound service uses sound waves to create images of your digestive system, helping diagnose potential problems.
• Hepatitis B Virus Screening: This service screens for hepatitis B virus infection.
• Hepatitis A Screening: This service helps determine if you have hepatitis A.
• Liver Function Test: A liver function test (LFT) measures how well your liver is working.

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

What is Gastroenterology?

Gastroenterology is a medical specialty focused on the health of the 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. Tawfik Chami?

Your first visit with Dr. Chami will involve a comprehensive 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. Chami's review.

Does Dr. Tawfik Chami accept my insurance?

We understand that verifying insurance coverage is important. Please call our office directly with your insurance information to confirm Dr. Chami's acceptance.

What treatments does Dr. Tawfik Chami offer for acid reflux and GERD?

Dr. Chami offers a comprehensive approach to GERD, addressing it with lifestyle and dietary modifications, medication management, and diagnostic testing (like upper endoscopy or pH monitoring) to precisely tailor treatment.

How does Dr. Tawfik Chami manage Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)?

Dr. Chami's approach to managing IBD focuses on achieving long-term remission through a combination of medications, including biologics, and close monitoring of disease activity. He emphasizes a collaborative care model, involving patients and their families, to optimize treatment plans and address any concerns. Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to assess response to therapy and adjust the treatment plan as needed.

How does Dr. Tawfik Chami diagnose and manage Celiac Disease?

Dr. Chami 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 this lifestyle change.

Does Dr. Tawfik Chami manage conditions of the pancreas, like pancreatitis?

Dr. Chami is experienced in diagnosing and managing pancreatic conditions, including pancreatitis. He investigates the causes, manages symptoms of acute or chronic pancreatitis, and monitors for potential complications.

Does Dr. Tawfik Chami treat liver conditions like hepatitis or fatty liver disease?

Dr. Chami is experienced in diagnosing and managing various liver conditions, including hepatitis and fatty liver disease. He utilizes a comprehensive approach, incorporating blood tests, imaging, and potentially liver biopsy, to accurately assess the condition. He then develops personalized treatment plans to promote optimal liver health.