The opening of the University of Wisconsin Digestive Health Center (DHC) on April 8, 2013 created the region’s finest multi-disciplinary outpatient clinic serving patients with diseases of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, anorectum, liver, gallbladder/biliary tree, and pancreas. Located on the corner of University Avenue and Whitney Way, the $24 million project is part of a $100 million, 14-acre campus development.
The Abdominal Imaging and Intervention Section has a full-time radiologist stationed at the Digestive Health Center, who is not only primarily responsible for covering the diagnostic imaging performed as part of the integrated care at the facility but also provides basic procedural care, including paracentesis. In addition, the world-renowned University of Wisconsin Virtual Colonoscopy Program is continuing to expand its clinical and research excellence by providing both screening and diagnostic examinations at the facility. During construction of this facility, Dr. Michael Lucey, chief of the Department of Medicine’s Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology noted, “We have a national reputation for excellence in digestive health services, and this new facility will enhance the patient’s experience, and meet the increasing complexities of our patient population.”
The UW Digestive Health Center continues to eliminate the barriers between the multidisciplinary groups that care for patients with digestive issues, and represents a unique, unified approach that results in an efficient, patient-centric, and comprehensive experience.
The three-story building is 67,000 square feet (21 clinic exam rooms, four minor procedure rooms, 14 endoscopy rooms, 49 prep/recovery rooms), and provides comprehensive radiology services. The radiology equipment sited at DHC includes a state-of the-art CT scanner, a GE E9 US machine with a dedicated sonographer, a fluoroscopy suite, and radiography.
University Hospital is currently ranked among the nation’s top 50 hospitals in the treatment of digestive disorders and this exceptional, world-class addition helps us provide even better patient care.