Procedures
Low-Cost Vasectomies
What is it?
Vasectomy is a form of male birth control that cuts the supply of sperm to your semen. It’s done by cutting and sealing the tubes that carry sperm. Vasectomy has a low risk of problems and is performed regularly here at Full Circle Health by highly-skilled and trained physicians, all at a low-cost. The procedure is very quick, and you can go home the same day.
Why it’s done…
Vasectomy is a safe and effective birth control choice for men who are certain they don’t want to father a child in the future. Vasectomies are meant to be permanent — so they usually can’t be reversed. You should only get a vasectomy if you’re 100% positive you don’t want to be able to get someone pregnant for the rest of your life.
- Vasectomy is nearly 100 percent effective in preventing pregnancy.
- Vasectomy is an outpatient surgery with a low risk of complications or side effects.
- The cost of a vasectomy is far less than the cost of female sterilization (tubal ligation) or the long-term cost of birth control medications for women.
- A vasectomy means you won’t need to take birth control steps before sex, such as putting on a condom.
If you would like to get started on the process, you may call us at (208) 514-2500 and speak with our healthcare team – we’d be happy to assist you and answer any of your questions.
Colonoscopies & EGD
Colonoscopy: What is it?
A colonoscopy is an exam used to detect changes or abnormalities in the large intestine (colon) and rectum.
During a colonoscopy, a long, flexible tube (colonoscope) is inserted into the rectum. A tiny video camera at the tip of the tube allows the doctor to view the inside of the entire colon.
If necessary, polyps or other types of abnormal tissue can be removed through the scope during a colonoscopy. Tissue samples (biopsies) can be taken during a colonoscopy as well.
Why it’s done
Your doctor may recommend a colonoscopy to:
- Investigate intestinal signs and symptoms. A colonoscopy can help your doctor explore possible causes of abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, chronic constipation, chronic diarrhea and other intestinal problems.
- Screen for colon cancer. If you’re age 50 or older and at average risk of colon cancer — you have no colon cancer risk factors other than age — your doctor may recommend a colonoscopy every 10 years or sometimes sooner to screen for colon cancer. Colonoscopy is one option for colon cancer screening. Talk with your doctor about your options.
- Look for more polyps. If you have had polyps before, your doctor may recommend a follow-up colonoscopy to look for and remove any additional polyps. This is done to reduce your risk of colon cancer.
If you would like to learn more or get started in making an appointment, you may call us at (208) 514-2500 and speak with our healthcare team – we’d be happy to assist you, get you scheduled, and answer any of your questions.
Upper Endoscopy (EGD): What is it?
An EGD is a procedure your doctor will perform to examine the lining of your esophagus, stomach and duodenum (first section of small intestine). An upper endoscopy provides visibility into the upper portion of your digestive system. The doctor will insert a flexible tube into your mouth, down your esophagus, into the stomach and small bowel looking for abnormalities.
Why it’s done…
Your doctor may suggest an upper endoscopy to investigate symptoms such as:
- nausea
- vomiting
- abdominal tenderness
- difficulty swallowing
- or gastrointestinal bleeding.
The findings of an upper endoscopy often include the keys to diagnosing and treating whatever it is that’s causing digestive discomfort.
We encourage you to speak with your primary care physician to determine if this procedure is something you need. You can call us for an appointment at (208) 514-2500, we’d be happy to assist you and answer any of your questions.
Skin Biopsies
What is it?
A skin biopsy is a procedure to remove cells or skin samples from your body for laboratory examination. Our physicians use a skin biopsy to diagnose skin conditions and to remove abnormal tissue.
The three main types of skin biopsies are:
- Shave biopsy. Our doctors will use a tool similar to a razor to remove a small section of the top layers of skin (epidermis and a portion of the dermis).
- Punch biopsy. Our doctors will use a circular tool to remove a small core of skin, including deeper layers (epidermis, dermis and superficial fat).
- Excisional biopsy. Our doctors will use a small knife (scalpel) to remove an entire lump or an area of abnormal skin, including a portion of normal skin down to or through the fatty layer of skin.
Why it’s done…
A skin biopsy is used to diagnose or help treat skin conditions and diseases, including:
- Actinic keratosis
- Bullous pemphigoid and other blistering skin disorders
- Inflammatory skin conditions
- Skin cancers, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma
- Skin infection, occasionally
- Skin tags
- Suspicious moles or other growths
- Warts
If you have concerns about your skin, please make an appointment and your doctor can discuss these concerns with you to determine if a skin biopsy is required.
Sliding Fee Discount Program
Services, including specialty care services, are covered for sliding fee patients. Full Circle Health offers a sliding fee discount program to eligible persons based on the patient’s ability to pay. Ability to pay is determined by the household size and annual income relative to a discount schedule based on federal poverty income guidelines.
Click HERE to apply for Sliding Fee
We are happy to see patients both with and without insurance coverage!