Find a Doctor & Understand Costs
When to see a specialist, what the visit looks like, how much it all costs, and where to save.
When Your PCP Isn't Enough
Your regular doctor handles most reflux cases fine. But there are clear signals it's time for a gastroenterologist:
- Symptoms persist after 2+ weeks of OTC treatment
- Trouble swallowing or food getting stuck
- Weight loss you can't explain
- You've been on PPIs for months and nobody's talked about next steps
- Family history of Barrett's esophagus or esophageal cancer
Find a Gastroenterologist Near You
DrFinder.ai helps you locate board-certified GI specialists in your area.
Search DrFinder.aiWhat Happens at a GI Appointment
How often, how bad, what triggers it, how long this has been going on. Bring a rough timeline.
Quick check. Nothing invasive at this stage.
Endoscopy (EGD), pH monitoring, or manometry depending on what they're seeing.
Personalized next steps. Might be a med change, might be "let's scope you," might be lifestyle work.
Visits typically run 20-30 minutes. Bring your current med list.
PCP vs. Gastroenterologist
Initial evaluation, mild-moderate symptoms, lifestyle counseling, first-line meds. Most reflux cases can stay here.
Persistent symptoms, Barrett's screening, endoscopy, failed medication trials, or when surgery is being discussed.
What It Costs
| Service | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| PCP Visit | $150 - $300 | $20 - $50 copay |
| GI Specialist | $250 - $500 | $30 - $75 copay |
| Upper Endoscopy | $1,500 - $3,500 | $200 - $800 |
| pH Monitoring | $500 - $1,500 | $100 - $400 |
| Anti-Reflux Surgery | $10,000 - $25,000 | $2,000 - $6,000 |
Ranges vary by location. Always confirm with your provider and insurer.
Saving on Medications
Go generic, always. Generic omeprazole is $4-10/month and works identically to Prilosec. Shop around because prices vary wildly between pharmacies.
Compare Prescription Prices
The same drug can cost 10x more at one pharmacy vs another.
Check RxSaver.ai