Digestive Disease Consultants

Colonoscopies at Digestive Disease Consultants use advanced imaging to detect and prevent colorectal cancer through early identification of polyps or abnormalities. Our physicians perform this outpatient procedure with sedation for patient comfort, following strict safety protocols. Preparation instructions and post-procedure care guidance are provided to ensure accurate results and minimal disruption to daily life.

Endoscopic procedures (EGD) examine the upper digestive tract to diagnose conditions like GERD, ulcers, and Barrett's esophagus. Using a flexible scope with high-definition camera, our specialists visualize the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum in real time. Biopsies can be taken during the procedure to test for infections or inflammation, enabling precise treatment planning.

Our hepatology experts provide comprehensive management for hepatitis B and C, including antiviral therapies and liver function monitoring. Treatment plans integrate the latest research and FDA-approved medications to achieve sustained virologic response. Patients receive education on lifestyle modifications to support liver health and prevent disease progression.

FibroScan technology non-invasively assesses liver stiffness to detect fibrosis or cirrhosis without requiring a biopsy. This 10-minute test measures fat accumulation and scarring levels, guiding treatment decisions for fatty liver disease and chronic hepatitis. Results are immediately available for discussion during the patient's visit.

Regular colon cancer screenings starting at age 45 (or earlier for high-risk patients) help prevent cancer through polyp removal and early detection. Our practice offers multiple screening options, including colonoscopy and stool DNA tests, with personalized recommendations based on family history and risk factors to maximize patient compliance and outcomes.

Dr. Katz earned his medical degree from Case Western Reserve University in 1985. He specializes in gastroenterology with a focus on digestive disorders and preventive care.

Dr. Reddy graduated from the University of Miami School of Medicine in 1998. He has extensive experience in advanced endoscopic procedures and liver disease management.

Dr. Zapatier received his medical degree from the University of Guayaquil in 2003. He specializes in inflammatory bowel disease and gastrointestinal motility disorders.

Hanna Agard, APRN, earned her MSN from the University of South Florida. She provides patient education and coordinates care for complex digestive health conditions.

Dr. Shephard practiced gastroenterology for decades before retiring in 2025. He was recognized for his contributions to digestive disease research and patient care.

We treat conditions including GERD, irritable bowel syndrome, colon cancer, hepatitis, celiac disease, and inflammatory bowel disorders using evidence-based approaches.

Request an appointment online or by phone. Our staff will confirm details and provide preparation instructions tailored to your specific needs.

Yes, all our gastroenterologists are board-certified with decades of combined experience in digestive health management and advanced procedures.

We participate in most major insurance networks. Check our website for accepted providers or contact our billing department for verification.

Our combination of academic expertise, personalized care, and community focus has earned us recognition as Orlando's top gastroenterology practice for over 20 years.

Use our secure patient portal to view test results, schedule appointments, and communicate directly with our clinical team 24/7.

I have been to DDC 3 times over 2 years. The first time was fine enough given the task at hand. The 2 subsequent visits were an excercise in unresponsiveness. Best I can tell the bottleneck is Angelica on Dr. Z's team. Dr. Z. Himself is a competent and capable Dr. but his admin team does him a disservice. I had scheduling that was not made, wasting time for me and others as well as delaying my treatment.

I also had a mishandled phone call requiring me to return twice in a week rather than having a one visit treatment requiring sedation. After not having my scheduling handled correctly, I called Monday and had no call returned. Called Tuesday, and finally got someone to schedule the x-ray and out patient procedure. I would likely seek out Dr. Z in an environment outside the advent scheduling department if I have to return as the admin staff is borderline negligent.

Very pleased with this health care facility. All employees that I came in contact with were very professional. Thank you Dr S. Reddy for the great care you give your patients.

This was my first colonoscopy I was very scared and nervous my anxiety was through the roof. Dr Zapatier team took care of me made sure I was comfortable and checked on me the next day. Thank you Dr Z for making my first experience a good one.

Thank you to the staff, Dr. Raaj Popli for explaining things well, Dr. Jeremiah Pastor CRNA for taking such great care of me, Annie RN and all the people who helped me today. I had a great experience with a high level of care. I'm grateful for the kindness and care I received.

Everyone was very kind. I had ample time to ask questions and to talk with the anesthesia doctor which put me more at ease. I don't have any memory of the procedures done. I'm very happy about that. Dr. Katz came by recovery and let me know my results. Very professional.

First, this survey is supposed to be for me not my husband Eddie, it has the wrong name on it. I found palm endoscopy to be very inefficient And their procedures are not good compared to the Oviedo Medical Center in the surgical center on university Boulevard. I was put in a room and left there for about 20 minutes. Finally, the nurse who put me there came back and gave me a warm blanket because I was freezing.

My appointment was at 12:30 but I did not see another nurse (a different nurse ) until 1240 to go over the paperwork. Another nurse came in a little later to start my IV and give me a bag of fluids. At no time did anyone tell me that the doctor was behind schedule, I had to ask. I had to walk from the prep room to the The room where the procedure was going to take place. I had to carry my IV bag, what kind of nonsense is this?

My procedure did not start until about 145. I have had procedures at the surgical center on University Boulevard in the Oviedo medical center and I found the staff to be very efficient and no one ever left me uninformed or deserted in a room. Everyone was friendly, However, this experience is my first and last at Palm endoscopy.

Dr. Z is the coolest doctor ever (!), but literally - I showed up to my procedure in the hospital and the staff said "oh the doctor left, you're not on the schedule" after I had to PREP and STARVE the entire previous day. Arguably the biggest screwup I've ever encountered from any medical practice/doctor's office. And I had confirmed this appointment over the phone with his assistant Angelica, so yeah. not sure what happened but bottom line - NOT COOL. The staff has not called me back to reschedule nor to make this situation right.