Mark J. Cossentino MD PA

OK, I think I’m healthy and don’t need any medical help and, of course, I am a middle-​aged male (56), but after hearing Clark Howard (whom I greatly respect) advocate getting a colonoscopy, made the appointment. There are plenty of highly qualified specialists here in El Paso, but I went to the doctor that my wife had had such a successful procedure with. I was not disappointed! Following my initial contact with him in his office in the Sierra Medicat Tower, arrangements were made for the procedure at the Foundation Surgical Hospital of El Paso, 03JUN2013. Due to another comittment, Dr. Cossentino bumped up my colonoscopy from (10:30) to (07:00), which was just fine with me. [I have a distinct aversion to hospitals, surgeries, medication – most males known what I’m speaking about!] Early in, early out, don’t mess around, I say. In fact, there was no messing around, though some levity, which always makes the knife cut easier (thouigh no knife is used in a colonoscopy) was applied, primarily between myself and his team. Part of that is my fault; I am always eager to find out from other workers about how they came to be where they are – my paid employment is providing information to high school students about future jobs, and the best source for learning this is from the workers. Anyway, I was a bit concerned that I could still hold a conversation, even after Dr. Cossentino had arrived. Wouldn’t it hurt…
When I saw my wife, I dressed myself as best I could – still a bit under the influence, I was, and nearly fell into the curtain – and she drove us home, earlier today. It is difficult for me to believe how efficient this whole process was; heck, it’s almost fun! Almost.
The prep for involves fasting – except for fresh water, green jello, broth – 24 hours prior to anesthesia, restricting me from my usual physical tasks (bicycling), though I admit pedaling a short distance yesterday am [please see my tweets] because it was too similar to when I pedaled across TX in 2011, on a day of famine. [Bicycle touring, for me, is always ‘feast and famine’!] During the prep, dehydration is a great concern for anybody who takes Moviprep, so not only did I drink ample water (and El PasoTX-​USA water out of the tap is EXCELLENT, great tasting and great for you, unlike other metropolitan areas) I also kept tabs on my weight loss, which wasn’t too bad.
As I sit here writing this, I reflect on how well this entire procedure went. First, my wife had great success, which is significant because my regular MD had recommended a different specialist. Second, making the initial appointment was extremely easy (915.351.7200) in his office, where all of the staff were friendly, courteous, and professional. Then, when I went to the Foundation Surgical Hospital of El Paso (1416 George Dieter, Eastside), all of the personnel there were likewise courteous and professional. Then, when Dr. Cossentino needed to bump up my time, the collaboration between his office and the hospital ensured that all parameters were correct for my early arrival. Once in hospital, RN Norma & assistants Francisco & Cuca ensured that I was comfortable, calm, and ready to go. After Dr. Cossentino arrived and greeted me, the next thing I knew was my wife helping me.
Folks, I tell you that Dr. Cossentino and his team were fantastic, along with the hospital. If you are middle-​aged and as hard-​headed as I am, get this procedure done. I highly recommend following the same route I did – all of the people I met and conferred with are absolutely top-​notch.