September 2026

No Buts About It: Colonoscopy is an Essential Health Screen

Putting off your colonoscopy? Watch this first.

For many people, the hardest part of a first colonoscopy may be not knowing what to expect. Valley patient Sean recently went through the process for the first time, and found that everything from the prep to the procedure was more manageable than he anticipated. 

In our new video, Sean takes you through his experience step by step, while gastroenterologist Brandon Teng, MD, explains what happens before, during, and after a colonoscopy—and why this important screening can help detect and prevent colorectal cancer. Watch the video to see what you can expect from your first colonoscopy. 

ICYMI: Valley Brings Advanced Endoscopy Ultrasound Technology to the PNW
We are proud to be the first hospital in the Pacific Northwest to offer the newest endoscopy ultrasound technology, giving patients access to one of the most advanced tools available for diagnosing diseases of the digestive system. Learn more. 

7 Things Your GI Health Team Wants You to Know About Fatty Liver Disease (MASLD)

Are you keeping your liver healthy? The liver is an important part of your body, performing hundreds of functions every day. It regulates your blood sugar and fat, processes nutrients, and stores vitamins and minerals, just to name a few of the liver's vital jobs.

MASLD and MASH, sometimes known as fatty liver disease, are becoming increasingly common, so we asked our Gastroenterology (GI) Clinic and a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with our Lifestyle Medicine Clinic what people should know about this type of liver disease. Read what you should know about MASLD.

Bite-Sized Tip: Fit Fiber Into Your Day

• Fiber feeds healthy gut bacteria. Healthy bacteria aids in digestion, supports the immune system, and helps protect you against harmful bacteria.
• It helps control blood sugar by slowing down your digestion and absorption of nutrients, which promotes steadier blood sugar levels.
• Fiber supports a healthy heart by removing harmful cholesterol from our bodie.
• It supports weight management and appetite regulation by helping you feel full and satisfied from eating.
• Fiber helps prevent constipation and promotes healthy digestion. Simply put, it helps keep your body's "plumbing" regular!

ICYMI: What's Your Poo Telling You?

In general, people don't like to talk about their bowel movements, but if there's a change in your stools, your care team wants to hear about it! We had a quick chat with the ARNPs at Valley's Gastroenterology Clinic for the scoop on poop. 

HealthPoint Kent East Hill Now Open for Patients

Learn more about Valley’s partnership with HealthPoint and how to schedule an appointment.

Is it time to schedule your family’s fall check-ups? Do you need to establish care with a new primary care provider?
Our partners at HealthPoint are now open and accepting new patients at the Kent East Hill location!

Located at the site of Valley’s former Kent Primary Care Clinic, the Kent East Hill Clinic provides integrated primary care, behavioral health, immunizations, family planning, pregnancy and reproductive health care, and physical and annual exams. Pharmacy and dental services are expected to be available at the clinic in 2027.

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Content in this newsletter is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace the guidance of a medical professional.