Guam Regional Medical City introduces Capsule Endoscopy Service in collaboration with several agencies

Guam Regional Medical City is proud to announce the launch of an advanced capsule endoscopy service, offering a new, minimally invasive solution for digestive health diagnostics. 

This service represents an advancement in gastrointestinal healthcare for Guam and the surrounding region. 

Supported by a grant from the USDA Rural Development Program, this new service shows GRMC and local leadership’s commitment in advancing healthcare access and quality for Guam’s residents.

Capsule endoscopy offers a convenient, patient-friendly alternative to traditional endoscopic procedures by allowing patients to ingest a small, pill-sized camera, which captures detailed images of the gastrointestinal tract as it passes through the digestive system. 

This approach is particularly effective for detecting and diagnosing conditions, such as Crohn’s disease, small intestine bleeding, and other GI issues without the need for sedation or invasive techniques.

The project offers a unique seamless telemedicine into the capsule endoscopy procedure through a specialty company GI Digital called “Tele-GI.”

Not only can the video created by the capsule be analyzed remotely, ultimately the capsule could be ingested at the home of the patient or in their community, further increasing the convenience.

GI Digital is also the telecommunications contractor assigned to facilitate the telemedical integrations between GRMC, USC, and any other stakeholder.

“We are thrilled to offer this new diagnostic tool, which provides a less invasive, more comfortable experience for patients,” said Dr. Alexander “Beau” Wielaard, GRMC CEO. “With the support of the USDA, we are expanding access to state-of-the-art medical services that directly benefit our community’s health and wellness.”

The USDA has highlighted this development as part of its broader commitment to enhancing Guam’s healthcare infrastructure. 

“Our department is proud to support GRMC in bringing such advanced technology to Guam,” said Robert Machado, General Field Representative United States Department of Agriculture. “This service aligns with our goal of making high-quality healthcare accessible on the island, and it demonstrates the kind of progress we aim to bring to our community’s healthcare system.”

Capsule endoscopy is expected to reduce travel needs for patients seeking specialized GI diagnostics and provide doctors with precise imaging that aids in early diagnosis and treatment planning. 

“I am genuinely excited about the collaboration amongst our hospitals and the strides we are making to enhance GI care through the new capsule endoscopy program. This innovative service brings advanced diagnostic options within reach for everyone in Guam, representing a significant step forward in accessible, high-quality gastrointestinal healthcare for our entire community,” added Dr. Aguon.