GI Alliance physicians are among the most reputable and distinguished gastroenterologists across the nation. Focused on clinical excellence and patient-centered care, our specialists seek to be the partner you need in your quest for better health. We value patient feedback and appreciate every review we receive from those we are privileged to treat. For your convenience, we have gathered a collection of reviews, stories, and testimonials provided by patients who have visited our practices. We welcome you to explore the feedback below to learn more about what it means to be a patient of GI Alliance.
"My experience with Gastro Consultants and Dr. Shaffer were stellar! I had NO difficulty with the anesthesia or the procedure. The staff was super effecient and everyone was helpful and professional. I would recommend Dr. Shaffers services to anyone who requires Gastrointestinal services."
"I would like to thank Dr. Richard T. Shaffer and his medical team for their outstanding care and treatment they provided. I was immediately seen on my scheduled appointment time. I would highly recommend Dr. Shaffer"
"Let's face it...nobody says, "hey I want to get a colonoscopy today", but when you need to I highly recommend Dr. Shaffer! The experience was seemless and he certainly checked out my clean pipes lol"
"Kudos to the group supporting Dr Shaffer and company. The two ladies at check-in were delightful, efficient and helped me through a difficult situation with my insurance carrier and pre-authorization. The nurses and anesthesiologist were all exceptional as well. I appreciated their direct communications with me the entire time. Dr Shaffer is very engaging and thorough and I appreciate his levity. I also want to complement the entire cast on their teamwork! It appears that they have fun together ??"
"Great experience with Dr. Schaffer and his staff. Everything was well organized, and the staff kept me informed after my procedure. My follow up appointment was scheduled with a smile. I find it difficult lately to find an office that will answer the phone, so this was a breath of fresh air. Thank you for all you do. It is very much apricated."
"Called reference a referral for a colonoscopy. I was answered by a pleasant person who provided me with a date and time to my liking. I couldn't have been more pleased."
"My experience could not have been better. From start to finish, the experience was comfortable and easy. Staff was friendly and professional. Dr. Shaffer was personable and kind, and an expert in this process. Would recommend this doctor and this practice every time, 100%."
"Dr Shaffer and the whole crew at Gastroenterology Consultants of SA are terrific. They make getting a colonoscopy easy and low stress. Dr Shaffer is pleasant, looks you in the eyes when he talks with you, and explains everything well. Even when he gives you bad news (found my husband’s cancer) he speaks with compassion, and makes sure your questions are answered. GCSA is the best group in town."
"Dr. Shaffer MD and his entire team were absolutely amazing! If I had to do it all over again it would definitely be with him and his team. I would give him three thumbs up if I had a third thumb . The whole process from setting up the appointment to the procedure day, and post procedure was so seamlessly easy."
"Excellent work! Everything went perfectly. As soon as I was all hooked up for the procedure, Dr. Shaffer came in, introduced himself, and clearly explained how the procedure would be conducted. The next thing I knew, I was waking up and told to get dressed. All within an hour. Perfect."
"Great doctor. I was very nervous about my 1st colonoscopy Dr Schaffer made me very comfortable. Very professional place and Dr. A+. See ya again in 10 years"
"Dr. Shaffer and is team were great! Had an Endoscopy and a Colonoscopy and didn't even know they happened. Great care, it was an outstanding experience, start to finish!"
"During my recent visit with Dr Shaffer , I found him to be interested in my issues and listened without interrupting me. He then began to ask questions and made suggestions as to our next steps. He has a tremendous sense of humor and made me feel very at ease. He’s very knowledgeable in his field of practice and I have confidence in his ability to treat my issues."
"The entire team were very friendly and communicated very well with me during my visit. Dr. Shaffer and team work very well together and made it a great experience. I highly recommend them and will continue to use them for any future needs. Thank you!"
"Dr. Shaffer and his staff were absolutely top notch. We arrived on time and didn't have to wait long to begin the process. Things were well organized and we moved from the front desk paperwork to the medical history questions to the prep room in short order. The procedure went well and Dr. Shaffer spent some time going over the results. An altogether satisfactory experience. Highly recommend."
"Dr. Shaffer was highly recommended and I understand why. Very personal to socialize with and makes you feel at ease ~ especially going into this procedure for the first time."
"Probably one of the most efficient and organized processes I've ever experienced in any health care setting. Dr. Shaffer and his team made the whole experience easy! Dr. Shaffer took the time to speak to me after my procedure and share my results with me. Would highly recommend Dr. Shaffer!"
"Dr. Shaffer has been my doctor for over six years and he has proven to be the best gastroenterologist around! Just by having a conversation with him about some unrelated medical expenses, he was also able to diagnose an autoimmune disorder and referred me to a rheumatologist. He and his staff are always prompt and courteous."
"Staff was awesome. Walked in early. Check in, took me to the area of procedure and the Doc Shaffer was just as professional as ever. I would recommend him, his staff to anyone. Thank you Dr Shaffer and staff."
"Dr. Shaffer is thourough with follow up and follow through to ensure his patient’s needs are addressed. He is also very well spoken and easy to speak with."
"I had another excellent experience with Dr. Shaffer and Gastroenterology Consultants. The entire process at their facility went very smoothly and I was kept well informed about what would be happening. Now, if the pharmaceutical industry could just develop a clean-out substance that's a little less wretched..."
"Dr. Shaffer thoroughly discussed my concerns and derived a good approach to analyze to then develop a course of action if necessary. I felt he spent sufficient time and am confident in his recommendations."
"As an RN of 50 years' experience in military and civilian settings, Dr. Shaffer is the best GI Physician I have ever had the pleasure of having in both military and civilian settings!! Folks, he has the most distinguished background in Gastroenterology I have ever witnessed! He is professional, compassionate, thorough, and a great physician, and lecturer. He also gives you the background of what you need to know from the results of an GI test or procedure you had. He'll provide you with pictures, hints to make informed decisions, and follow up with you to enhance your GI health. Food, stress, and the GI tract are so important these days, one can never have enough information, but Dr. Shaffer will help us guide ourselves in maintaining a healthy and safe gut! Thanks Dr. Shaffer! Jerry Gonzales, LTC (Ret Army), RN, BSN, MS; San Antonio"
"Excellent in all regards. Service was timely, effective and I was kept informed of what was going on every step of the way. Dr. Shaffer is top. notch. I love his sense of humor also."
"Scheduling is easy. Appointment times kept close. Procedure times as scheduled. Dr.Schafer is very professional, friendly and experienced. This was my second procedure in ten years. I will return when appropriate. He is great"
"Dr. Shaffer and his entire team are absolutely amazing! The entire process from scheduling, prep instructions, day of, and post discharge follow up were top notch!! They take the extra time to make sure you are comfortable and warm! Thank you for the warm blankets! The plus is Dr. Shaffer has a great bedside manner and sense of humor."
"I had not seen Dr. Shaffer in 10 years and he was just as kind, considerate and attentive as he was back then. Listened to my symptoms and a pleasure to work together with on my diagnosis. Very real!"
"My wife and I both had colonoscopies, not at the same time by the way. We were very satisfied with Dr Shaffer and everyone in the office who was involved. Doctor Shaffer is very knowledgable and easy to talk too. Thank you all for the best services and treatment."
"Dr. Shaffer is very personable and clear about what was found and what it means. They are very efficient in this office and get you through the procedure in a caring way."
"My third colonoscopy and endoscopy with Dr. Shaffer. He is awesome. Carefully walks through the pictures and diagnosis with his patients. Great bedside manner. I know I am in good hands with Dr. Shaffer."
"Overall my experience with Dr. Richard Shafer is indicative of why I have had three colonoscopies with his organization in the past 10 years. I have nothing but kudos for the way his office prepares for upcoming procedures and for their follow up after post operative recovery. He has been successful as needed in finding and removing suspicious polyps in one of the three procedures when a routine colonoscopy has been performed. I would recommend Dr. Schafer. I will however identify a slight problem when the surgery center operations where those procedures are performed. On his scheduled days for surgery multiple patients are scheduled but are not taken back to the pre op area and placed in a queue that corresponds to the scheduled time of surgery nor the time of arrival of the patient. Obviously I had to wait on the surgery center staff to decide which patient was to be taken back to the procedure room. Patient scheduled after me and who arrived after me we escorted into the back before I was. Please keep this in mind when waiting to be managed by the surgery center staff."
"There aren't enough words to express my gratitude to Dr Shaffer. He truly cares about his patients and goes above and beyond what is expected. He and his staff worked tirelessly and courageously to obtain insurance approvals to order the tests and procedures that, indeed, as his years of experience told him, showed I have Stage 4 Colon Cancer. When I am cancer free, I will always know the first step began with him. God bless Dr Shaffer and his staff!"
"I will be having an endoscopy soon by Dr. Shaffer and I wanted to share how well he explained everything to me and how he listened to my concerns. He cared for my Mother probably six years ago and he still has a comforting bedside manner. I highly recommend his professionalism and competence along with being compassionate."
"This outfit runs like a Swiss watch but without feeling impersonal. Whether talking about the administrative personnel or medical staff, everything went extremely quickly and smoothly. Everyone was very caring, knowledgeable, and efficient. I see no reason at all to consider going anywhere else."
"Dr. Schaefer and the staff at Gastroenterology Consultants provided compassionate and efficient care during my recent procedure. The doctor and anesthesiologist both took time before and afterwards to be sure I was doing well and were patient in explaining ever step of the process. I would give both them and Gastroenterology Consultants my highest recommendation and use them again, should I need such services in the future."
"Friendly, professional staff. Very little wait time in the lobby. Everything was explained about the procedure. I had no after effects or complications. This is the third or fourth time i have been to Dr Shaffer for a colonoscopy over a number of years."
"I was referred to Dr. Richard Shaffer by my wonderful family doctor, Dr. Lari Baros. Before that, I knew Dr. Shaffer because a family member previously had a colonoscopy with him. I had my colonoscopy a week ago, and I had a wonderful experience. He is the best gastroenterology specialist in perhaps the entire country. Beyond his profession he is friendly and kind. All of the people working in his office are beyond words. They are very professional in what they do, and they are very friendly. God bless them all. I would recommend for family, friends, and everyone with no reservations."
"I met Dr. Schaffer ONE time, and I immediately knew he was the right doctor for me. He’s very knowledgeable, so kind and helpful. I was relieved to hear about his knowledge and insight on a genetic cancer I have within my family that is very rare. Past doctors of mine had never heard of it and therefore didn’t treat me for the risks. But Dr. Schaffer knew all about it, guided me with all of my next steps and referrals to others I need to consult with as well. His personality makes you feel comfortable like you’ve known him forever. I’m really happy I found him in my search for GI doctor!"
"I was very impressed by Dr. Shaffer and his high quality staff. His staff was very helpful in making things easy to follow for a complex procedure and kept me abreast of getting all the details right and on-time. Dr. Shaffer helped me through a scary but vital procedure efficiently and smoothly in his highly capable hands. I was particularly impressed with his bedside manner and detailed out brief and friendly response to my questions before and after the procedure. My wife and my medical needs will be fully and only in his hands here out--first class in every way!"
"Staff is highly professional and pays particular attention to the patients to make sure theyt are comfortable. The OR personnel fully explained the procedure step by step. Could not have been happier or more pleased with my visit and my procedure. Highly recommend this clinic."
"Having a colonoscopy is never a pleasant experience to look forward to. That said to a person, each of Dr. Shaffer's staff was very courteous, caring, and listened quite closely throughout our various conversations and preparations. Dr. Shaffer was his usual outgoing self, super friendly, and deeply caring that I understood the process and later the results. It's hard to ask for more when having one of these procedures done. They are a very professional team. Rick McManus"
"All went well and the report was positive and Dr. and others that were envolved with the procedure were plesent and assuring. Thanks to all and have a Blessed day>"
"Great MD and awesome staff. Doctor explained the procedure and was able to finish everything within the time. Felt very secured in the waiting room, and all the way to the end."
"No one enjoys a colonoscopy, but for what it is, Dr. Shaffer and his staff make it a good experience. They are professional, kind and helpful. Their office is easy to contact (no waiting on hold for hours!) I recommend Dr. Shaffer and his office team! (Google is giving me an option to add pictures, but I don’t think you want them! But, I do have some color photos of the inside of my colon! 😁)"
"Top notice service. From start to finish very easy to get seen, scheduled and have the procedure performed. Dr Shaffer has extensive experience in the performance of colonoscopy. Very professional support staff and the anesthetic group was efficient and made recovery very easy. When your Dr suggests this procedure this is the group to call."
"Dr. Shaffer is exceptionally competent and delightfully pleasant and the staff at the procedure center is excellent. My endoscopy was accomplished with ease."
"Outstanding experience with Gastroenterology Consultants of San Antonio. Every individual in the process to include the receptionist, nurses, anesthesiologist, and most of all Dr. Shaffer were very professional. They put you at ease, explained the process in detail and answered every question thoroughly. Great team. Would recommend to friends and family."
"Staff was great, positive, helpful, answered all my questions. They all truly worked like a very efficient team. Dr. Shaffer was lighthearted. efficient, explained everything because I chose to not get anesthesia so I could watch the screen. There was one breakdown as I was being prepped to go in. The contracted anesthesia team installed a port for anesthesia in case I might need it for pain, but Dr Shaffer doesn’t allow stopping, if it’s too painful, he will stop the procedure and patient would come back another day for the treatment. So that was a little communication breakdown, for which I’ll be charged for the port that, in his world, couldn’t be used. I got thru procedure w help from 2 helper w Doc and his humor. A little uncomfortable but it satisfied my desire to see inside and understand my body better!"
"He reviewed my past visits and diagnosis and listened to my symptoms. He advised what I should be doing daily and to come back in Sept as a follow up"
"First colonoscopy. Dreaded it! However, it was the best experience for such a procedure. Dr. Shaffer & staff were professional & efficient. I highly recommend!"
"Dr Shaffer is so professional and experienced. I trust he cares for my well being. He has a fabulous sense of humor and a caring attitude that put me at ease for a very necessary but rather personal procedure. His positive personality and caring staff were highly appreciated! I recommend him without reservation!"
"Dr. Shaffer and his team were wonderful! It was my first time with this procedure so I was extremely nervous to say the least…their professionalism coupled with calming bedside manner made the experience as pleasant as possible. Thank you!!"
"My wife and I have both had a procedure done here within the last year. We agree, we couldn't have been happier with the entire process. Thank you job well done. I felt like it was a wonderful experience...you and your staff have the system wired tight! everyone was extremely professional! Highly recommend this Dr and staff."
"Dr. Shaffer is an outstanding physician. He is highly professional and super personable. He did an amazing job for my procedure. I highly recommend him."
"Dr. Shaffer and his entire medical staff at the Gastroenterology Consultants of San Antonio made an uncomfortable procedure/experience very pleasant. Thank you for taking very good care of me. A great patient experience indeed!"
"Let's face it: colonoscopies are an indelicate subject but oh so necessary in today's world for good health maintenance. It's good, then, to have a doctor who both humbles AND commits himself to the task, and that would be Dr. Richard Shaffer. His bedside manner is friendly yet reassuring. Most of all, he has a good sense of humor about his work, which he shares fully and freely in the post-procedure recap of things. He offers his explanations and findings of the procedure in easily explainable terms. Said differently, he is sensitive in not making you feel like a dumb-a$$ about it all... and he would chuckle at that double entendre! I highly recommend Dr. Richard Shaffer for your next colonoscopy."
"Dr. Shaffer was very professional and I felt very comfortable talking with him. He was thorough. This was the first time seeing him and I believe I now have a new neurologist!"
"Always a very positive experience with Dr. Shaffer. He reviewed tests, recommended changes, and spent the time needed to ensure my concerns were addressed. As always - thanks Dr Shaffer!"
"Dr. Shaffer is always personable and friendly. He always answers my questions and provides good insight into my healthcare issues. He is great and I would recommend him to anyone."
"As a 15+ year Patient of Dr Shaffers, I have been nothing but please with my care from Dr S and his team. When you're "lucky enough" to have GERD, IBS and a touch of Gluten Sensitivity, you tend to rely on your Gastro for actionable advice. Very importantly, I never feel rushed, always feel like he takes the time necessary to help me understand what may be wrong and how to fix it. Truly one of my favorite Doctors."
"Excellent Doctor, Nurses, Anesthesiologists, and Staff! They work very well together and run a smooth operation. There was almost no waiting period as they move you through the entire process rather easily and quickly. It was less than 90 minutes from the time I checked in to when I was walking out the door."
"Had to have my routine endoscopy. As usual my wait time was short the nurses were super friendly and Dr. Schaffer made me feel very comfortable. Lucky to live here and utilize your services."
"Very professional in his work, he listened to what I was concerned with and helped me figure out what was going on. Made the procedure a very relaxed environment, all in all great doctor and great nurses that were helping him."
"Dr. Shaffer is excellent. Not only is he a good doctor but he's also personable and has a great sense of humor. He's done four colonoscopies for me over the last 15 years, and I highly recommend him."
"Wonderful staff!!! They were fast, efficient, provided thoughtful care, and Dr. Shaffer has a great sense of humor. Never thought I would give 5 stars on a colonoscopy, but these are strange times!"
"This organization is nothing short of FIRST CLASS! Can you believe there's a medical team that treats people with the utmost respect and still believes in Good Old Customer service and treating people like people instead of just another number! If you ever visit this location you will see and experience it first hand! Great Service from the staff and members of Dr. Richard Shaffer"
"If a colonoscopy could ever be rated a 5 star experience, it would be with Dr. Richard Shaffer! He and his staff put me at ease before the procedure, and afterwards were attentive and took time to explain the results. Definitely would recommend Dr. Shaffer"
"My experience with Dr. Shaffer has been outstanding. He goes right t the solution to my symptoms. He treats you with respect and courteous. I don’t want another gastroenterologist other than him."
"While getting a colonoscopy is not on most people's wish list it is a very important procedure to have. Dr. Shaffer's staff put me at ease and were very pleasant to be around. Dr. Shaffer himself was very professional and friendly. I highly recommend him."
"The whole staff is very nice, accommodating and knowledgeable thru the whole process. Dr Shaffer was awesome and a bit of a jokester and that was a great ice breaker. Overall it was a perfect procedure from start to finish. Would definitely recommend this clinic to anyone who may have to go thru this procedure. Respectfully, Russell Townley"
"Exceptional treatment and service. Pre-procedure information was clear and simple Procedures were on time and staff was wonderful. Results were timely and clear."
"When you don't remember anything... its a good thing. The medical team was amazing. The procedure was explained. I wasn't confused or nervous because there was someone always there to ensure I was comfortable. Glad I don't need to go back for a while but Im glad I do have a place to go where I feel safe and taken care of."
"Dr Shafer is the best doc ever ...compassionate, makes everyone feel comfortable and informed. His easygoing manner sets you at ease during a time when you ordinarily wouldn't be. I have found my doctor for all issues GI."
"My complete experience from the phone calls and texts for my appointment and confirmation, to my check in, to my preparation from the nursing staff in the back, as well as the awesomeness and personal concern that I felt from Dr. Shaffer. i have been telling all of my coworkers about this clinic and my Doctor… thank you all for your caring, God’s will, I will see you guys again in 10 years.. 🙏🏾BE BLESSED🙏🏾 ."
"Dr. Shaffer takes his time during each appointment I have had with him. He answers all of my questions and his staff is also very helpful and attentive. Staff also responds quickly to patient portal questions. I would recommend him to anyone looking for a doctor in the area."
"Although the 24 hours prior to the procedure is no fun whatsoever, Dr Shaffer and the staff were exceptional! The facilities are top notch and the folks there are professional. I think I will visit them again in 5 years."
"Dr. Shaffer and his complete staff at the clinic are top notch and all deserve five stars. From the first call to schedule my procedure to the follow-up afterwards, everyone was so pleasant. I highly recommend Dr. Shaffer."
"Love my experience with Dr Shaffer and his staff. He and his staff are friendly, professional and most importantly, very caring. He and his staff look at me when I speak, which tell's me they are listening and ready to answer my concerns. 5 stars for Dr Shaffer and his wonderful staff🤗"
"I had a very positive experience at the Gastroenterology Consultants. Dr. Shaffer was very attentive and answered all my questions. The procedure was quick, and painless and I appreciate all the staff that assisted! Everyone was super!"
"I recently had both a colonoscopy and an EGD by Dr. Shaffer. Both procedures went completely smoothly and without any issues. The clinic runs like a finely crafted Swiss timepiece! The staff is awesome and I would say that my procedures even bordered on "pleasant"! :)"
"I have been Dr. Shaffer's patient for many years and I think he is the best. He looks me in the eye and listens to my concerns. He has taken very good care of me through the years."
"My experience with Dr. Shaffer and Gastroenterology Consultants of San Antonio was very positive. They have good follow up and communication and the procedure was quick & easy."
"Endoscopy: All went as scheduled with no problems. Anesthesiologist was great, and in my opinion there's no better grastroenterologist than Dr. Shaffer."
"Doc Shaffer is a throw back to what good doctors used to be. Personable, engaging and friendly. I wish my other doctors were like him, the stick in the mud self absorbed people that unfortunately frequent that profession. Highly, highly recommend!"
"Dr Shaffer MD got me in when others could not. He hit the nail on the head with the problem and quickly went to work to solve it. He is easy to talk with and cares about you and your problem. I have advised others of my family to use him."
"Dr. Shaffer is amazing! He took the time to explain everything from my symptoms to medications without making me feel rushed. He cares about his patients and his staff was so kind too! definitly would reccomend him to others need a GI doctor."
"Dr. Shafer made me comfortable at our consult. The colonoscopy I don't remember at all. the staff were all real nice and very professional. I would definitely recommend Dr. Shaffer."
"Outstanding service from start to stop. Dr Shaffer and the staff provided world class care with no distractions. Your team has set the standards for medical care. Thanks for taking care of America's finest. One team"
"The staff were a pleasure to deal with from initial call to schedule my colonoscopy to completion of the procedure. The follow up leading up to and following the day of the procedure was exceptional. Dr. Shaffer was very pleasant to talk to and was straightforward with what to expect before and after the procedure. His follow up with additional/final results was also exceptional. The Stone Oak facility staff were also exceptional upon arrival for admitting and keeping my wife informed of my status. The patient portal is a great tool where you can find everything you need with ease (appointments, results, etc.)."
"Dr Shaffer is wonderful. He is caring makes the patient feel like if one has been a friend of his. Dr Shaffer has a very pleasant personality and wants nothing but the best for his patients."
"I recently had a colonoscopy performed by D. Shaffer of Gastroenterology Consultants of San Antonio. I was very impressed with the efficiency, organization, professionalism and care of the entire staff. Dr. Shaffer is an excellent and caring clinician. I did have a bit of difficulty making telephone contact with the office but everything else was excellent and I was very pleased with the service. Forrest Oliverson MD"
"My procedure went well as planned. Dr. Shaffer and his staff were kind, attentive and professional. I appreciated Dr. Shaffer's sense of humor as it put me at ease. I was very please with the care I received. Best regards,"
"Had a procedure done by Dr. Richard T. Shaffer this week and wanted to let others know of his compassion for his patient as well as the entire staff. They both were awesome, as the communication and follow up from his staff far exceeds my expectations. I highly recommend him to others!"
"The staff were professional and courteous making an uncomfortable procedure bearable. The only drawback was the process the day before getting ready for the procedure. Dr. Shaffer was upbeat and informative when reviewing the results with us."
"Before moving back to Texas, I suffered a life threatening colon problem which required two surgeries. Dr. Shaffer came highly recommended for my follow up. He examined me and answered all my questions. He offered refills of my medicine and encouraged me to contact him if I had any further questions or problems. I’ll certainly return to him for any future care."
"Dr. Shaffer and staff are wonderful people that work in a very professional yet friendly environment. I highly recommend them for your medical needs."
"Highly professional and affable staff at the ASC. I sincerely appreciate Dr. Shaffer's prompt and highly exceptional service. Very pleased with my overall experience."
"Dr. Shaffer had been my doctor for many years. Dr. Shaffer and the staff are wonderful. They friendly, very professional and make you feel very comfortable. Highly recommend Dr. Shaffer and his staff."