Dr. Louis Bell, MD

GastroenterologyMaleAge 70

Gastroenterology

Dr. Louis Bell, MD is a gastroenterology specialist in Bluffton, SC and has over 44 years of experience in the medical field. Dr. Bell has extensive experience in Pancreatic Disease and Esophageal Disorders. He graduated from Temple Univ Sch Of Med, Philadelphia Pa|Temple University in 1978. He is affiliated with medical facilities Beaufort Memorial Hospital and Hilton Head Regional Medical Center. His office accepts new patients.

Dr. Louis Bell, MD

Coastal Gastroenterology

29 Plantation Park Dr Ste 203 Bluffton, SC 29910
Accepting new patients

Make an Appointment

(843) 342-2299

Accepting new patients

Hospital Highlight

Dr. Bell is affiliated with Beaufort Memorial Hospital Beaufort, a highly rated hospital.

At a Glance

  • Explains Conditions Well
    Patients said this doctor explains conditions well. See reviews
  • Practices at Top Hospital
    Patient Safety Excellence Award™ See hospitals
  • Trustworthy
    Patients said this doctor is trustworthy. See reviews
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Experience and Background Checks

Experience
Background

Background Check

Healthgrades does not collect malpractice claims information for South Carolina
No disciplinary actions found for the years we collect data
No board actions found for the years we collect data
Learn more about background checks

Frequently Treated by Dr. Bell

Based on treatment records, we have identified the following as areas of care that Dr. Bell treats more often than their peers. If you are unsure whether Dr. Bell treats other conditions, please contact the office at (843) 342-2299.

Pancreatic Disease

Pancreatic disease specialists diagnose and treat conditions affecting the pancreas, such as pancraetitis.Compare with other Pancreatic Disease specialists.

Dr. Bell is experienced in the area of Pancreatic Disease. See the graph below to learn more about his experience.

Based on claims data for 1 conditions and procedures

Treatments
Dr. Bell
Similar Providers
Pancreatitis
Normal
Frequency
High
Frequency
Very High
Frequency

Esophageal Disorders

Esophageal disorder specialists diagnose and treat conditions affecting the esophagus, such as reflux esophagitis, indigestion, and esophageal ulcers through procedures including medication, surgery, and swallowing therapy.Compare with other Esophageal Disorders specialists.

Dr. Bell is experienced in the area of Esophageal Disorders. See the graph below to learn more about his experience.

Based on claims data for 19 conditions and procedures

Treatments
Dr. Bell
Similar Providers
Nausea
Dysphagia
Esophageal Motility Disorders
Hiatal Hernia
Normal
Frequency
High
Frequency
Very High
Frequency

Check Dr. Bell's experience treating your condition or procedure

Dr. Bell's conditions and procedures:

  • Diarrhea
  • Abdominal Pain
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
  • Abdominal Disorders
  • Anal Abscess
  • Anal and Rectal Cancer
  • Anal or Rectal Pain
  • Anal Prolapse
  • Anemia
  • Anorectal Abscess
  • Anorectal Abscess and Fistula
  • Autoimmune Diseases
  • Barrett's Esophagus
  • Benign Neoplasm of the Digestive System
  • Benign Tumor
  • Bile Duct Disorders
  • Biliary Atresia
  • Blood Disorders
  • Cancer
  • Cancer Treatment Complications
  • Celiac Disease
  • Cholecystitis
  • Cholecystitis and Gallstones
  • Chronic Anemia
  • Cirrhosis
  • Clotting and Bleeding Disorders
  • Colitis
  • Colon Cancer
  • Colon Disorders
  • Colon Polyp
  • Colonic Volvulus
  • Colorectal Cancer
  • Congenital Achalasia
  • Constipation
  • Crohn's Disease
  • Dehydration
  • Diaphragmatic and Hiatal Hernia
  • Diffuse Esophageal Spasm
  • Distal Colorectal Cancer
  • Diverticulitis
  • Diverticulosis
  • Duodenal Ulcer
  • Duodenitis
  • Dysentery
  • Dysphagia
  • Enteritis
  • Eosinophilic Esophagitis
  • Esophageal Achalasia and Cardiospasm
  • Esophageal Cancer
  • Esophageal Dilation
  • Esophageal Diseases
  • Esophageal Diverticulum
  • Esophageal Motility Disorders
  • Esophageal Ulcer
  • Esophageal Varices
  • Esophagitis
  • Familial Adenomatous Polyposis
  • Food Allergy
  • Functional Dyspepsia
  • Gallbladder Diseases
  • Gallstones
  • Gas-Bloat Syndrome
  • Gastric Ulcer
  • Gastritis
  • Gastroenteritis
  • Gastrointestinal Bleeding
  • Gastrointestinal Diseases
  • Gastrointestinal Malabsorption
  • Gastroparesis
  • Heartburn
  • Hemochromatosis
  • Hemorrhoids
  • Hepatitis
  • Hepatitis B - Immune Response
  • Hepatitis C
  • Hernia
  • Hiatal Hernia
  • Ileus
  • Impacted Shoulders
  • Incontinence
  • Indigestion
  • Inflammatory Bowel Disease
  • Intestinal Diseases
  • Intestinal Obstruction
  • Intussusception
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome
  • Ischemic Colitis
  • Lactose Intolerance
  • Liver Damage from Alcohol
  • Liver Diseases and Disorders
  • Mallory-Weiss Syndrome
  • Malnutrition
  • Megacolon
  • Nausea
  • Neoplasm of Gastrointestinal Tract
  • Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
  • Non-Neonatal Jaundice
  • Noninfectious Gastroenteritis and Colitis
  • Obstructive Jaundice
  • Pancreatitis
  • Peptic Ulcer
  • Pruritus Ani
  • Pyloric Stenosis
  • Rectal Cancer
  • Rectal Prolapse
  • Reflux Esophagitis
  • Stomach and Small Intestine Cancer
  • Stomach Cancer
  • Stomach Diseases
  • Stomal Ulcer
  • Substance Abuse
  • Ulcer
  • Ulcerative Colitis
  • Unexplained Weight Loss
  • Vascular Insufficiency of Intestines
  • Viral Enteritis
  • Viral Hepatitis
  • Vomiting Disorders
  • Zenker's Diverticulum
  • Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome
  • Gastroenterology Procedures
  • Hemorrhoid Banding
  • Intraoral Camera
  • Wireless pH Testing

Insurance Check

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Dr. Bell's Reviews

Likelihood to recommend Dr. Bell

3.9

Based on 112 ratings

5 Star
70%
70%
4 Star
3%
3%
3 Star
0%
0%
2 Star
6%
6%
1 Star
21%
21%
What went well
No reviews yet
What could be improved
No reviews yet

Your trust is our top concern.

We strive to keep the reviews trustworthy, honest & fair.

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RecentHighestLowestMost Helpful
Reply
Hemorrhoid banding procedure
I had 2 visits with Dr. Bell for hemorrhoid banding (to remove hemorrhoids) and it was very easy and relatively unpainful. The actual procedure to put on the bands only takes 5 minutes, and afterwards it aches for about an hour or two but after that there are no problems. Dr Bell is very relaxed and pleasant.
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Explained conditions well
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
  • Long wait times
Helpful
Lynne Allen – Mar 20, 2023
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Reply
Best
Unfortunately for me I have required colonoscopies every 2-5 years since age 45. Fortunately for me I found Dr. Bell when I moved to Beaufort in 2013. Time and time again he has impressed me with his talent and professionalism as a gastroenterologist.
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Dr Gary – Feb 22, 2023
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Reply
Excellent caring doctor , called to check on mep
Friendly efficient staff
What went well
No results
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Robert Fumarelli – Oct 19, 2022
Thank you for your response. I will forward this...Read More
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Reply
Best Doctor!
I’m new to this area and was concerned about finding new healthcare post Covid after relocating from another state. It’s not easy to start over! Happy to say that I’ve found the most amazing doctors here in Bluffton, SC — Dr. Bell is THE VERY BEST! He’s so kind, caring and incredibly knowledgeable! Recently, I had a very concerning situation and he was there for me that very day. The Okatie outpatient surgery center is also just incredible! I can’t say enough about Dr, Bell and the entire team. Just the best ever.
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Dr. Bell is the Best! – Oct 17, 2022
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Reply
Upper GI Check
I Just had a endoscopy to check my throat. Excellent Doctor and a great staff that helped me through the procedure. I felt very comfortable with everyone. People were friendly and also very professional. I have good veins and felt no discomfort when they inserted the IV.
What went well
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
1 person found this helpful
Helpful
Fredrick Malicki – May 17, 2022
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Reply
I recently moved to South Carolina and needed a colonoscopy, so my primary doctor referred me to Dr. Bell. He was the best. He made me feel very comfortable about my procedure even though I was in a new state, a new surgery center and a new doctor. I would definitely recommend Dr. Bell to anyone having any procedure he does at Coastal Gastroenterology
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Deborah B – Mar 31, 2022
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Reply
Fixed my issue when another doctor misdiagnosed it and was making me worse. He asked a lot of questions and paid attention to my answers. Calls you back and often answers his phone personally. Won’t go to anyone else unless he retires or moves VERY far away!
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Ellen Walton – Jul 13, 2021
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Reply
Went to Dr. Bell for both unexplained weight loss and an acidity problem. He was very thorough in assessing my issues. He gave n me a thorough exam during my office visit and asked for and reviewed my recent Bloodwork and asked for my previous Colonoscopy report. As a result, he scheduled both a Colonoscopy and Endoscopy. The Surgey Center was very professional and accommodating. I felt very taken care of and got my results right away from Dr. Bell personally.
What went well
No results
What could be improved
No results
1 person found this helpful
Helpful
James Croddick – Jul 02, 2021
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Reply
Follow up colonoscopy. Dr Bell is the best. Good bedside manor, explains clearly and is on time. Great staff at Oakatie Bluffton Surgical Center too.
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
May 27, 2021
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Reply
My wife and I recently had our 5-year colonoscopy updates with Dr. Bell and his Team. The entire experience, from initial coordination, then preparation, followed by the procedure and discharge was the best we have ever experienced. Excellent process, excellent facility and excellent Team, all led by Dr. Bell! We highly recommend Coastal Gastroenterology.
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
John Charland – Apr 21, 2021
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Reply
Dr. Bell is, without any doubt, a 5-Star physician serving the Lowcountry! His concern and care for his patients is remarkable and terribly impressive. Dr. Bell takes the time to make personal calls to patients when he knows they are in distress or experiencing other medical conditions. No Doctor I know does this outreach in the evenings when he is home. He is professional and extremely knowledgeable! Yes, 5 big Stars!
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Susan Spence Allard – Mar 26, 2021
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Reply
Dr Bell is a total package. Professional and skilled, kind and assuring with a dash of personality. I have seen several doctor in Bluffton and Savannah I am usually seen by someone sitting at a computer or reading blood panels. Dr Bell actual provided direct care and assessment. He asked questions and listened. Novel. I wasn't kept waiting in an exam room for long periods of time. I lamented to my husband that I wish I could have Dr Bell as my attending vs Specialist. I have stopped fretting about my concerns because I think Dr Bell will help me sort things out. I highly recommend you ask to be referred to Dr Bell for gastrointestinal issues.
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Janice Carter – Feb 19, 2021
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Reply
Most caring Dr. always calls back.Very caring. Would recommend Dr. Bell to anyone looking far a great Dr. . Explaining everything to you.
What went well
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
1 person found this helpful
Helpful
Judy Band – Oct 15, 2020
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Reply
Dr Bell’s office and staff were very professional and reassuring. Colonoscopy prep was better than my other experiences. HHI Sergi Center was excellent. Dr Bell was very professional and explained results clearly. Dr Bell is Highly recommended.
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Carolyn Maher – Sep 21, 2020
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Reply
Dr. Bell and his staff provided an excellent level of care. I felt comfortable during every interaction and he kept me informed along the way. His straightforward communication and easy going nature made my entire experience a positive one.
What went well
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
What could be improved
No results
1 person found this helpful
Helpful
Henry – Aug 12, 2020
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Reply
Best doctor around. I wish I could have him as my everything dr. He truly cares about each patient and you can tell. Also loooove Monique. She’s the best
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Angela Williams – Jul 28, 2020
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Reply
Dr Bell was very professional and compassionate. He was “ 5 star” start to finish. I would recommend him to any of my friends.
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Bill Phillips – May 09, 2020
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Reply
So thankful that Dr. Bell was the physician on call when I took my father into the ER in an emergency situation. He literally saved my fathers life with his expertise and was able to do an emergency endoscopy immediately - and diagnosed his condition quickly. He communicated well in layman's terms in a personable way that made sense and we will always be appreciative for his kindness and thoroughness.
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
2 people found this helpful
Helpful
Laura Higgins – Feb 13, 2020
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Reply
Dr. Bell is a wonderful physician who took such great care of me and made me feel right at ease. I appreciate his compassion and willingness to help and would certainly recommend him with raving reviews.
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
2 people found this helpful
Helpful
Jan 03, 2020
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Reply
An issue with a newly placed feeding tube brought us to the ER unexpectedly, we were fortunate that Dr. Bell was available and willing to fit us into his schedule with no advance notice. He and his team did an evaluation, determined what was required, consulted with the surgeon at MUSC and then replaced the feeding tube - the new tube is functioning efficiently and easily. I have great confidence in Dr. Bell's analytical and practical skills. I would recommend him with no reservations.
What went well
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
2 people found this helpful
Helpful
Dec 13, 2019
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About Me

Care Philosophy

Louis Bell, MD believes that every patient should always be embraced with personal kindness, respect, attention and understanding. Dr. Louis Bell strives...Read more

Specialties

  • Gastroenterology
  • Hepatology

Board Certifications

  • Gastroenterology
  • Internal Medicine

Education

1983
Lankenau Medical Center
Fellowship Hospital
1981
Albert Einstein Medical Center|Lankenau Hosp, Gastroenterology Albert Einstein Med Ctr, Internal Medicine Scranton-Temple Res Prog, Internal Medicine
Residency Hospital
1979
Mercy Hospital
Internship Hospital
1978
Temple Univ Sch Of Med, Philadelphia Pa|Temple University
Medical School

Languages

  • English
  • Spanish

Awards

  • Healthgrades Honor Roll
  • community service award healthcare, 2005

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to schedule an appointment with Dr. Louis Bell, MD?

View contact information to make an appointment.

Does Dr. Louis Bell, MD accept any insurance plans?

A list of accepted insurance providers is available on the Healthgrades insurance check. It is always a good idea to verify your insurance when making an appointment.

Does Dr. Louis Bell, MD accept new patients?

New patients are generally accepted by Dr. Louis Bell, MD on Healthgrades. To arrange an appointment, call the number on undefined's profile.

What are Dr. Louis Bell, MD's top areas of expertise?

Dr. Louis Bell, MD specializes in Esophageal Disorders and Pancreatic Disease. See more on Healthgrades.

What conditions does Dr. Louis Bell, MD treat?

Dr. Louis Bell, MD frequently treats the following conditions: Diarrhea, Abdominal Pain, and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). See more on Healthgrades.

What is Dr. Louis Bell, MD's office address?

Dr. Bell's office is located at 29 Plantation Park Dr Ste 203, Bluffton, SC 29910. You can find other locations and directions on Healthgrades.

What languages is Dr. Louis Bell, MD fluent in?

Dr. Louis Bell, MD is able to speak English and Spanish. View profile to see all.

Is Dr. Louis Bell, MD affiliated with any hospitals?

Dr. Louis Bell, MD is affiliated with Beaufort Memorial Hospital and Hilton Head Regional Medical Center.

How much experience does Dr. Louis Bell, MD have?

Dr. Louis Bell, MD has over 44 years of healthcare experience.

Does Dr. Louis Bell, MD receive good ratings from patients?

There is a star rating of 3.9/5 for Dr. Louis Bell, MD. Patients say that the appointment wasn't rushed and they trusted the provider's decisions. See all patient feedback on Healthgrades.

Focus on Ulcerative Colitis

Locations

Coastal Gastroenterology

Coastal Gastroenterology29 Plantation Park Dr Ste 203 Bluffton, SC 29910
1
  • Call
  • Fax
  • Hours
    • Mon: 9:00am - 5:00pm
    • Tue: 9:00am - 5:00pm
    • Thu: 9:00am - 5:00pm
  • Directions

Coastal Gastroenterology, PC

Coastal Gastroenterology23 N Main St Ste 101B Hilton Head, SC 29926
2

Affiliated Hospitals

Dr. Bell is affiliated with the following hospitals. Select a hospital below to learn more.

Learn more about how Healthgrades measuresHospital Quality.

Beaufort Memorial Hospital

Beaufort, SC

67% Patients that would definitely recommend, 3% lower than the national average

3 Awards Received

Award Highlight: Patient Safety Excellence Award™ (2023)

Hilton Head Regional Medical Center

Hilton Head Island, SC

59% Patients that would definitely recommend, 11% lower than the national average

10 Awards Received

Award Highlight: Patient Safety Excellence Award™ (2022)