For longtime locals, ECGI is no stranger. After opening in 1988, ECGI has grown in a myriad ways; the independent, Gastroenterology provider has expanded in both technical expertise as well as geographically, working to reach more people in underserved areas.

“Independent medicine is alive and well,” Dr. Jon Potter said in a recent interview. “Patients deserve to have choices, and good ones at that.”

“We’ve all felt it; corporate healthcare has become more and more expensive,” he continued. “When we are able to offer independent medical care, it is often more efficient, more cost effective, and a better experience for both the patient and the provider.”

As a tight-knit, longtime area provider, ECGI has blended old-school personability with the ease and adaptability of modern care. This ethos is perhaps best personified by Sharyl McNamara, who has been part of the ECGI team for 19 years.

As a longtime local and ECGI schedule coordinator, Sharyl personally knows plenty of people across the tri-county area. Her warm, individual care has become a cornerstone of ECGI. “Sharyl is the soul of this practice,” Dr. Potter said. “She is a true advocate, always optimistic, and always taking care of people.

She’s just one example; our staff aren’t just committed, they are genuine, caring people. That’s what this community deserves.”

“With our team, you’re not overwhelmed by a sea of names. When you call us, you don’t get stuck with an automation service; I want you to know you’re being heard, and being heard by a human being,” Dr. Potter said.

Dr. Potter pointed to his own rural upbringing when discussing the importance of wide-reaching healthcare. ECGI has expanded several times over the years — including the opening of its brand-new Eau Claire office in 2024 — and has also brought its services to areas including Shell Lake and future expansion plans for Ladysmith, in addition to current outreach locations of Stanley and Durand.

“It’s always been our goal to reach as many people as possible,” Dr. Potter said. “We’ve also done a lot of inpatient work with the previous Sacred Heart and St. Joseph’s teams, and we’re excited to continue working with the Chippewa Valley Health Co-op at the new St. Joseph’s campus.”

As independent providers, the ECGI team is able to literally meet people where they’re at, whether through satellite locations or collaborations with other area providers through referrals.

In the realm of GI, ECGI operates as a full-service provider — and accepts a wide range of insurance, including Medicare and Medicaid.

When you’re in need of services ranging from inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis) and acid reflux to colorectal cancer screening and celiac disease, ECGI works hard to be readily available.

“The last thing folks want is to go see their family doctor and get referred to a GI who ends up referring them to someone else, and then someone else. Then a couple of months go by and they still haven’t made any headway,” Dr. Potter said. “With an independent, quality provider, we can do what we need to do for our people — no one else is calling the shots.”

Make your own call today and get in touch with the ECGI team at (715) 552-7303 or learn more at www.eauclairegi.com.