New Faces, Expanded Access and Specialized Colorectal Care

There are healthcare conversations most of us would rather avoid. Colorectal health is probably near the top of that list. Yet these conversations can make an important difference in our health and, in some cases, our lives.

That is why I am especially pleased to welcome Dr. Sarah Kling and Dr. Jacob Neary to Physicians Regional Healthcare System. Both bring specialized training, advanced surgical expertise and, perhaps most importantly, a commitment to listening to and caring for patients.

Dr. Kling is board-certified in general surgery and completed a colorectal surgery fellowship at Albany Medical Center. Her practice includes conditions affecting the colon, rectum and anus, with minimally invasive approaches including laparoscopic, robotic-assisted, and transanal procedures, as well as colonoscopy.

She will be located at our Pine Ridge and Collier Boulevard facilities.

Dr. Neary is board-certified in general surgery and completed his colorectal surgery fellowship at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital. His practice includes benign and malignant colorectal diseases, inflammatory bowel disease, pelvic floor disorders, and cancer screening and surveillance. Both bring minimally invasive surgical experience to our community.

Patients can see Dr. Neary at our Pine Ridge and Bonita Springs facilities.

It is important to understand that colorectal care does not happen in isolation. Our digestive health team is collaborative, with our colorectal surgeons and gastroenterologists working closely together.

Gastroenterologists commonly diagnose and medically manage digestive conditions and perform screening and diagnostic colonoscopies. When a patient needs a more complex procedure, surgical treatment or specialized evaluation, a colorectal surgeon may become part of that care team.

The two specialties complement one another, with a shared goal of providing the right care at the right time. This focus on collaboration can help patients move smoothly from diagnosis to treatment and follow-up.

And there is another important part of colorectal care that deserves our attention: comfort.

No one looks forward to a colorectal examination. The subject is personal, the examination can feel uncomfortable, and many people understandably feel vulnerable. But avoiding the conversation does not make a potential health problem disappear.

Dr. Kling understands that vulnerability. “My patients are certainly very vulnerable,” she says, emphasizing the importance of explaining what is happening, setting expectations, and helping patients understand what to expect. Dr. Neary takes a similar approach, beginning with a conversation about symptoms and concerns.

That patient-first approach matters. Patients should be able to ask questions, speak honestly, and feel respected without embarrassment or judgment. Trust is part of effective care.

There are symptoms we should not ignore. Rectal bleeding is never considered normal and should be evaluated by a physician. Changes in bowel habits, changes in stool, unexplained abdominal or rectal pain, or unintentional weight loss can also warrant medical attention.

If something has changed from your normal baseline, talk with your primary care provider or appropriate digestive health specialist.

Routine colorectal cancer screening is another important conversation. Dr. Kling notes that colonoscopy can be both diagnostic and therapeutic, allowing physicians to identify and remove polyps and potentially prevent cancer from developing. Screening recommendations should always be discussed with your healthcare provider based on your individual risk factors and history.

Welcoming Dr. Kling and Dr. Neary is about more than just adding two names to our medical staff. It is about expanding access to specialized care and strengthening a team dedicated to serving Marco Island and East Naples.

Physicians Regional Healthcare System’s three Naples hospitals provide quality care to the Naples and greater Southwest Florida community with the objective of offering more options and improved access to healthcare for all citizens and visitors. Three Naples hospitals and more than 800 physicians are recognized within their fields, offering advanced medical care in more than 45 specialties and subspecialties, including programs in 24-hour emergency care, cardiology, vascular disease, digestive diseases, orthopedic care, spine care, neurosurgery, and women’s services.

We also offer primary care, urgent care, specialized medical services, and diagnostic options at our Marco Island location on San Marco Road.

Colorectal health may not be easy to discuss, but it is important. Please do not let discomfort or embarrassment keep you from getting the care you need. Our digestive health team is here to listen and help you take the next step.

For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Kling or Dr. Neary, visit physiciansregional.com or call 239-348-4128.