Finding a doctor who doesn't treat you like a number on a clipboard is getting harder these days. Honestly, the medical world feels like a revolving door sometimes. But if you’re looking into Dr. Caren J. Bennett MD, you’ve likely realized she’s one of those names that pops up constantly for anyone navigating the complex world of digestive health in South Florida.
She isn't a newcomer. Far from it. With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Bennett has seen basically everything the human gut can throw at a person. Based in Hollywood, Florida, she’s become a go-to for patients dealing with everything from routine screenings to those weird, persistent stomach issues that nobody else seems to be able to figure out.
Why Experience Matters in Gastroenterology
Medical school teaches the basics, but decades in the clinic teach the nuances. Dr. Caren J. Bennett MD started her journey at the University of Florida College of Medicine, graduating in 1991. If you do the math, that’s a massive amount of clinical hours. She didn’t just stop there; she completed her residency and fellowship at the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital, which is essentially the "big leagues" for medical training in the Southeast.
You've probably heard the term "board-certified" tossed around. It’s not just a fancy sticker. Dr. Bennett holds certifications from the American Board of Internal Medicine in both Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology. This means she’s cleared the high bars set by her peers to prove she actually knows her stuff when it comes to the esophagus, stomach, and beyond.
The Gastro Health Transition
A few years ago, specifically in February 2021, Dr. Bennett’s private practice was acquired by Gastro Health, LLC.
Some people worry when a solo doc joins a big group. They think the personal touch might disappear. But for Dr. Bennett, the move was largely about resources. Joining a massive network like Gastro Health meant her patients could get easier access to advanced tech and more streamlined scheduling while she kept her focus on the actual medicine. She still operates out of her office on Sheridan Street in Hollywood, keeping that local feel even with the backing of a national group.
What Dr. Caren J. Bennett MD Actually Treats
It’s a long list. Seriously. Most people go to see a GI for a colonoscopy, which is obviously important (and something she does a lot of). But her scope is way broader. We’re talking about:
- Esophageal Disorders: If you have chronic heartburn or feel like food is getting stuck, that’s her territory.
- Hemorrhoids and Constipation: These aren't fun topics, but she treats them "very high" frequency compared to other doctors, according to clinical data.
- Liver Health: She manages Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), which is becoming a huge issue in the US.
- The "Invisible" Illnesses: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Crohn’s disease are notoriously hard to manage, requiring a lot of trial and error.
She’s also affiliated with Memorial Regional Hospital and Memorial Hospital Pembroke. Having those hospital ties is a big deal. If something goes sideways and you need more than just an office visit, you want a doctor who has "staff privileges" at the major local medical centers. It keeps your care from getting fragmented.
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The Patient Perspective: Is She Right for You?
Let’s be real—not every doctor is a perfect fit for every patient. Some people want a doctor who is strictly business. Others want someone who will sit there and listen to their whole life story.
According to patient reviews and clinical "highlights," Dr. Bennett tends to lean toward the compassionate side. People often mention that she doesn’t rush the appointments. In a world where most doctors are pressured to see a patient every 15 minutes, that’s kind of a rarity.
The data from Healthgrades and other platforms shows high marks for:
- Explaining conditions clearly. No medical jargon that sounds like Latin.
- Trust in her decisions. This usually comes from that 30-year track record.
- Wait times. Usually reasonable, though any good specialist will have the occasional delay because of an emergency.
One thing to keep in mind: she doesn't participate in Medicaid. This is a common hurdle with many specialists, so you’ll want to double-check your specific insurance plan (like Aetna, BlueCross, or Cigna) before you head over to the Hollywood office.
Practical Steps for Your Visit
If you're planning to see Dr. Caren J. Bennett MD, don't just show up. You want to maximize that time.
First, get your records in order. If you’ve had blood work or imaging done elsewhere, bring it. Don't assume the systems "talk" to each other—half the time they don't.
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Second, be specific about your symptoms. "My stomach hurts" is a start, but "I get a sharp pain two inches above my belly button specifically 20 minutes after I eat bread" is a roadmap for a doctor.
Lastly, check the location. She’s at 7261 Sheridan St, Suite 100-C in Hollywood. It’s a busy area, so give yourself an extra ten minutes for parking.
Moving Forward with Your Digestive Health
Dealing with GI issues is exhausting. It affects your sleep, your mood, and basically your whole social life. Whether you need a screening colonoscopy because you hit the big 45 (the new recommended age!) or you're dealing with something more complex like GERD, finding a vet like Dr. Bennett is a solid move.
To get the ball rolling, verify your insurance coverage through the Gastro Health portal or give the Hollywood office a call directly to confirm they are accepting your specific plan. If you have previous GI records from a different state or health system, request those transfers now so they arrive before your initial consultation.