Time for a colonoscopy? You may not need a referral

Health and wellness

A colonoscopy is one of the best tools out there for detecting pre-cancerous polyps, colorectal cancers and inflammatory bowel disease. And now, it’s easier to schedule a routine colonoscopy with a service called Open Access Colonoscopy.

Here's what you need to know about this service and if you’re eligible.

What is Open Access Colonoscopy?

Open Access Colonoscopy is a simpler way to get screened for colon cancer. HonorHealth offers this service for healthy patients between the ages 45 and 75.

Who’s eligible?

To see if you're eligible, call your HonorHealth primary care physician. Medical staff will ask you a few questions to determine if Open Access Colonoscopy is right for you. This will include your age, family history and personal history of colorectal polyps or cancer.

If you are eligible, you can simply schedule the colonoscopy at your convenience. If you aren’t, ask your primary care physician for a referral to a gastroenterologist (GI) for a pre-procedure appointment.

You may not need a referral for a colonoscopy with a Direct Access Colonoscopy service

What are the benefits of Open Access Colonoscopy?

Open Access Colonoscopy offers many benefits to patients and physicians.

First, it empowers patients to take charge of this preventive health screening and schedule it on their own time. There's no need to make an appointment with a GI doctor in the office. This type of colonoscopy saves patients money, too, since there's no co-pay or other related expenses.

Open Access Colonoscopies also enable doctors to perform endoscopic procedures in a timely and efficient manner while maintaining the highest quality standards.
 

Who shouldn't get an Open Access Colonoscopy?

While Open Access Colonoscopies are appropriate for many people, there are some patients who should always see a GI before they get a colonoscopy. These include people who:

  • Are age 85 or older
  • Are taking blood thinner medication
  • Have recently had diverticulitis
  • Have been diagnosed with heart disease
  • Have been diagnosed with diseases of other major organs, such as the liver or kidneys
  • Are at a high risk for sedation/anesthesia-related complications
  • Have been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea
  • Are pregnant
  • Have a history of difficult, complicated or incomplete colonoscopies

If you fall into these categories, talk to your primary care physician before scheduling a colonoscopy.
 

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