Time for a colonoscopy? You may not need a referral

Health and wellness

Life gets busy, and it’s easy to put off your own health. But if you're 45 or older, a colonoscopy could save your life — and you may not even need a referral to get one. That means less waiting, less hassle and more peace of mind.

Thanks to Open Access Colonoscopy, scheduling this potentially lifesaving screening is easier than ever. Gastroenterologist Alhareth Al Juboori, MD, explains how this hassle-free service works and whether you’re eligible.

“A colonoscopy is one of the most effective tools for detecting early signs of colorectal cancer and other health concerns,” Dr. Juboori says. “It allows us to identify and remove potential precancerous polyps before they become life-threatening. With Open Access Colonoscopy, you can take control of your health and complete this simple, well-tolerated, lifesaving screening — helping ensure early intervention that improves outcomes and saves lives.”

Is screening this simple?

Open Access Colonoscopy is a simpler, more convenient way to get screened for colon cancer — no referral may be needed. This service is available for healthy patients ages 45 to 75 who have no significant gastrointestinal symptoms or risk factors requiring a prior consultation. By skipping the extra steps, you can schedule your colonoscopy directly and take charge of your health with less hassle.

Are you eligible?

To determine if you’re eligible for Open Access Colonoscopy, a healthcare provider will ask a few questions about your age, family history and personal history of colorectal polyps or cancer. If you qualify, you can schedule your colonoscopy at your convenience — no referral needed. If not, your provider may recommend a consultation with a gastroenterologist before the procedure.

Why choose Open Access?

Open Access Colonoscopy makes it easier for patients to take charge of their preventive health. With this option, you can schedule your screening directly — no need for an extra appointment with a gastroenterologist. This can save both time and money by eliminating co-pays and additional office visits.

For healthcare providers, Open Access Colonoscopy allows for more timely and efficient procedures while maintaining the highest quality standards.

Is Open Access right for you?

While Open Access Colonoscopy is a great option for many, some patients should consult a gastroenterologist before scheduling a procedure. This includes individuals who:

  • Are 85 or older
  • Take blood thinners
  • Have recently had diverticulitis
  • Have heart disease
  • Have liver or kidney disease
  • Are at high risk for sedation or anesthesia-related complications
  • Have obstructive sleep apnea
  • Are pregnant
  • Have a history of difficult, complicated or incomplete colonoscopies

If any of these apply to you, speak with your healthcare provider to determine the best next steps.

Ready for care that puts you first?

At HonorHealth Gastroenterology, your health and well-being come first. With a team of experienced, compassionate specialists working together to provide seamless care, you can feel confident knowing you're in expert hands. Whether you're scheduling a routine screening or navigating next steps, we're here to make the process easier and more convenient. Take charge of your health today — because you deserve care that’s not just advanced, but also personal.

Colon cancer screening, simplified

Take the stress out of scheduling — our expert team is here to make it easy. At HonorHealth Gastroenterology, we’ll help you find the right screening plan for your needs, with support at every step. A simple appointment today could mean peace of mind for years to come.

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