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What is direct access colonoscopy?

Direct access colonoscopy allows for patients without any major symptoms or medical problems to directly schedule a colonoscopy without the need for an office consultation.

How do I know if I qualify for a direct access colonoscopy?

You must be 45 years-old or above. If you're younger than 45 years-old but have a family history of colon cancer, please schedule a consultation to determine if you need an early colonoscopy.

You must NOT have any significant GI symptoms:

  • Unexplained abdominal pain
  • Uncontrolled heartburn
  • Unexplained nausea or vomiting
  • Chronic unexplained diarrhea
  • Rectal bleeding or blood in stool
  • Unintentional weight loss
  • Difficulty swallowing

You must NOT be on any of the following blood thinners (baby aspirin is ok):

  • Coumadin (warfarin)
  • Plavix (clopidogrel)
  • Xarelto (rivaroxaban)
  • Eliquis (apixaban)
  • Pradaxa (dabigatran)
  • Effient (prasugrel)
  • Lovenox (enoxaparin)

You must NOT have any of the following major medical conditions:

  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
  • Congestive heart failure (CHF)
  • Morbid obesity with a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 45
  • Recent heart attack or heart stent placed within the last 1 year
  • Recent pulmonary embolism (PE) or deep vein thrombosis (DVT) within the last 6 months
  • Unexplained anemia

Complete the Direct Access Colonoscopy Referral Form

What happens next?

Your form will be processed and a representative from the general surgery department will call you within five business days to schedule your colonoscopy. After the procedure is complete, you will be contacted within two weeks to discuss your pathology results.

Preparing for your procedure.

Colonoscopy Prep Instructional Video

Colonoscopy Preparation Diet Instructions

Call 970-641-3927 for more information.

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