Direct Access Colonoscopy
The Direct Access Colonoscopy Program allows qualified Kelsey-Seybold patients to fast-track the colonoscopy procedure at our Ambulatory Surgery Center, eliminating the need for healthy patients to meet with a Kelsey-Seybold gastroenterologist for a pre-consultation appointment. This program provides a welcome relief to a procedure that can often be thought of as inconvenient and worrisome for our patients.
To qualify, patients must have a Kelsey-Seybold primary care physician, be between the ages of 50 and 70, be in good health, and never had a colon screening in the past. These qualifications are assessed during a phone interview between the patient and a nurse.
According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States in men and women combined. Kelsey-Seybold gastroenterologists consider colonoscopy the preferred screening technique to help diagnose this disorder. A colonoscopy should be performed beginning at age 50, and every 10 years thereafter or as prescribed by the patient’s physician.
Any patient with outstanding or pending referrals to Cardiology or Pulmonary physicians, who requires supplemental oxygen therapy or has been diagnosed with advanced renal disease, coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder, or chronic lung disease will still need to schedule a pre-consultation with a Kelsey-Seybold gastroenterologist.