Direct Access Colonoscopy: A Simpler Way to Get Screened
Ami Patel, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist and internal medicine provider with VHC Health. Dr. Patel's expertise includes general gastroenterology, intestinal diseases, and colon cancer screening. She practices at the VHC Health Gastroenterology - Arlington and Kingstowne locations.
Colorectal cancer is on the rise, and screening is recommended starting at age 45 for those at average risk by the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force. A colonoscopy is diagnostic and therapeutic, meaning a gastroenterologist can detect polyps and remove them during the same procedure. If you’re healthy, don’t have ongoing gastrointestinal symptoms, and can undergo anesthesia, you may be eligible for a direct access colonoscopy – a convenient option that eliminates the need for an initial office visit.
How It Works
- Your primary care provider can refer you for a direct colonoscopy, or you can call VHC Health Gastroenterology to get started.
- VHC Health Gastroenterology will reach out and ask questions about symptoms and collect your medical history. A provider will review the information and contact you to move forward with scheduling through your MyVHC patient portal or by phone.
- You skip the pre-screening office visit and go straight to the colonoscopy appointment.
This streamlined process makes it easier than ever to fit a life-saving screening into your busy schedule.
Who Should Get Screened?
- Everyone age 45 and older (or earlier if you have risk factors like family history).
- Anyone experiencing symptoms such as abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, changes in bowel habits, or blood in the stool.
If you’re unsure about your risk or eligibility for a direct access colonoscopy, talk to your primary care provider or call one of our VHC Health Gastroenterology offices. Keep in mind there are other forms of colorectal cancer screening, and we are happy to discuss which test is right for you.
