Click here to download Direct Access Colonoscopy referral form. This form then needs to be either faxed back or sent with the patient to their appointment.
Click here to download Direct Access Colonoscopy referral form (.pdf).
Patients suitable for Direct Access Colonoscopy include those with:
- Positive Faecal occult blood test (FOBT)
- Per rectal (PR) bleeding
- A prior history of polyps or carcinoma requiring surveillance colonoscopy
- A family history of bowel cancer
- Known familial cancer syndrome (FAP or HNPCC)
Patients must have private health insurance, or be willing to pay private hospital fees to access this service
The referral process
Patients must be referred by either their general practitioner or specialist. Referral forms can be downloaded from above and then either faxed (1300 88 24 76) or emailed through to the surgery.
Patients will be contacted by practice staff to confirm their suitability for the programme and to answer any questions the patient might have. An appointment will then be made for the patient to have their colonoscopy at the hospital of their choice.
Patients will be sent a colonoscopy information sheet and pre-procedure instructions by mail.
Patients will be admitted to Day Procedure department of the hospital where their surgeon will see them. Following this consultation, their colonoscopy will be performed.
Results of the colonoscopy will be discussed with the patient on the day of procedure, with a report sent to the referring doctor.
Patients may not be eligible for Direct Access Colonoscopy and require an initial consultation in our rooms if:
- The patient requires an opinion as to whether a colonoscopy is needed at this time.
- The patient has significant medical comorbidities (including but not limited to diabetes, cardiomyopathy, conditions requiring anticoagulant therapy or home oxygen therapy)
- The patient is unable to readily give consent (eg due to language difficulties or cognitive disorders)
- The patient is unable to undergo bowel prep at home.
Should you be uncertain as to whether your patient is appropriate for our Direct Access Colonoscopy programme, please contact the rooms to discuss with Dr Kariappa or Dr Jamnagerwalla.
