Open Access Colonoscopy

The main difference between an Open Access Colonoscopy and a standard Colonoscopy lies in the referral and preparation process, not the procedure itself. Both involve the same medical exam —examining the colon using a flexible camera – but how you get there differs:

A colonoscopy scheduled without a prior consultation with a gastroenterologist. This streamlines the process for healthy, low-risk patients needing routine screening (typically for colorectal cancer). You complete a pre-screening questionnaire (by phone or online) and no separate GI consultation is required before the procedure, unless issues are flagged. Open Access is not suitable for patients with complex medical histories or GI symptoms.

A colonoscopy preceded by an in-person consultation with a gastroenterologist. This option provides more individualized assessment and discussion. You will meet with a GI doctor first to review your medical history, discuss symptoms (if any), and plan the procedure. This more comprehensive evaluation is better for those with symptoms, family history, or risk factors.

If you’re due for a routine screening and are generally healthy, an Open Access Colonoscopy may be a good option, you can complete the pre-screening form below. If you have symptoms (like abdominal pain, bleeding, or changes in bowel habits), or a family history of colorectal issues, a traditional colonoscopy route is more thorough.

• Is under age 65
• Has no serious chronic medical problems
• Has had a physical exam within the past 12 months

• Age 65 and over
• No physical exam within the last 12 months
• History of heart disease, heart attack, or endocarditis
• Heart valve replacement
• Pacemaker/Defibrillator/Stent
• On anticoagulation therapy (Coumadin, Plavix, Heparin, Ticlid, Lovenox)
• History of kidney disease
• History of chronic pulmonary problems (chronic asthma, emphysema, COPD)
• Joint replacement within 2 months
• Recent prominent change in bowel habits
• Anemia
• Mobility problems, paralysis, stroke, Parkinson's, TIA's
• New patient EGD (usually has symptoms which require an office visit)
• History of diabetes
• Weight over 350lbs/BMI over 40
• Alcohol or drug dependency
• Abdominal pain

If you believe that you qualify for an Open Access Colonoscopy, use the button to complete form. 

NOTE: This form is only for use by NEW patients who qualify to have an endoscopy procedure (colonoscopy) without a prior consultation. DO NOT complete this form if you are already an ESTABLISHED patient at Mesa GI.

Please send the front and back of your insurance card to mesagi@arizonadigestivehealth.com