GI Associates
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Take advantage of our Direct Access Program

What thoughts cross your mind when the topic of colonoscopy screenings come up? We might be able to guess.

• It’s embarrassing.
• I don’t have the time.
• It’s expensive.
• I don’t have any symptoms.
• Colon cancer doesn’t run in my family, so I’m probably fine.
• It’s scary.

Are we right? These thoughts are common, and you know what? It can be scary. It can feel embarrassing. You probably are busy. And when you don’t have any symptoms, it can be hard to see the importance of getting regular screenings once you turn 45.

The reality is most colorectal cancers are found in people with no symptoms and no family history.

Your health is important, and our team at GI Associates is committed to creating an environment where you feel safe and comfortable to ask questions and make informed decisions about your health. And we’ve taken steps to make it easier, too.

Our Direct Access Colonoscopy Program was created so that eligible individuals can call and schedule a colonoscopy without a pre-procedure office visit.

Understand the steps of the GI Associates Direct Access Colonoscopy Program:

1. Call 715-847-2558 to request a colonoscopy screening. You do not have to be an established patient.
2. One of our team members will ask a short series of screening questions to determine if you’re able to schedule your colonoscopy without a pre-procedure office visit.
3. If you are eligible for the Direct Access Colonoscopy Program, a call is scheduled with one of our registered nurses to go over your health history and schedule your colonoscopy.

We know colonoscopy screenings are not fun, and you have other things you’re juggling. But we want you to rest easy knowing that you’ve taken the necessary steps to keep yourself healthy. The earlier that potential colorectal cancers and diseases are detected, the better the outcomes tend to be.

Take advantage of the GI Associates Direct Access Colonoscopy Program and get back to your daily routine with minimal disruption.

You have questions. We have answers.

What is a pre-procedure appointment? A pre-procedure appointment is an in-office visit with one of our GI specialists to talk through your health history and unique health needs.

Why would I need a pre-procedure appointment? Some examples of why you may need a pre-procedure appointment include:

• If you are on a blood thinner
• If you have been diagnosed with GERD
• If you have a history of colitis, such as Crohn’s disease or Ulcerative Colitis, or Barrett’s syndrome
• If you are experiencing GI symptoms like trouble swallowing, diarrhea or rectal bleeding.
• If you have had heart or breathing problems within the last year
• If you’ve had any heart stents placed in the last year

How long is the phone call with a registered nurse to go over health history? The phone call with a registered nurse typically takes about 20-30 minutes, including scheduling and patient education.

How far out are colonoscopies scheduled? Usually within 2-4 weeks. Certain locations do book out further.