You are here

Direct Access Colonoscopy Appointments in Melbourne

Patients may be able to access our Direct Access Colonoscopy Program. This is where a doctor or GP is able to refer a patient directly for a colonoscopy without an initial consultation with the specialist.

Direct Access Colonoscopy - doctor examining medical equipment

This direct access program is available to patients who:

  • Are fit and healthy
  • Are under 80
  • Have no history of heart disease, diabetes, epilepsy, kidney/liver disease, or serious lung disease
  • Are not on anticoagulants

Patients must have one of the following indications:

  • Positive faecal occult blood test
  • Family history of colorectal cancer
  • A history of precancerous polyps
  • Rectal bleeding (in patients over 40)

What is a colonoscopy?

A colonoscope is, literally, a device for looking inside the bowel. It is a type of endoscope, which has been in use since 1957 when it was invented by Basil Hirschowitz and Larry Curtiss, but endoscope-like devices had been in use for a long time before that.

Colonoscopy is the most effective method of diagnosing bowel conditions and is not as invasive as conventional surgery, as the device is inserted via a natural opening (the anus), so no incisions have to be made. Consequently, there is much less stress placed on the body and no scars. This results in quicker procedures and faster recovery. Colonoscopes also have operating equipment attached so that the surgeon can not only view organs (generally on a large TV screen), but can also perform minor surgery during the procedure.

Most colonoscopy procedures are quick, with no hospital stay required and only a very short period of observation needed afterwards.

Visit our colonoscopy clinic

If you have a referral from your doctor or GP, you may be able to book an appointment with us directly – eliminating the need for a specialist consultation.

As a specialist colorectal surgeon, Dr Raaj Chandra can also perform a range of other related procedures, such as small bowel resection and laparoscopic surgery. This means that Dr Chandra can address many issues that may come to light as a result of the colonoscopy.

Dr Raaj Chandra consults at Box Hill Medical Suites and performs gastroscopy and colonoscopy at Epworth Eastern Hospital Box Hill. To book a consultation, call today on (03) 9895 7100.