Direct Access Colonoscopy (DAC) is currently available at Liverpool and Campbelltown Hospitals, and will be centralising the intake of referrals through the Triple I Hub on 1 August 2022 which is expected to reduce waiting times.
GPs can now refer patients with positive FOBT, conducted via the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program or through private pathology, directly for colonoscopy without first needing an appointment to see a gastroenterologist. The gastroenterologist will only see the patient on the day of colonoscopy.
The Direct Access Colonoscopy Service is available to patients who are:
- FOBT positive result
- 50 to 74 years
- Living in Fairfield, Liverpool, Campbelltown, Camden, Wollondilly Local Government Areas
- Meet referral criteria (download flyer)
Patients referred to the Direct Access Colonoscopy Clinic will be triaged, and if appropriate, allocated to the next available gastroenterologist. Healthy patients with minimal co-morbidities will be triaged directly to their colonoscopy. The DAC Coordinator will liaise directly with the GP and patient, and guide the patient through the entire process. Patients with chronic co-morbidities who are not suitable for Direct Access Colonoscopy will be scheduled for an appointment within the regular Gastroenterology Department and clinics, as per current practice.
From August 1, GPs must use the new Triple-I referral form completing the FOBT positive section and sending the completed form to the Triple I Hub so the referral is triaged appropriately. Incomplete referrals will be returned to the GP.