Direct-access endoscopy allows patients who meet certain criteria to be directly referred for a procedure (gastroscopy, colonoscopy) by their GP, without having to have a formal consultation with the gastroenterologist. This provides a quicker, less onerous and less costly option for appropriate patients.

DSA Gastroenterology offers an direct-access endoscopy service at the following private hospitals:

• Shellharbour Private Hospital
• Wollongong Day Surgery

To be eligible for direct-access endoscopy you must:

• Have an indication for the procedure which is covered under the Medicare Benefits Schedule
• Be able to provide informed consent
• Be under the age of 80 years

AND

Not have any of the following:

• Regular anticoagulants/antiplatelets medications OTHER THAN ASPIRIN
• Insulin-requiring diabetes
• Use of SGLT2 inhibitors (dapagliflozin, empagliflozin, ertugliflozin) for diabetes
• Function-impairing cardiac or respiratory disease
• Chronic kidney disease (eGFR < 30ml/min)

To arrange a procedure, you will need to discuss if you are eligible with your GP, and have your GP provide a referral stipulating which procedures are requested, and the indication for the procedures. This referral should then be taken directly to the participating private hospital of your choosing. The private hospital staff will then make arrangements for your procedure.

Your chosen gastroenterologist will meet you and speak with you before your procedure. A brief consultation will occur and informed consent for the procedure will be obtained.