Rapid Access Endoscopy

Rapid Access Endoscopy may be appropriate for patients who need timely investigation or surveillance and are suitable to proceed without an initial specialist consultation.

When to Refer

Common reasons for referral include a positive bowel screening test, iron deficiency anaemia, rectal bleeding, persistent change in bowel habit, unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms, family history requiring surveillance, or planned recall colonoscopy.

Referral Pathway

1. GP completes referral with relevant history, medications and indication
2. Referral is reviewed by the endoscopy team or specialist for suitability and urgency
3. If suitable, the patient is contacted with booking information, preparation instructions and consent information
4. If additional assessment is needed, the patient may be booked for a specialist consultation before any procedure
5. After the procedure, a report and follow-up recommendations are sent to the referring GP.

Patient Suitability

Rapid access pathways are generally intended for patients who are clinically stable and can safely complete preparation, sedation and discharge requirements. Some patients may need a consultation first, including those with:

• Complex medical conditions
• Significant cardiac or respiratory disease
• Recent acute illness
• Frailty
• High anaesthetic risk
• Complex anticoagulation needs
• Suspected acute bleeding
• Severe abdominal pain
• Suspected obstruction or perforation
• The need for advanced interventional endoscopy.

Information for Patients: What Is Endoscopy?

Endoscopy is a procedure that uses a thin flexible camera to look inside part of the digestive system. A gastroscopy looks at the oesophagus, stomach and first part of the small bowel. A colonoscopy looks at the large bowel. During the procedure, the doctor may take biopsies, remove polyps or treat certain findings where appropriate.

What to Expect

Most endoscopy procedures are performed as day procedures under sedation or anaesthesia. You will receive instructions before your appointment, including when to stop eating or drinking, how to take bowel preparation if you are having a colonoscopy, and what to do about regular medicines. Because sedation can affect coordination and judgement, you must arrange for a responsible adult to take you home and follow the discharge instructions provided by the endoscopy unit.

Preparing for Your Procedure

• Follow the specific instructions provided by the endoscopy unit, as preparation may vary
• Tell the team about all medicines, including blood thinners, diabetes medicines, iron tablets, supplements and injections for weight loss or diabetes
• For colonoscopy, bowel preparation is essential so the doctor can clearly see the bowel lining
• For gastroscopy, fasting is required so the stomach is empty and the procedure can be performed safely
• Bring your referral, Medicare card, private health insurance details if applicable, medication list and any relevant test results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a referral?

Yes. A current referral from your GP or specialist is required so the endoscopy team can review your medical history, the reason for the procedure and whether rapid access is suitable for you.

Will I see the specialist before the procedure?

Not always. If your referral is straightforward and you are suitable for rapid access, you may proceed directly to the procedure after clinical review and pre-admission screening. If there are medical or procedural concerns, you may be asked to attend a consultation first.

How quickly can I be booked?

Timing depends on clinical urgency, availability, insurance or funding arrangements, and whether further information is needed. Referrals are reviewed to prioritise patients safely and appropriately.

What symptoms should I discuss with my GP?

Speak with your GP if you have blood in the stool, a persistent change in bowel habit, unexplained weight loss, ongoing abdominal pain, iron deficiency anaemia, difficulty swallowing, persistent reflux symptoms, vomiting, or symptoms that are new, worsening or concerning.

Can polyps be removed during colonoscopy?

Yes, many polyps can be removed during colonoscopy if it is safe to do so. Some larger or more complex polyps may require a separate procedure or specialist review.

Can I drive home afterwards?

No. If you receive sedation or anaesthesia, you must not drive after the procedure. You will need a responsible adult to take you home and stay with you as instructed by the endoscopy unit.

When will I receive my results?

You may receive preliminary findings on the day. If biopsies or polyps are sent for pathology, final results may take several days. A report and follow-up recommendations are generally sent to your referring GP.

What if I am not suitable for rapid access?

If rapid access is not suitable, you may still be able to have endoscopy after a specialist consultation or additional assessment. This helps ensure the safest and most appropriate plan for your circumstances.

Bowel Cancer Screening Program

Bowel cancer is one of the most common cancers in Australia, but when it is found early, more than 90% of cases can be successfully treated. The National Bowel Cancer Screening Program helps detect early signs of bowel cancer before symptoms appear, using a simple, free test you can do at home.

Who is eligible?

Eligible Australians aged 45 to 74 can take part in the program. People aged 50 to 74 are sent a free home test kit every two years. People aged 45 to 49 can request their first free kit through the National Cancer Screening Register or speak with their GP about getting a kit.

How the test works

The screening test looks for tiny traces of blood in your bowel motion that may not be visible. Follow the instructions in the kit, collect small samples at home, and return them using the reply-paid envelope. If the result is positive, it does not mean you have cancer, but you should see your doctor promptly to discuss the next steps, which may include a colonoscopy.

When to see your GP

Screening is for people who do not have symptoms. If you notice blood in your bowel motion, a persistent change in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, ongoing abdominal pain, bloating, or symptoms of anaemia such as tiredness or breathlessness, please speak with your GP rather than waiting for a screening kit.

Take action today

If you receive a bowel screening kit, complete it as soon as you can. If your kit is lost, expired or you are aged 45 to 49 and would like to request one, contact the National Cancer Screening Register on 1800 627 701 or ask your GP for advice.