My primary physician retired a couple years ago and I not crazy about the guy I've seen the last couple of visits. So I'm looking to change my primary doc. But I'd like to have a colonoscopy done so I can check that off the list. Do I need to go thru a general practitioner to get that scheduled or can I just schedule with a gastroenterologist directly? How's that work? Any advice?

Usually have to have a referral from a primary care dr.

My doc gave me a list of recommended gastroenterologists, but I was responsible for calling and setting everything up. Didn't really need a referral. Was easy to schedule and have my colonoscopy coming up in June.

you can to any GI and schedule no PC involved.

I just called them directly ti schedule. No referral needed.

Same, found a GI and had a consult, but that may have been since I was younger than 45.

There are a couple factors that could determine if a referral is needed. Main thing being your insurance. Some HMOs will require it. And if it's anything other than routine screening colonoscopy at the correct age, you'll almost certainly need a referral.

Darthag11 said:

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you can to any GI and schedule no PC involved.

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