Request to Self-Refer for a Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is recommended to screen for colorectal cancer if you are at increased risk because of a personal and/or family history of colorectal cancer or high-risk polyps. For individuals with family history, screening is recommended to begin at age 40 or 10 years earlier than the youngest affected first degree relative. PEI residents without a primary care provider may self-refer for a colonoscopy through the Colorectal Cancer Screening Program.

Do I qualify to self-refer for a colonoscopy?

You are eligible to self-refer for a colonoscopy if:

• You have a personal history of colorectal cancer or high-risk polyps
• You have a first degree relative (parent, sibling or child) with a history of colorectal cancer or high-risk polyps
• You do not have a primary care provider
• You are under 75 years old (unless already being monitored)
• You do not have any symptoms (e.g., frequent diarrhea or constipation, persistent abdominal discomfort, rectal bleeding, etc.) 

What do I need to do to self-refer for a colonoscopy? 

You will need to:

• provide your personal contact information
• provide your Personal Health Number (PHN)
• indicate your reason for a colonoscopy (i.e. personal and/or family history)
• indicate dates of any previous colonoscopies, if applicable (Note: if you had a colonoscopy and it was was not done in PEI, you will be requested to provide a copy of your colonoscopy procedure and pathology report)

What happens after I submit my self-referral for a colonoscopy?

Your request will be reviewed by a Nurse Navigator with the Colorectal Cancer Screening Program. If you meet the program criteria, the next step will be to do a health assessment over the telephone. Following the health assessment, a colonoscopy will be booked by the Nurse Navigator if appropriate. Please allow 2 to 4 weeks for your request to be processed.