Colonoscopies

Call your primary care physician to get your referral for a colonoscopy at Rio Grande Hospital.
For more information please call 719-657-4114.

Colonoscopy Resources

Below are some useful downloadable resources related to the colonoscopy procedure:

Colonoscopy FAQs

Below are some frequently asked questions and useful resources about the colonoscopy procedure:

Do I need a referral to request an appointment?

Every insurance plan is different; please call your insurance carrier to determine whether or not you need a referral from your primary care physician. As a rule, patients with Medicare and a PPO insurance plan do not need a referral. Patients with an HMO insurance plan typically do require a referral.

Where do I park for my procedure?

For your procedure, you can park in the parking facility or get dropped off at the main entrance.

What is your appointment cancellation policy?

We require 24 hours’ notice to cancel an office appointment and 72 hours’ notice to cancel a procedure. These hours apply to business days only. If you need to cancel your procedure, please call 719-657-4160 as soon as you can. We can possible reschedule at that time.

Do I need to bring my medical records to my pre-op visit?

We can obtain you medical records from your referring physician. Please bring your current medication list. For a medication list form, please click here.

Why do I have to update my patient information every time I have an appointment?

In order to file your insurance claims accurately, we must have your most recent information along with a copy of your insurance card. This will ensure all of your insurance claims are being filed correctly and in a timely manner.

How do I obtain a copy of my medical record?

You will need to fill out a medical record release form. If you have a special request, please let our staff know.

What do I do if I have an emergency?

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room. If you have non-emergency questions, please call 719-657-4160.

Do I really need to have a Colonoscopy?

The need for a colonoscopy is real. Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. amongst both men and women, yet it is totally preventable. During a colonoscopy, a gastroenterologist can remove benign polyps that have the potential to grow into colon cancer. By following the recommended screening guidelines, colon cancer is essentially preventable.

Do I need to come in for an office consultation prior to my Colonoscopy?

Yes. You will need to come in for a pre-op visit. You will be given all the information you need at that time, including the necessary prep instructions.

My friend recently had a procedure and his/her prep was different than mine. Why?

Different physicians prefer different preparations for colonoscopy. You should follow the preparation instructions exactly as it was prescribed for you. Rest assured, our physicians have a lot of experience. Any questions you have should be directed to our staff.

I have a procedure scheduled and now I have some last minute concerns or issues; what do I do?

Please refer to either the endoscopy or colonoscopy preparation sheet that provided to you. If you still have questions, call the office at 719-657-4160.

Does a Colonoscopy hurt?

No. We offer sedation at our affiliated endoscopy center. You will sleep through your procedure and wake up shortly after the procedure is completed. Patient comfort during a procedure is a very high priority of our physicians.

Will I be in a private room for my procedure?

Endoscopy and Colonoscopy are always done behind closed doors, in a private room, with no other patients around. Your privacy is a top concern.

How will I feel after my procedure?

After the procedure, you will be taken to the recovery area. Most people feel fine after waking up. Some patients feel a bit woozy, but this is temporary. You will be watched closely by one of our nurses and given fluids. You may have some gas, which could cause mild temporary discomfort. When you are fully awake, you will dress into your clothes and then be discharged.

How long will I be at the Endoscopy center after my procedure?

Approximately 2 hours after you have arrived and registered.

What do I need to bring with me for my procedure?

Please bring a list of your current medications including over-the-counter medicines, as well as a current copy of your insurance card. It is advisable for you to bring the phone number of the person who will be picking you up after the procedure (see below). Dress in comfortable clothing. Do not wear jewelry.

Will I be able to drive after my procedure?

No. You will not be able to drive for the remainder of the day of your procedure. You will need someone to drive you home after your procedure. If you are dropped off or your transportation leaves during the procedure, the staff will need a phone number where they can be reached. You may resume normal activities, including driving, on the day following the procedure.

When and what can I eat after my procedure?

You can eat as soon as you leave the procedure facility. It is recommended that your first meal consist of relatively “light” food such as chicken soup, a turkey sandwich, or eggs & toast. Since you will have received sedation and your stomach will be empty, eating anything too rich or heavy might give you an upset stomach. You may resume your normal diet after the initial meal following your procedure.

When can I expect my test results?

Biopsy results usually take 5-7 business days for the report to arrive in our office. Review your discharge instruction handout provided to you after your procedure for follow up instructions. Most blood tests and radiology tests results usually require 2-3 business days.

Will my primary care provider receive a report of my procedure?

Yes. Your primary care provider will receive a copy of all reports including the procedure report, biopsy or pathology report, and any other reports of tests that the physician has ordered.

Mission: With a smile and a helping hand, we provide quality care and service to our communities.

Vision: We will distinguish ourselves as the trusted healthcare destination.
We will provide compassionate healthcare and advocate wellness through innovative access, preventive medicine,
and collaborative partnerships within our diverse community.

OUR LOCATIONS

Rio Grande Hospital

310 County Road 14
Del Norte, CO 81132
Tel: 719-657-2510
Open: 24/7

Creede Family Practice

802 Rio Grande
Creede, CO 81130
Tel: 719-658-0929

Rio Grande
Hospital Clinic

310C County Road 14
Del Norte, CO 81132
Tel: 719-657-2418

Monte Vista Medical Clinic & Pharmacy

1033 2nd Avenue
Monte Vista, CO 81144
Tel: 719-852-8827
Pharmacy Tel: 719-628-0533

Rio Grande Hospital Clinic at South Fork

52 Jackson Street
South Fork, CO 81154
Tel: 719-873-5494