Oaklawn General Surgeons Now Offering Online Scheduling for Colonoscopies
Oaklawn is making it easier than ever to take charge of your health. Patients can now schedule their colonoscopy appointments with Oaklawn’s General Surgeons online—no phone call or referral required.
This new service allows patients to book their procedure anytime, day or night, with just a few clicks. By eliminating the wait for a call back, Oaklawn is giving patients greater control and flexibility when managing their health care.
“Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers with routine screening,” said Dr. Catherine Burtrum, one of Oaklawn’s General Surgeons. “By making colonoscopy scheduling available online, we’re removing barriers and making it more convenient for people to take that important step toward prevention.”
Screening Recommendations
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends that average-risk adults begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45 and continue through age 75 (USPSTF, 2021). For individuals between 76 and 85, screening decisions should be individualized based on overall health and prior screening history.
Colonoscopy remains the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening, as it not only detects cancer early but also allows for the removal of precancerous polyps in the same procedure (American Cancer Society, 2023).
Who Should Consider Early Screening?
While most adults should begin at age 45, earlier screening may be necessary for those with:
- A personal or family history of colorectal cancer or advanced polyps
- A history of inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis)
- Certain inherited syndromes, such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis
- Concerning symptoms such as rectal bleeding, persistent changes in bowel habits, or unexplained abdominal pain
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related death in the U.S., but regular screening tests can reduce both incidence and mortality (CDC, 2024).
Convenient Access, Better Prevention
Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States, but it is highly treatable when found early. Oaklawn’s new online scheduling option makes it easier for community members to follow recommended screening guidelines without unnecessary delays.
To schedule your colonoscopy with Oaklawn’s General Surgeons, visit oaklawnhospital.org and click “Book Now”, or go directly to bit.ly/schedule-colonoscopy.
Sources:
- U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Colorectal Cancer: Screening. JAMA. 2021;325(19):1965-1977.
- American Cancer Society. Colorectal Cancer Screening Guidelines. Updated 2023.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Colorectal Cancer Statistics. Updated 2024.
