Feeling Fine Isn't the Same as Being in the Clear

10/2/2026

PBRMC Simplifies Access to Colonoscopy Screening

POPLAR BLUFF, MO – You feel healthy. You're busy. You don't have any symptoms. And a colonoscopy probably isn't at the top of your to-do list.

That's exactly why Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center (PBRMC) is making the screening process more convenient for eligible patients through its open-access colonoscopy program.

For certain healthy, age-appropriate patients, open-access screening allows them to schedule a colonoscopy without first having a separate pre-procedure consultation with a gastroenterologist—potentially saving an additional appointment, time and co-pays.

“People often think, ‘I feel fine, so I don't need to worry about it yet,’” said Victor Lawrinenko, M.D., gastroenterologist at PBRMC. “But the purpose of screening is to look for problems before they cause symptoms. Making the process easier can help patients take that important first step.”

For eligible patients, the open-access process can eliminate an additional step between deciding to get screened and scheduling the procedure.

Patients interested in the program can contact PBRMC's gastroenterology clinic to determine whether they meet the criteria. If appropriate, they can move forward with scheduling and receive instructions for preparing for their colonoscopy.

During a colonoscopy, the physician examines the colon for abnormalities, including polyps and other areas of concern. If appropriate, polyps can be removed during the procedure and sent for further evaluation.

Following the procedure, patients receive recommendations based on their findings, medical history and individual risk factors.

For adults at average risk, colorectal cancer screening generally begins at age 45. However, screening recommendations can vary depending on a person's family history, previous findings, medical conditions and other risk factors.

Open-access colonoscopy is intended for patients who meet specific screening criteria. Patients experiencing symptoms or those with certain health conditions or risk factors may require a physician consultation before a colonoscopy is scheduled.

“Open access doesn't mean everyone should skip a physician consultation,” Lawrinenko said. “It means that for patients who meet the appropriate criteria, we can make the screening process more direct.”

Colorectal cancer can develop without obvious symptoms, particularly in its earlier stages. A screening colonoscopy can identify precancerous polyps and other abnormalities before a patient ever knows something is wrong.

That makes screening different from waiting until something doesn't feel right.

“By the time someone develops symptoms, we may be dealing with a problem that has already progressed,” Lawrinenko said. “Screening gives us an opportunity to identify and address certain changes earlier.”

For many people, preventive healthcare gets pushed down the list because of work, family responsibilities and busy schedules. PBRMC's open-access program is designed to remove one potential barrier for patients who qualify.

If you're 45 or older and haven't completed your recommended colorectal cancer screening, now may be the time to ask whether an open-access colonoscopy is right for you.

To learn more about PBRMC's open-access colonoscopy program or determine whether you qualify, call 573-300-8604.

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