Jay Yepuri, MD
Colonoscopy Doctor in Bedford, TX
Colonoscopy Specialist
As a leading gastroenterologist in Bedford and the surrounding Fort Worth, TX areas, Dr. Yepuri is an expert in colon cancer screening with colonoscopy. Early detection is the key to beating this cancer. Average-risk individuals should be screened for colon cancer beginning at 45 years of age.
Colonoscopy Advantages
It is also important to remember that because patients are sedated, they experience no pain or discomfort during their colonoscopy.
Selecting a Colonoscopy Doctor in Bedford, TX
When choosing a colonoscopy doctor in Dallas Forth Worth it is important to evaluate the available quality metrics to assess each doctor’s proficiency and thoroughness. The key metrics used to determine the quality of the colonoscopies a doctor performs are:
- Adenoma detection rate (ADR). ADRs look at how often an individual Gastroenterologist finds and removes precancerous polyps.
- Cecal withdrawal time. The withdrawal time refers to the length of time it takes for that physician to withdraw the colonoscope (examining the colon on the way out) once the beginning of the colon is reached during a colonoscopy.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommends the following quality performance for these indicators:
- Adenoma Detection Rate (ADR): 25% (men) and 15% (women)
- Cecal Withdrawal Time: 6 minutes
In 2022, Dr. Yepuri’s average ADR and withdrawal times were:
- ADR: 50% (men) and 31% (women)
- Cecal Withdrawal Time: 9.1 minutes
Dr. Jay Yepuri’s average ADR and withdrawal times represent the high-quality colonoscopies he performs by exceeding the recommended NIH guidelines. These performance metrics should help to instill confidence in the quality of colonoscopy you’ll be receiving with Dr. Yepuri.
Direct Access Scheduling
The direct Access scheduling option allows medically eligible patients to proceed directly with a screening (preventative) colonoscopy without an office visit first.
By offering this option, we hope to save eligible patients the time and cost of an office visit prior to their procedure. In doing so, our goal is to increase participation rates for colon cancer screening in DFW.
Colon Cancer Screening Recommendation
Colonoscopies are performed both for the evaluation of symptoms and for the prevention of colon cancer. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force and other medical societies recommend that average-risk individuals (those without a family history of colon cancer or colon polyps) have their first colon cancer screening (for preventative purposes) at age 45.
However, the age and reasons why a patient should have their first colon cancer screening can vary based on a variety of factors including their family history and personal medical history. In addition, the interval between exams will vary from patient to patient for these same reasons.
The best way to decrease the incidence of colon cancer is to make sure people follow established guidelines for colon cancer screening. According to the Centers for Disease Control, one in three adults aged 50 to 75 years has not been tested for colorectal cancer.
Colonoscopy Cost in Dallas?
The cost of a colonoscopy varies based on insurance plans and individual insurance policies.
One important distinction to keep in mind from an insurance standpoint is the difference between a screening colonoscopy (done with a patient who has no symptoms) and one done for the evaluation of symptoms.
Depending on the insurance provider and policy specifics, a screening colonoscopy may be up to 100% covered as a preventative procedure. On the other hand, when a colonoscopy is done for the evaluation of symptoms, a patient’s usual co-pays and deductibles might apply. Our experienced office staff will provide you with a clear and concise picture of all costs prior to your cancer screening.
Competitive Facility Fees
Furthermore, the vast majority of our colon cancer screenings are performed at the Digestive Health Center of Bedford. We maximize value for our patients by performing their cancer screening in this high-quality, low-cost endoscopy center.
Colonoscopy Prep Tips
Since some patients are a little tentative regarding the colonoscopy prep, I wanted to dispel some of those apprehensions by creating a video. I encourage you to view this video to learn the importance of doing a good job with your prep and a few tips on how to make the process a little easier. Good luck with your prep!
Don’t Ignore Symptoms
Colonoscopies are also performed for the evaluation of a variety of symptoms including (but not limited to) abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, blood in the stool, diarrhea, constipation, unexplained weight loss, and a change in bowel habits. A thorough discussion and evaluation of your symptoms with your Gastroenterologist will help determine if a colon screening should be the next step in your care.
This study published by the American Cancer Society found that “new cases of colon cancer and rectal cancer are occurring at an increasing rate among young and middle-aged adults in the US” and emphasizes the importance of seeking evaluation for any concerning signs or symptoms.