The NHS Bowel Cancer Screening Programme (NHS BCSP) is being implemented over a 3 year period and the aim is to recruit expert colonoscopists to carry out the 30,000 extra colonoscopies required to fulfil the programme. Given the known variability in colonoscopic skills, strict criteria for the accreditation of screening endoscopists have been developed to minimise the risks of complications and inaccurate and incomplete examinations.

There are several advantages of this accreditation process, both to the unit and the individual endoscopists involved. Accreditation is an essential part of the preparations for the implementation of screening locally. It also provides an opportunity to demonstrate high level colonoscopic skills, and to improve the local endoscopy service. In addition it will help those clinicians who wish to teach colonoscopy, locally or on courses.

To find out more about the accreditation process see the Guidelines section.