Patient Testimonial: Dr. Yan Chen, M.D.

July 29, 2025

When Slater resident Deanna Wright scheduled her colonoscopy with Dr. Yan Chen, M.D., she hadn't had the important screening procedure in 14 years. With a family history of colon cancer affecting both her parents, Wright admitted she felt anxious about the procedure.

"I had a little bit of anxiety about having a colonoscopy, because my mom and dad both had colon cancer. I was nervous, but it turned out good," said Wright.

She said her experience with Dr. Chen and the team at Fitzgibbon Hospital in Marshall exceeded her expectations.

"I had a colonoscopy done on June 30th. It went very well,” said Wright. “The staff, Dr. Chen….just everybody did an excellent job. I didn't have any complications. I would definitely recommend Dr. Chen to other people."

Wright was particularly impressed with the efficiency and care she received throughout her visit.

"I got there at 9:30 a.m. for my procedure to be done at 11 a.m. I was out of there by 1 p.m." said Wright. “The staff absolutely put my mind at ease. I had the best nurse in ambulatory care."

Even the preparation process, often cited as patients' biggest concern, was more manageable than Wright expected.

"To me, the bad part was drinking the colon prep, but it wasn't as bad as when you had to drink the gallon when I had my first colonoscopy 14 years ago,” said Wright. “When you went to the hospital, they'd give you this gallon to take home. This time it was just Miralax with Propel, and it wasn't so bad."

Colonoscopy screening is one of the most effective tools for identification of colon cancer. Regular screening can detect precancerous polyps before they become cancerous and identify cancer in its early, most treatable stages. For individuals with a family history of colon cancer, like Wright, regular screening is especially crucial, according to medical experts.

The American Cancer Society recommends that people at average risk begin regular colon cancer screening at age 45, while those with family history or other risk factors may need to start earlier and screen more frequently.

Wright's message to others considering the procedure is clear:  "Anyone anxious about having a colonoscopy should definitely have it done."

Don't wait 14 years like Deanna did. Take control of your health today by calling our self-referral line at (660) 831-3208 to schedule your colonoscopy screening with Yan Chen, M.D., and his exceptional team.