He has a surveillance colonoscopy every year, and before last year had it every two years.
"If I left it for a lengthy period of time and they catch it and it's a bit too late, [it could] cost me my life.''
Previously, Mr McFarlane (57) paid for colonoscopies in the private sector, but last year was able to secure one in the public sector.
"I've heard through friends, there's been two or three who have got through very quickly as well [in Dunedin Hospital]. And that surprises me.''
Mr McFarlane said improved access to colonoscopy at Dunedin Hospital boded well for how it might cope with the screening programme.
It was crucial the programme had enough trained staff to be delivered properly, he said.
He will be close to the age of eligibility (60 to 74) when the programme starts in Southern DHB in 2018.
Mr McFarlane believes the age is a "wee bit too old'', and it should start at 45 or 50.
"It's a decade in your life [the 50s] when a lot changes - there's lots going on, so why wait until 60 when you're getting near retirement?''
