March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
Posted on February 18, 2022
Did you put off getting tested for colorectal cancer because of the pandemic? Many people did. But, now is the time to call your doctor to schedule your screening. Be aware that it may take 2–3 months to get an appointment for a colonoscopy, so don’t delay. The good news is that colorectal cancer is one of the most treatable cancers if it’s caught early, and the best way to prevent colorectal cancer is to get screened.
Types of Screenings
As a Health New England Medicare Advantage member, multiple screening tests are available to you depending on your health and risk factors:
1. Colonoscopy is a screening that visually examines the lining of the colon. It can include the removal of pre-cancerous polyps in the same visit. If you have a personal or family history of colorectal cancer, polyps or inflammatory bowel disease, this is the best test for you.
2. Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) is for people who cannot or prefer not to get a colonoscopy. This test can be done in the privacy of your home and then mailed to a lab.
3. Cologuard, or FIT-DNA test, is another non-invasive option, done at home. This type of test finds abnormal DNA and blood in the stool sample. (Reminder: A prior authorization is no longer required for Cologuard®, or FIT-DNA test, as this is considered preventive care and is covered every three years by your Medicare Advantage plan.)
4. NEW: Health New England and Quest Diagnostics® have recently partnered to offer members a non-invasive way to screen for lower gastrointestinal bleeding, which may be due to colorectal cancer or other causes. You may have received a letter or email from Quest about the no-cost InSure® ONE™ collection kit. Be sure to take advantage of this no-cost option if it’s right for you.
We recommend you talk with your doctor to determine which screening is right for you. Then, after your screening, your doctor will discuss with you the results and any additional follow-up if needed.
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