What You Should Know:
– The American Cancer Society (ACS) and Color Health have joined forces to launch a new pilot program aimed at increasing access to colorectal cancer screening in underserved communities.
– The program, recognized by the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, seeks to address disparities in cancer outcomes and improve early detection rates.
The Importance of Colorectal Cancer Early Detection
Colorectal cancer is highly treatable when detected early. However, many Americans continue to be diagnosed at late stages, leading to poorer outcomes. The program seeks to close these access gaps by providing free at-home fecal immunochemical test (FIT) kits to eligible individuals.
How the Program Works
- Distribution: Participating Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) and community clinics in rural and non-urban areas will receive FIT kits to distribute to eligible patients at no cost.
- Patient Support: Color Health will provide comprehensive support throughout the screening process, including test activation, result delivery, and care coordination.
- Results Sharing: Test results will be securely shared with healthcare providers, ensuring timely follow-up for patients with abnormal findings.
Benefits for Clinics and Patients
- Free Access: The program is entirely free for both clinics and patients, eliminating financial barriers to screening.
- Enhanced Community Health: Participating clinics can improve access to cancer screening services for their patients, contributing to overall community health.
- Improved Patient Outcomes: Early detection of colorectal cancer through regular screening can significantly improve patient outcomes and survival rates.
“This program is a key component of our overall collaboration with Color to ensure that every individual has access to lifesaving cancer care,” said Dr. Karen E. Knudsen, CEO of the American Cancer Society. “Together, we aim to break down barriers to care by supporting equally both those individuals with employer-sponsored coverage and those in rural communities who may lack coverage to take proactive steps toward their health.”