Volume 13, Number 7: December 2005
Another National Standout: CHP's Colon Screening Program
"We are proud of our program and the national recognition. We recognize that our ranking is a reflection of our member's willingness to access the services that CHP provides and we commend them for that. I also congratulate the physicians for encouraging their patients to focus on preventative care."
Tara C. Loucks, ARNP-C
Clinical Director
Colon Screening Program
The National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) recently ranked Capital Health Plan fourth nationally among HMOs for the number of members screened for colon cancer. This achievement is due to CHP's ongoing Colon Screening Program. "We are proud of our program and the national recognition," says Tara Loucks, ARNP-C, Clinical Director of CHP Colon Screening Program. "We heartily commend our members, because we recognize that our ranking reflects their willingness to access the services that CHP provides. I also congratulate the physicians for encouraging their patients to focus on preventive care."
Screening saves lives! Did you know that colorectal cancer is the second most deadly cancer in the United States? That's why screening is so important-especially given today's extremely effective methods for finding the cancer. Early detection is crucial for a cure. A full screening includes two tests:
- an at-home test called FOBT (fecal occult blood test)
- an examination, in CHP's convenient clinic or a physician's office, of the colon
Who should be tested? At some point, everyone should. Colon screening is recommended for everyone beginning at age 50, and earlier if a family risk exists. Please don't neglect this essential preventive step. After the initial test, your physician will be able to set a schedule for future screenings.
Here's how to take action. It's simple. You may call your primary care physician or call CHP's Colon Screening Program directly at 523-7350. No referral is necessary. We at CHP know that testing for colon cancer is not wildly popular. We know some people avoid it. We also know it just might save their lives. So: get over it, and get tested-as so many others are doing. CHP wants to help you stay healthy.