CDC and the American Gastroenterological Association have joined together to provide free colonoscopies to uninsured patients in seven states in March, according to a news release.
More than 50 AGA gastroenterologists are partnering with CDC's Colorectal Cancer Control Programs to conduct free colonoscopies during the last weekend in March, which in Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. The gastroenterologists are performing the procedures in the following states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Nevada.
Health departments in these states are coordinating with local primary care providers to identify eligible patients, conduct health assessments and schedule the colonoscopies. AGA members and their support staff are providing the free services for the event.
"This event has been a wonderful opportunity for collaboration between CDC's Colorectal Cancer Control Program and the AGA to promote colorectal cancer screening awareness in several regions of the country, and offer screening services to those who may not otherwise have access," said Marcus Plescia, MD, director, CDC, division of cancer prevention and control, in the release.
Related Articles on Colonoscopy:
Gastroenterologist Dr. Houssam Al Kharrat Shares 7 Things to Know About Colonoscopies
Dr. David Johnson Evaluates ACP's New Guidance for Colorectal Cancer Screening
ASCA Endorses Colorectal Cancer Screening Legislation