ASCs are increasingly at the forefront of colorectal cancer prevention efforts, particularly as new screening technologies gain traction.
Following two FDA approvals last year, many ASCs are stepping up to provide faster follow-up care for patients with positive results from stool- and blood-based screening tests.
In 2024, the FDA approved two new tools for colorectal cancer screening: a blood test developed by Palo Alto, Calif.-based Guardant Health, and the Cologuard Plus test from Exact Sciences.
The Guardant Shield test, often referred to as a blood-based FIT test, received approval in July 2024. The test can detect about 83% of colorectal cancers, though only 13% of advanced precancerous polyps, according to clinical studies.
In October 2024, the FDA cleared the Cologuard Plus test, a next-generation, multitarget stool DNA test for patients at average risk of colorectal cancer. The decision was based on findings from the Blue-C study, one of the largest prospective, head-to-head colorectal cancer screening trials to date. The study demonstrated improved accuracy in detecting both cancers and advanced precancerous lesions compared to earlier versions of the test.
With more patients opting for at-home or noninvasive screening, gastroenterologists say ASCs are seeing an uptick in follow-up colonoscopy demand.
“ASCs are working hard to expedite care for positive Cologuard and FIT tests,” Benjamin Levy, MD, gastroenterologist and clinical associate of medicine at the University of Chicago, told Becker’s.
Across the U.S., providers are also taking steps to improve screening access and compliance. In February, Sioux Falls, S.D.-based Sanford Health launched an initiative to mail FIT and Cologuard tests directly to patient’s homes. Last year, Edgewood, Ky.-based St. Elizabeth Physicians added additional drop-off locations for patients prescribed the Cologuard test.
As these programs grow, ASCs remain a critical part of the colorectal cancer screening continuum.
