Colon Cancer Screening Public Service Announcement
Our office has received inquiries regarding a public service announcement that aired last year in the Durango area. This announcement, provided in collaboration with the Colorado Colorectal Screening Program and the American Cancer Society, stated:
This is Dr. Pat Gerstenberger with Digestive Health Associates and the Southwest Endoscopy Center.
Colorectal cancer is the 2nd leading cancer killer in men and women aged 50 and older. It often starts with no symptoms, but can be prevented by a test that finds and removes abnormal growths, called polyps, before they become cancer.
Many insurance plans, including Medicare, cover colorectal testing. If you are uninsured, you may be eligible for free testing.
If you are 50 or older, please talk to your health care provider.
For more information please call the American Cancer Society.
Digestive Health Associates and the Southwest Endoscopy Center are participating screening providers for the Colorado Colorectal Screening Program, which is administered by the University of Colorado Cancer Center and provides financial assistance for colon cancer screening to eligible Colorado residents.
Durango residents interested in arranging screening under this program should contact Durango's Health Services Clinic at 970.764.1790. Other regional partnering referring clinics include:
•Dove Creek Community Health Center, Dove Creek •Valley-Wide Health Systems, Mancos •Telluride Medical Center
Eligibility Criteria -Age 50 or older (at average risk) or under 50 at increased risk for colorectal cancer (those having a personal or family history of cancer or polyps) -Uninsured, or have insurance that does not cover ANY cost for endoscopic colorectal screening OR -Household income below 250% of the federal poverty level -Lawfully present in Colorado -Patient in a partnering clinic -Eligible for a colorectal screening according to American Cancer Society clinical guidelines
Board Certified Specialists in Gastroenterology Recognized by the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy for promoting quality in endoscopy | AAAHC-accredited Endoscopy Center
The material provided on this website is for general informational purposes only. If you need specific medical advice, please contact our office for an appointment.
