Evidence-Based Colorectal Cancer Screening
 
Having become familiar with colorectal cancer screening issues over the past year, the need for evidence-based guidelines and sound reimbursement policies, in my opinion, are more important than ever. It has been surprising to me how some screening and reimbursement policies are driven by ad hoc data or economic interests that don’t always focus on the patient’s best interests. Colorectal cancer still is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. Health plans and other payers need to promote a multi-tiered approach to preventing colorectal cancer. With emerging screening and care options, it is important to establish evidence-based protocols to establish the appropriateness of any particular intervention. Having read several peer-reviewed journal articles recently on sedation options for patients who are getting screened, I have been taken aback by some stakeholder groups that do not always appear to put patient-safety concerns first.  By working together and for the common good, we can literally save thousands of patients’ lives as new screening and treatment options are made available.  However, in the same vein, we need to be careful not to jump on the latest fad. Establishing evidence-based approaches are an important first step. Supporting appropriate, timely and consistent reimbursement policies is also essential – along with keeping patients’ educated on their ever-changing screening and treatment options. Please contact Preventing Colorectal Cancer.Org to see how you can get involved in promoting a fair public policy debate that creates sound coverage policies. 
 
Garry Carneal, JD, MA
PCC Board Member