March is National Colon Cancer Awareness month, and physicians are urging the community not to delay getting screenings. Conveniently located, Bristol Hospital’s Center for Surgery and Endoscopy offers a time and cost saving alternative for patients who are interested in having a screening colonoscopy without the added burden of missing time from work through their Open Access Program.
According to The American Cancer Society, colon cancer screenings should begin at age 50, and colonoscopies or fecal immunochemical testing (FIT) every year are the preferred tests and should be performed every ten years afterwards. Furthermore, emerging data demonstrates that African-American patients should be screened earlier than age 50 due to increase in CRC rates.
The Open Access Colonoscopy program at Bristol Hospital allows patients the opportunity to schedule their screening colonoscopy directly with the center, reducing office visits and added co-pays. When a person qualifies for the program by meeting simple pre-screening requirements, the appointment will be scheduled immediately. If a person does not qualify, he or she will be directed to contact their Primary Care provider to ensure their health needs are addressed prior to scheduling the appointment.
According to the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare, Bristol Hospital ranks number one (the best) in the state of Connecticut of all acute care hospitals for hospital acquired conditions (otherwise known as HAC’s) and Bristol Hospital’s Center for Endoscopy is the only center in Hartford County- one of only five centers in Connecticut to be recognized nationally by the Association of Gastroenterologists (ASGE) for demonstrating specialized training and adherence to ASGE guidelines on quality and infection prevention guidelines outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
With over 100 combined years of experience, the Bristol Hospital’s Endoscopy department and compassionate care of its staff ensure patients receive five-star care. The Endoscopy services at Bristol Hospital are offered in our state-of-the-art center. Patients experience the continuity of care and comfort associated with the efficient registration process, modern procedure rooms and a recovery area in oneself-contained environment.
Bristol Hospital has a goal of saving lives by providing heightened awareness, education and access to screening. If you are over the age of 50 or due for a routine screening, contact the Bristol Hospital Center for Endoscopy today at 860 585-3302. Those who may be underinsured or lack of insurance may also qualify for financial assistance from the Bristol Hospital Colon Project.
Patricia Coppola, MSN, RN, CNOR, is the director of Perioperative Services at Bristol Hospital. For more information about Open Access colonoscopy, please call 860-585-3302 or visit www.bristolhospital.org