West Valley Medical Center has launched a unique and time-saving opportunity for patients looking to schedule an important screening. The hospital’s new direct screening colonoscopy program provides community members the opportunity to schedule the screening directly with a provider online without having to schedule an office visit first.
“Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death for men and women combined in our country, so we want to make it as easy as possible to get people in to be screened. Eliminating any barriers is our goal,” said Dr. Richard Augustus, chief medical officer.
The American Cancer Society now recommends people at average risk for colorectal cancer begin screening at 45.
“Our direct screening colonoscopy program is a no-hassle, patient-centered approach to colorectal cancer screening,” said Betsy Hunsicker, Chief Executive Officer, West Valley Medical Center. “For most patients, there is no need to visit your physician before your screening colonoscopy and many insurances will cover this preventative service.”
“We’ve worked together as a team to be able to offer this service to our community because we feel it’s important to make it as easy as possible for our patients to have access to the screenings they need to stay on top of their health,” said Jodi Augustus, director of Surgical Services, West Valley Medical Center.
A colonoscopy is a simple, diagnostic test that looks for polyps and cancer of the colon. Colonoscopies take about 30 minutes, during which time you will be comfortably sedated. In fact, most patients report a positive experience and are able to return to normal activities and diet the next day.
Community members can learn if they are a candidate for the program or call (208) 455-3849.
