May 17, 2019
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says one-third of adults age 50 or older have not been screened for colorectal cancer as recommended.1 Together, we can help our members at the greatest risk of developing colorectal cancer get the screening they need by making it easier and more convenient.
Some of your patients in the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX) Blue Advantage HMOSM and Blue Advantage PlusSM HMO networks who are 51 to 75 years old with no claim history of having a colorectal screening, may receive a Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) Kit. The FIT Kit allows our members to complete the test in the comfort and privacy of their homes at no additional charge.
We let our members know they will receive the test and that taking the test is voluntary. Members who complete the test at their home will send their completed test kits to Home Access Health Corporation, an independent company specializing in in-home diagnostic testing. Home Access Health Corporation will process the tests and send results to the member and their Primary Care Provider. Members have until Nov. 15, 2019, to complete and submit their test for processing.
How You Can Help:
- Discuss the importance of colorectal cancer screening and healthy lifestyle choices that promote wellness with your patients.
- If your patients receive a FIT Kit and call your office with questions, please encourage them to participate and complete the screening as soon as possible.
- You may receive a test result from Home Access Health Corporation. Please include it in your patient’s medical record and discuss the results with your patient.
If you have any questions, please contact your BCBSTX Network Management Representative.
1CDC, Screen for Life: National Colorectal Cancer Action Campaign, Oct. 29, 2018, https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/colorectal/sfl/index.htm.