Remind your patients of the importance of colorectal cancer screening

According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States. Your patients may be under the assumption that a colonoscopy is the only way to test for colorectal cancer, but there are many screenings available to choose from. Talk to your patients about the importance of early detection and the types of tests available, including those that are noninvasive.

It’s important for providers to document the type of screening performed or any exclusions in the patient’s medical record. Exclusions for this measure have changed to include advanced illness and frailty of the patient.

Providers should ensure they order the most appropriate colorectal screen indicated based on the patient’s status.

View the Colorectal Cancer Screening tip sheet to learn more about the measure, information to include in a patient’s record, CPT codes that should be included in claims, and tips for talking with patients.