Patient advocates, medical associations urge Congress to pass virtual colonoscopy bill
Medical associations and patient advocacy groups are pushing Congress to pass the CT Colonography Screening for Colorectal Cancer Act.
The bipartisan bill (HR 1969), was introduced into the U.S. House of Representatives Tuesday, April 2, by Reps. Danny Davis (D-IL) and Brad Wenstrup (R-OH) and would provide Medicare coverage for CT Colonography screening, also called virtual colonoscopy, according to an American College of Radiology (ACR) release.
“Timely screening for colorectal cancer can literally save lives, but many patients cannot or will not have a colonoscopy. For them, CT colonography provides a less invasive option that they are more likely to choose. Medicare should cover this screening option,” said Michael Sapienza, president and CEO of the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, in the release.
Those pushing for HR 1969 believe the bill could have a particularly positive impact on Latino Americans and African Americans. Both groups are more likely to discover their cancers at later stages than whites and are less likely to be screened for colorectal cancer. However, virtual colonoscopy’s use is growing among both Latino and African Americans.
“Latinos are less likely to get tested for colorectal cancer due to the fear associated with colonoscopy screenings, among other factors. Latinos are also more likely to die from the disease,” said Jose Ortiz, president and chief executive officer (CEO) of the Hispanic Health Council. “Virtual colonoscopy is a safe alternative, and will lead more Latino seniors to get screened.”
Matt joined Chicago’s TriMed team in 2018 covering all areas of health imaging after two years reporting on the hospital field. He holds a bachelor’s in English from UIC, and enjoys a good cup of coffee and an interesting documentary.