We routinely remind our members and their providers of the critical importance of scheduling preventive services and appropriate screenings to improve health outcomes and close gaps in care. To that end, we’re mailing letters in mid-October to certain Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Commercial members who may be due or soon-to-be due for a colorectal cancer screening, which will outline potential at-home screening options as possible alternatives to a colonoscopy.

We want our provider partners to be aware of this educational initiative, as the letters will instruct patients to speak with their primary care provider about the options available to them and whether an at-home test or colonoscopy is right for their individual needs. 

As you know, depending on their age, health history, and risk factors, a colonoscopy may be required for some individuals, while an at-home screening test such as one of the following may be an option: 

  • FIT (Fecal Immunochemical Test): A simple test that checks for hidden blood in the stool, which can be an early sign of colorectal cancer.
  • Cologuard®: A stool DNA test that checks for both abnormal DNA markers and hidden blood that may indicate colorectal cancer or certain precancerous conditions.

The letters being mailed to members will inform them of the potential benefits of an at-home screening, but also remind them that not everyone is a candidate. 

If one or more of your patients are included in the mailing, you may also receive a letter to ensure you are prepared in the event a patient consequently asks you about their screening options. The clinical expertise and judgment of the providers in our network is invaluable; we appreciate all that you do to help our members maintain optimal health and well-being.