Expansion of Medicare Coverage Impacts Colorectal Screening
More Medicare beneficiaries may be doing it, but they are less likely to be Black or Hispanic. New research indicates that even though Medicare coverage for colorectal screenings has expanded, the number of Medicare beneficiaries who utilize the service has not.
“Colorectal cancer screenings increased when Medicare expanded the coverage to average-risk Medicare beneficiaries,” notes Alan Weinstock, an insurance broker at MedicareSupplementPlans.com. “Unfortunately, disparities continue among certain ethnic groups.”
What the Researchers Found
Researchers found Hispanics were less likely to receive screenings after colonoscopy coverage was expanded, and African Americans were less likely than whites to get screened prior to, during and after coverage, according to the study.
The differences in screening rates might be due to differences in socioeconomic status, health beliefs and health education as well as healthcare access. The researchers felt that these differences shouldn’t exist now that Medicare beneficiaries are covered, and finding and addressing the barriers which are causing the disparities in screening rates among the Medicare population is of utmost importance.
“Too many older Americans who are at risk of developing colorectal cancer are not taking advantage of the Medicare coverage to get the screening services they need,” notes Weinstock.
Colorectal cancer is the third most frequently diagnosed non-skin cancer in men and women in the United States. The risk of developing colorectal cancer is slightly higher in men than in women and many Americans die from the disease each year. Regular colorectal cancer screening or testing is recommended as the most important way to prevent the disease. However, despite recommendations, prevention and early detection, screening rates remain low.
Steps You Can Take to Prevent Colorectal Cancer
Wondering about the benefit of regular colorectal screening? Regular screening means that colorectal cancer can be detected early, when it is small and easier to cure. Polyps, or growths, can be found and removed before they have the chance to turn into cancer.
But just as important is how you take care of yourself. It is important to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole-grain foods and to limit your intake of high-fat foods. Getting enough exercise is also important. At least 30 minutes of physical activity five or more days a week. Forty-five to 60 minutes of exercise five or more days a week is even better.
In addition, avoid too much alcohol and watch your weight. Being overweight or obese raises the risk of colon cancer in both men and women, but the link seems to be stronger in men. Try to stay at a healthy weight throughout life by balancing what you eat with physical activity. If you are overweight, ask your doctor about a weight loss plan that will work for you.
The best Medicare Supplemental Insurance is one that provides full security to the people and hence is called Medigap; Medicare supplemental plans should be beneficial for the people.
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