April 9, 2026

Adults ages 45 to 75 should have preventive screenings to reduce their risk of colorectal cancer, according to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We encourage you to discuss colon health and screening options with our members.

Recommended screening: USPSTF recommends screening with any of the following tests for adults ages 45 to 75:

• Annual guaiac fecal occult blood test

• Annual fecal immunochemical testing

• DNA-FIT (Cologuard^®) every three years

• Flexible sigmoidoscopy every five years

• Flexible sigmoidoscopy every 10 years with annual FIT

• Computed tomography colonography every five years

• Colonoscopy every 10 years

Providers may want to discuss earlier testing with our members who have a family history of colorectal disease or other risk factors.

Closing care gaps: Colorectal Cancer Screening is a Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS^®) measure that tracks appropriate screenings for adults ages 45 to 75. To help close gaps in our members’ care, consider these tips:

• In our members’ medical records, document the date and type of colorectal cancer screening performed or include the pathology report indicating the type and date of screening.

• Encourage members to stay up to date on their screenings as well as all screening options available.

• Reach out to members who cancel screenings and help them reschedule.

Checking eligibility and benefits: Members may be eligible for a no-cost colorectal cancer screening. Check member eligibility and benefits using Availity^® Essentials before every scheduled appointment. Eligibility and benefit quotes include members’ coverage status and other important information, such as applicable copayments, coinsurance and deductibles. You also may call Provider Customer Service at 1-800-230-6138, Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. – 8 p.m. CT.

Learn more: Refer to our Stars Guidebook for more details about Colorectal Cancer Screening and other quality measures. You can access it in the Availity^® Essentials HealthSpring Medicare Advantage payer space in the Resources section, or email your HealthSpring representative to request a copy.

The above material is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for the independent medical judgment of a physician or other health care provider. Physicians and other health care providers are encouraged to use their own medical judgment based upon all available information and the condition of the patient in determining the appropriate course of treatment. The fact that a service or treatment is described in this material is not a guarantee that the service or treatment is a covered benefit and members should refer to their evidence of coverage for more details, including benefits, limitations and exclusions. Regardless of benefits, the final decision about any service or treatment is between the member and their health care provider.

HEDIS is a registered trademark of the National Committee for Quality Assurance.