Closing Gaps in Care for Colon Cancer: How FIT Testing Can Help

Gaps in care are a significant issue in healthcare, especially when it comes to preventing and detecting serious conditions like colorectal cancer. These gaps often occur when patients miss crucial screenings or follow-ups, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment. For health plans, closing care gaps is not only essential for improving patient outcomes but also for enhancing HEDIS (Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set) scores. One effective way to address gaps in care for colorectal cancer is through the use of FIT (fecal immunochemical test) testing. Read below to learn a bit more about FIT testing and how at-home health testing programs can aid with closing health gaps. 

What Are Gaps in Care?

Gaps in care refer to the disparity between the care that patients should receive and the care they actually receive. In the context of colorectal cancer, these gaps can arise when individuals eligible for screening do not undergo recommended tests, such as a colonoscopy or FIT testing. These gaps may be due to various factors, including lack of awareness, accessibility concerns, or patient reluctance. Closing care gaps is crucial because early detection of colorectal cancer can significantly improve survival rates.

What Is FIT Testing?

FIT testing, a type of fecal occult blood tes, is a non-invasive screening method for colorectal cancer. Unlike a colonoscopy, which requires bowel preparation and sedation, FIT testing is simple and can be done at home. The test detects hidden blood in the stool, which can be an early sign of colorectal cancer or large polyps. If blood is detected, further diagnostic procedures, such as a colonoscopy, are recommended to identify the source of the bleeding.

How FIT Testing Closes Care Gaps

FIT testing offers several advantages that help close care gaps in colorectal cancer screening:

1. Accessibility and Convenience: FIT testing is easy to administer, does not require a visit to a healthcare facility, and can be completed in the comfort of one’s home. Patients can collect their samples at home and return them via mail, making the process seamless and encouraging higher patient engagement.
2. Increased Completion Rates: The convenience of at-home health testing significantly increases the likelihood that patients will complete their FIT tests. By removing barriers to healthcare such as the need to travel to a lab, Ash helps ensure more patients follow through with their colorectal cancer screening, effectively closing care gaps.
3. Cost-Effectiveness: As a cost-effective alternative to colonoscopy, FIT testing is often covered by health plans, making it accessible to a broader population. This affordability is key in reaching underserved communities that might otherwise skip colorectal cancer screening.
4. Timely Intervention: By identifying potential issues early, FIT testing allows for prompt intervention, reducing the likelihood of progression to advanced cancer. This timely detection is critical in closing care gaps, as it ensures that patients receive the necessary follow-up care.

FIT Testing and HEDIS Measures for Colorectal Cancer Screening

Health plans are increasingly focused on improving HEDIS measures for colorectal cancer screening, as these scores are closely tied to both patient outcomes and reimbursement rates. The HEDIS measure for colorectal cancer screening assesses the percentage of adults aged 45-75 who have had appropriate screening. FIT testing is a key component in meeting these benchmarks, as it provides a simple and effective way to increase screening rates. By activating FIT testing at-home, health plans can provide more patients access to this important health measure. 

Conclusion: The Role of FIT Testing in Closing Care Gaps

Closing care gaps in colorectal cancer is a critical objective for health plans aiming to improve patient outcomes and HEDIS scores. FIT testing offers a practical solution by providing an accessible, non-invasive, and cost-effective screening method. With Ash Wellness offering at-home FIT testing, the process becomes even more convenient, increasing patient participation and helping to close care gaps effectively. By increasing the adoption of FIT testing, health plans can make significant strides in improving colorectal cancer screening rates, ultimately leading to better patient care and outcomes.

For more information on how Ash can support your healthcare initiatives, you can contact us here.