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Posts Tagged ‘CT’

Even when the Medicare and Medicaid Services denies CT colonoscopy (CTC) coverage for senior citizens, President Obama himself underwent this screening test for colon cancer screening as part of his first physical exam as commander-in-chief.

CT colonoscopy (CTC), also called virtual colonoscopy, is a non-invasive test that is widely accepted by radiologists and gastro-enterologists as a patient friendly and quite effective screening test for large bowel cancer. Inspite of recommendations from organizations like American College of Radiology, and various studies supporting it,  the medicare has refused to cover the test.

Now the news that Obama has recieved virtual colonoscopy test has spiced up  the controversy again. The American College of Radiology (ACR) stated in their press release that the administration has to ensure that seniors have the same access as the President to this less invasive, cutting-edge care.

“……The President and his doctors have unparalleled access to the latest medical and scientific information. The fact that he opted for CTC should put to rest any empty arguments against the viability of CT colonography. It’s time for all patients who want a CT colonography to be covered for this lifesaving exam. Medicare needs to provide coverage now,”said James H. Thrall, MD, chair of the ACR Board of Chancellors.

Contrary to the opinion of ACR, American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) wrote to the President that “while a ‘virtual’ exam is better than no exam, for most people, colorectal screening by colonoscopy is the preferred strategy.”

ACG president Dr. Philip O. Katz, wrote that, “Our 11,000 physician members are concerned that you missed an important opportunity to set an example of the power of prevention by taking the test proven to prevent colorectal cancer by polyp detection and removal.”