May 26, 2016

Cost-effectiveness of free colonoscopy for high-risk uninsured

By: Judy Mathias
Share

Editor's Note

Performing free colonoscopies for uninsured patients at high risk for colorectal cancer can identify cancers at an earlier stage and is cost neutral for a health system, this study finds.

Of 682 uninsured patients screened, 9 cancers ( 1 stage 0, 3 stage I, 2 stage II, and 3 stage III) were identified, for an incidence of 1.3%.

Comparing the 1.3% incidence with a control group of uninsured patients, researchers found the study group included more early stage cancers, and subsequently had a lower estimated per patient initial cost ($43,125 vs $43,736).

Since this study began in 2013, at the University of Louisville School of Medicine, the researchers have been able to expand the free screenings to all hospitals in Louisville, Kentucky.

 

Read More >>

Join our community

Learn More
Video Spotlight
Live chat by BoldChat