ACR, National Medical Association show support of virtual colonoscopy bill

The National Medical Association is joining the American College of Radiology (ACR) and other advocacy groups in a call to Congress to pass the CT Colonography Screening for Colorectal Cancer Act (HR 4632).

The bill, introduced in the House by U.S. Representatives Brad Wenstrup (R-Ohio) and Danny Davis (D-Ill.), would provide seniors who decide to be screened via virtual colonoscopy with Medicare coverage.

“Early screening for colorectal cancer saves lives,” Wenstrup said in a prepared statement. “Unfortunately, too many Americans fail to get screened because they feel current procedures are too invasive, or can’t for medical reasons. By covering an additional method of screening, Medicare can give seniors and physicians another tool for preventive and lifesaving care.”

Edith Peterson Mitchell, MD, National Medical Association president, said in the same statement that the bill would be especially impactful for numerous minority populations.

“Medicare coverage of virtual colonoscopy would increase African-American and other minority access to this test that can overcome many cultural stigmas and attract more people to be screened,” Mitchell said. “This would prevent many cancers, find more cancers before they progress and save thousands of people who might otherwise die from a disease that is often preventable.”

The advocacy groups suggested anyone looking for additional information visit RadiologyInfo.org.