Colorectal cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among both men and women in the United States, but it’s also one of the most preventable with timely screening. When found early, treatment is often more effective, and survival rates are significantly higher.¹
Now is a great opportunity for providers to identify patients who are due for screening and to ensure timely follow-up and proper documentation.
The Colorectal Cancer Screening (COL-E) measure evaluates the percentage of adults aged 45-75 who received appropriate colorectal cancer screening using validated tests within the recommended timeframe, as displayed below.
Members meet the COL-E measure if they have evidence of any one of the following screenings:
| Test Type | Occurrence |
| Colonoscopy | 10 Years |
| Flexible sigmoidoscopy | 5 Year |
| CT colonography | 5 Years |
| Stool DNA (sDNA) with Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) | 3 Years |
| Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) | Annually |
Appropriate Billing Codes for this measure can be found Quality Care Incentive Porgram Website.
To support quality performance and improve patient outcomes, CenCal Health encourages providers to:
- Proactively identify members ages 45-75 who are overdue for colorectal cancer screening, particularly prior to scheduled visits.
- Assess individual risk factors, including family history, prior abnormal results, and comorbidities, to determine the most appropriate screening method.
- Educate patients on the differences between stool-based tests and procedures that visualize the colon, including preparation, frequency, and follow-up requirements.
- Close the loop on abnormal results, ensuring timely diagnostic follow-up and referrals when indicated.
- Accurately document and code colorectal cancer screenings, including the screening type, date of service, and results, to ensure the care provided is reflected in quality reporting.
- Leverage practice workflows, such as pre-visit planning, standing orders, or patient reminders, to increase screening rates.
Additional recommendations published by the United States Preventive Services Taskforce (USPSTF) can be found on the US Preventive Services Task Force Website.
Health Education Resources
Wellness and Prevention flyers are sent to members overdue for specific screenings and services are also available on the CenCal Health website in both English and Spanish on Patient Education Materials Webpage.
Please contact the Population Health team for questions and additional support at populationhealth@cencalhealth.org. For health education and promotion questions, please email healtheducation@cencalhealth.org.