Why Conversations with Your Physician Matter.
March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, a time to highlight the importance of prevention, early detection, and understanding your screening options. Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers when detected early, but knowing which screening method is best for you is crucial. Open conversations with your doctor can help ensure you’re making informed decisions about your health.
The Importance of Understanding Your Options
When it comes to colorectal cancer, there are several screening methods available. It’s important to understand each one to make the best decision for your health.
- Colonoscopies: The gold standard for colorectal cancer screening, allowing doctors to examine the entire colon and remove precancerous growths.
- Stool Tests: Non-invasive tests that check for signs of cancer or precancerous growths in your stool. These include Cologuard every 3 years and FIT testing annually.
- Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: A partial colon exam that allows doctors to examine the lower part of the colon.
Depending on your age, family history, and risk factors, your physician can help you get a better understanding of these screening methods, including their pros and cons.
Why Conversations with Your Physician Matter
The key to selecting the right screening option and treatment plan is an open, ongoing conversation with your healthcare provider. Colorectal cancer is complex, and there is no “one-size-fits-all” approach. Taking into account your unique medical history and risk factors helps.
However, in traditional healthcare systems, patient-physician interactions are often brief, making it difficult to have these important discussions. That’s where Direct Primary Care (DPC) stands out. DPC provides a more personalized, patient-centered approach to care, allowing for longer, more meaningful conversations.
Why Direct Primary Care Makes a Difference
In a Direct Primary Care model, physicians spend more time with each patient, which means more opportunity to discuss screening options in detail. DPC fosters a strong relationship between doctor and patient, ensuring that your physician understands your health needs fully and can guide you through complex decisions.
- More Time with Your Doctor: DPC gives you the time to discuss all available options, ask questions, and make informed decisions.
- Personalized Care: Your physician can tailor a screening plan based on your individual health history and risk factors.
- Ongoing Support: With DPC, you have continuous access to your doctor, making it easier to stay on top of screenings and follow-up care.
This March, take the time to talk to your physician about colorectal cancer screenings. Understanding your options and having a strong, ongoing relationship with your healthcare provider will give you the confidence to make the best choices for your health.
