Outpatient medical transportation is a critical aspect of modern healthcare, ensuring that patients can easily access necessary medical procedures and treatments. One area where outpatient care has made a significant impact is in the prevention and early detection of colorectal cancer. According to recent data, AMSURG, a division of Envision Healthcare and a national leader in outpatient care, performed more than 1 million colonoscopies in 2022, helping people prevent, detect and overcome colorectal cancer.
Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the U.S., with an estimated 52,550 people expected to die from the disease in 2023 alone. However, the disease is also one of the most preventable cancers, with timely screenings playing a significant role in improving an individual’s chance of beating colorectal cancer. A colonoscopy is currently the most accurate and effective screening method for this disease. During the procedure, a physician can examine the entire length of the colon, remove a polyp before it becomes cancerous, and detect and sometimes remove cancerous polyps, giving people a greater opportunity to survive.
“Our care teams have made a meaningful impact in countless patients’ lives, helping them prevent colorectal cancer, detect it and continue ongoing surveillance,” said John Popp, MD, Medical Director for AMSURG. “Still, so much work remains to educate people about gastrointestinal health and the importance of not delaying care. Even as people are making up for colonoscopies missed during the early years of the COVID-19 pandemic, we know more people are being diagnosed younger, and that many aren’t receiving their first screening at the recommended age of 45.”
AMSURG’s efforts to prevent and detect colorectal cancer through colonoscopies are particularly important, given that recent research has shown an increase in early-onset colorectal cancer. This increase has led to recommendations by the American Cancer Society and U.S. Preventative Services Task Force for individuals at average risk to begin screening at 45 instead of 50. Despite these recommendations, AMSURG data shows that the average age of patients seen in its ambulatory surgery centers receiving their first screening is 57 – more than a decade late.
While AMSURG’s efforts to prevent and detect colorectal cancer through colonoscopies are critical, transportation to and from these procedures is often a significant hurdle for patients. Many individuals may have mobility issues or live in areas without reliable transportation options, making it difficult to attend necessary medical appointments. That’s where outpatient medical transportation providers like Amera® come in.
Amera® is dedicated to providing safe and reliable transportation services for patients requiring day surgery and outpatient care. Our professional drivers are trained to provide the highest levels of comfort, safety, and support, ensuring that patients can focus on their health and wellbeing during transport. Whether you’re in need of a one-time ride or ongoing transportation services, Amera® is here to help.
As the need for outpatient medical care continues to grow, it’s essential to have reliable transportation services that can help patients access necessary medical treatments and procedures. With the ongoing efforts of providers like AMSURG and transportation agency like Amera®, we can help prevent colorectal cancer and save lives. If you or a loved one is in need of transportation services for outpatient care or day surgery, please don’t hesitate to contact Amera® today.
