Fall 2009

BCBSF continues to promote colorectal cancer screening test

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida, Inc. (BCBSF) continues to educate and remind targeted member populations annually about the importance of colorectal cancer screening. Thank you for taking the time to discuss this very important screening with your patients. Most patients will not get tested unless advised by their physician to do so. The Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set^® (HEDIS) screening rate for BCBSF BlueMedicare HMO has reached a new high of nearly 70% and BlueCare of 58%.

Screening tests are accurate and relatively simple and the survival rate is higher when the cancer is identified early. Please continue to discuss this screening with your patients -- with your help more lives can be saved.

For more information, visit the following websites:

http://www.cms.hhs.gov/ColorectalCancerScreening/

http://www.medicare.gov/health/coloncancer.asp

For more information on BCBSF Medical Policies for colorectal cancer screening, refer to the Medical Policies (Medical Coverage Guidelines) on our website at www.bcbsfl.com. Medical Policies are available under the heading of Medical Information on the Physicians & Providers page.