William K. Johnjulio, MD Medical Director, Clinically Integrated Network | Allegheny Health Network
William K. Johnjulio, MD Medical Director, Clinically Integrated Network | Allegheny Health Network
The Allegheny Health Network (AHN) Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition is offering Saturday colonoscopy appointments during March, recognized as national colorectal cancer awareness month. The screenings will be available at select AHN locations across Western Pennsylvania.
Appointments can be made by calling 412-515-2723, but space is limited. The specific dates and locations for the Saturday screenings are:
- March 1: Bethel Park Surgery Center from 7:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and McCandless Endoscopy Center from 8:00 a.m. to noon.
- March 8: Westmoreland Endoscopy Center from 7:30 a.m. to noon.
- March 22: Monroeville Surgery Center from 8:00 a.m. to noon.
- March 29: Wexford Surgery Center from 7:30 a.m. to noon.
The American College of Gastroenterology states that colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in both men and women in the U.S., though it is highly preventable with proper screening. Screenings allow gastroenterologists to detect and remove polyps before they become cancerous.
AHN gastroenterologists advise average-risk individuals to have a colonoscopy every ten years starting at age 45. An alternative is an annual stool-based FIT test, but any positive result necessitates a follow-up colonoscopy.
This marks the eighth year AHN has provided Saturday colonoscopies in March, offering convenience for those unable to attend weekday appointments.
Most health insurance plans cover colonoscopies; however, patients should verify coverage details with their provider. Upon scheduling, patients will receive preparation instructions for the procedure.
Colonoscopies are available at 23 AHN locations throughout the region. For weekday appointments during regular hours, call (412) DOCTORS.
For more information, visit https://www.ahn.org/lp/colorectal-cancer-awareness.
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