AHN to Offer Saturday Colonoscopy Appointments During Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

Appointments are now being accepted for Saturday screenings during the month of March

PITTSBURGH - The Allegheny Health Network (AHN) Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition will mark national colorectal cancer awareness month by offering appointments for colonoscopy on select Saturdays in March at several AHN locations across Western Pennsylvania. To schedule an appointment, call 412-515-2723. Space is limited.

March 7
7:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Bethel Park Surgery Center
990-1010 Higbee Drive, Entrance C
Bethel Park, PA 15102

7:30 a.m. - noon
Monroeville Surgery Center
4121 Monroeville Blvd
Monroeville, PA 14146

7:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Westmoreland Endoscopy Center

118 Nature Park Road, Suite 200

Greensburg, PA 15601

March 21
7:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Wexford Surgery Center
12311 Perry Highway
Wexford, PA 15090

Colorectal cancer continues to be a significant health concern in the U.S., ranking as the third most common cancer for both men and women, according to data from the American College of Gastroenterology, though this prevalent disease is also notably one of the most preventable types of cancer. Gastroenterologists emphasize that through regular screening, polyps can be safely identified and removed from the colon, a critical step before they potentially become cancerous and progress to later-stage colorectal cancer.

Starting at age 45, AHN gastroenterologists recommend a colonoscopy once every 10 years for average-risk individuals. Alternatively, an at-home, stool-based test known as a 'FIT test' may be used on an annual basis, however a positive FIT test requires a follow-up colonoscopy.

This is the ninth year AHN will be offering Saturday colonoscopy screenings in March, offering a more convenient option for individuals who may find it challenging to schedule this important procedure during the work week.

While most health insurance plans cover the cost of colonoscopy, patients should consult with their insurance provider for specific coverage information. Patients will receive preparation instructions for the outpatient procedure upon scheduling.

Colonoscopies are performed at 23 locations across AHN's footprint. To schedule a screening on a weekday during regular hours, call (412) DOCTORS.

To learn more, visit https://www.ahn.org/lp/colorectal-cancer-awareness.

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