Dedicated GI Physician Paves the Way for Expanded Colorectal Screening Coverage in South Carolina

ACG Governor March Seabrook, MD, FACG, played an instrumental role in expanding colorectal cancer screening coverage in South Carolina. As a result of Dr. Seabrook’s efforts, Blue Cross Blue Shield of SC expanded coverage of preventive colonoscopy screening to more than 75,000 fully insured customers over the age of 50. Previously, this benefit was reserved for members who were considered high risk for developing colorectal cancer.

Dr. Seabrook met several times with the medical directors at BCBS to discuss colorectal cancer screening for average risk patients. During a subsequent visit, Dr. Seabrook also met with BCBS CEO Ed Sellers, state Rep. Gilda Cobb-Hunter and members of the South Carolina Gastroenterology Association, American Cancer Society, and the South Carolina Cancer Alliance in achieving this milestone in colorectal cancer prevention.

Additionally, Dr. Seabrook’s legislative outreach efforts prompted state lawmakers to introduce companion legislation that would mandate health insurance providers in South Carolina to cover colorectal cancer screening services. The bills, introduced by state Senator Dave Thomas and state Rep. Gilda Cobb-Hunter, have yet to be voted on in the SC House and Senate.

While efforts by BCBS and state lawmakers to reduce barriers to colorectal cancer screening is encouraging news, “hopefully through continued research and outreach we will narrow the current disparities that exist and realize the ultimate goal of preventing this disease,” said Dr. Seabrook.