Schedule Mammogram, Eye Exam, Other Preventative Cancer Screenings in October

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It’s also a good reminder to schedule preventative screenings – not only for breast cancer but also for overall wellness – including eye health.

Annual Mammograms Save Lives

About one in eight women (12.4 percent) will develop invasive breast cancer in her lifetime. Second only to lung cancer, breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer death among women.

Screening mammograms (x-rays of the breast) help detect breast cancer in the early stages when the disease is most treatable. Women may choose to begin annual breast screening as early as age 40, but the American Cancer Society recommends that all women begin yearly breast cancer screening at age 45. Since 1990, mammograms have helped reduce breast cancer deaths by 40 percent.

Annual Comprehensive Eye Exams Protect Vision

Just as mammograms can help detect early breast cancer when it is most treatable, comprehensive eye exams can detect eye disease early to prevent vision loss. Over three percent of Americans over the age of 40 are legally blind or visually impaired.

Glaucoma and macular degeneration are two degenerative eye diseases that can develop gradually over an extended period. Often, symptoms do not appear until later stages when vision damage is irreversible.

Comprehensive eye exams also screen for cataracts, one of the most common vision problems in the United States. Cataract-related vision loss is reversible through cataract surgery, a safe, outpatient procedure that takes less than 20 minutes per eye. 

Early detection and timely intervention and treatment can help prevent disease and preserve your vision. So this month, take the time to schedule all of your preventative screenings. Call your ophthalmologist and schedule a comprehensive eye exam to screen for eye disease.

Schedule Your GI Procedure Before Year-End for Savings

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Elective GI procedures could be much more affordable if you schedule them at the end of the year after you have met your deductible. Your annual healthcare deductible is the amount you must pay out-of-pocket each year for covered medical procedures before your insurance will begin paying. Most deductibles reset on January 1 each year, so this is the time to evaluate whether you should schedule that GI procedure or wait until next year.

You may think you do not have time to call your insurance company about your deductible, but a few minutes of research could save you thousands of dollars, particularly if you have a high-deductible health plan (HDHP) or a Flexible Spending Account (FSA).

Here are four scenarios you may be facing as you approach the end of the year:

You have already met your deductible, or you are close to meeting it.

You should consider scheduling that upper endoscopy or other diagnostic test as soon as possible. If you have already met your deductible, you will pay less now than if you wait until next year. If you are approaching your deductible, call your insurance company to ask for an estimate of costs so you can prioritize things like outpatient surgery, diagnostic testing, lab work and prescription refills.

 You will not meet your deductible.

If you are not close to meeting your deductible, you may choose to delay procedures and appointments so your expenses can count toward next year’s deductible.

However, there is no reason to delay preventative screenings like colonoscopies. Under the Affordable Care Act, screening colonoscopies (and related anesthesia and sedation) are covered at 100 percent for private insurance and Medicare.

You have a surplus in your Flexible Spending Account (FSA).

If you have an FSA through your employment, check your balance regularly and use all funds before the end of the year. FSA money does not roll into next year, and you will lose all unused funds. You may opt to schedule a GERD treatment like an esophageal dilation. Click here to get a comprehensive list of qualified medical expenses for which you can use your FSA dollars.

You have additional funds in your Health Savings Account (HSA).

HSA funds can be rolled over into next year, so you do not need to rush to use that money right away. You may want to accumulate money in your HSA for a more expensive elective digestive procedure in the future.

Call Your GI Doctor

Understanding your health plan is the first step in making it work for you. Call your insurance provider, and then contact your GI doctor to schedule your elective digestive procedure. Quality healthcare can be more affordable when you pay attention to your deductible. 

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Surgery Center of South Bay Recognized as 2018 CASA Award for ASC Excellence Recipient

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The surgery center was one of four ASCs recognized by the board for exemplifying “best practices in the surgery center industry.”

CASA evaluated the commitment and involvement of surgery centers across the state in five different pillars: membership, advocacy, quality metrics, education and community involvement. Surgery Center of South Bay is heavily engaged in advocacy and encourages physicians and staff to support the industry through legislative writing. South Bay also acts as a surgery center for the county of Los Angeles and serves as an ASC rep for the county’s Disaster Coalition Advisory Committee.

All four honorees were recognized during the annual CASA business meeting in September. Center Administrator Juliana Adelechanow accepted the award on the center’s behalf.

Schedule Your Eye Procedure Before Your Deductible Resets

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What is an Elective Eye Procedure?

An elective eye procedure is a planned procedure that is not a medical emergency yet may be medically necessary for you to maintain your vision or improve your eyesight. Certain elective eye procedures can be delayed until you have met your annual deductible.

Some examples of elective eye procedures may be:

How to Plan for an End-of-Year Eye Procedure

If you have met your annual deductible, your eye procedure may cost much less than if you wait until January when your deductible resets to zero. Proper planning will ensure that you can budget for the procedure and you avoid unexpected medical fees.

1. Call your insurance provider to confirm whether you have met your deductible and if you have  an out-of-pocket maximum you need to meet.

2. Explain the type of eye procedure you want to schedule.

3. Ask for a list of in-network physicians and facilities so you can maximize your savings.

4. Using factors like geographic location, physician reviews and cost, narrow down your list of physicians and facilities. Keep in mind that an ambulatory surgery center (ASC) is almost always more cost-effective than a hospital.

5. Once you have selected your physician and location, call your insurance provider again to get an estimate of what you should plan to pay for the physician fee, facility fee, medications and post-operative visits.

6. After you have your out-of-pocket estimate, decide how you will pay for your portion of the procedure. If you have private insurance and you have met your deductible, you may only be responsible for a co-pay or coinsurance, if applicable. Remember, you can use your flexible spending account (FSA) if you have remaining funds. FSA money is not taxed, which offers another savings opportunity.

7. Call your ophthalmologist to schedule your procedure. Do not delay because end-of-year appointments book up quickly and your doctor may only perform surgeries on certain days of the week.

Planning can offer significant savings and help you stretch your hard-earned healthcare dollars. Schedule your elective eye procedure before your deductible resets and experience the joy of clear vision. 

Think Ahead and Save Money on Your Health Care

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How to Make the Most of Your Health Care Now

Are you insured? If yes:

Find out if you have met your deductible (and ask about your coinsurance and out-of-pocket maximums too) by contacting your insurance provider.

If you have met your deductible or you’re close, you can save big by scheduling your vital health care appointments and preventive screenings now.

Deductible or coinsurance not met? Or, are you uninsured?

Don’t panic. You can still get high quality, low cost care at an independent ambulatory surgery center (ASC). ASCs, like Central Texas Endoscopy provide expert GI health care at a much lower cost than you might pay at a hospital or hospital-affiliated center.

Are you worried you can’t afford the health care you need?

There is no need to worry. Payment plans are available to ensure your get the health care you need, even when your budget is limited. The friendly staff at the center billing office can review your options.

Plan Ahead to Make the Most of your Health Care Every Year

To make sure you don’t waste precious dollars next year, you need to make the right decisions now.

When open enrollment begins at your workplace, it is time to do your research. Choosing the wrong plan could result in large and unexpected costs in the future.

Before you choose, ask yourself:

How much did I spend on health care last year?

When calculating your health care costs, be sure to include copays, coinsurance, prescriptions, and other out-of-pocket expenses, as well as your premiums. When you are comparing plans for the new year, check to see if your deductibles, coinsurance, and/or copays will increase.

How much am I likely to spend on health care next year?

Are there any health problems, procedures, prescriptions, or screenings that mean you will require extra care over the next year? Are you having a baby? Do you take regular prescription medications? Before choosing a new health care plan (or opting to remain in your existing one), make sure you know exactly what coverage it will provide for these health events, and whether a higher copay or coinsurance will be required.

Will I still be able to see my preferred health care providers?

If you have preferred health care providers, it is important to make certain those doctors and/or facilities are in-network for any plan you are considering. Using out-of-network providers could prove costly, so you need to weigh the value of paying a higher premium to see your preferred providers or choosing new doctors that fall under a new plan with lower premiums.

Will an FSA or HSA be available with my plan?

Flexible spending accounts (FSA) are available with most insurance plans and can provide useful tax savings.

Health savings accounts (HSAs), which provide even more savings and benefits, are available if you choose a high deductible health plan. If your employer doesn’t offer one, you can enroll at certain financial institutions.

Why ASCs are a Great Choice for Your Health Care

Independent ambulatory surgery centers like Central Texas Endoscopy offer:

  • High quality care that fits your budget
  • Fellowship-trained gastroenterologists who meet or exceed practice standards for quality
  • Industry-leading certifications for safety
  • Fees that are a fraction of those charged at a hospital or hospital-affiliated center
  • Cash payment options and payment plans to suit you
  • Accessible parking and convenient curbside drop-off and pick-up

Whether you are considering new health care options for the new year or need care right now to maximize your deductible, the team at Central Texas Endoscopy can answer all your questions and discuss affordable options for managing your GI health care. Contact the center today to learn more or schedule an appointment.

American Cancer Society Lowers Colon Cancer Screening Age to 45

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Latest Research Calls for New Colonoscopy Age Guidelines

Previously, the ACS and other medical organizations recommended colon screenings for average-risk men and women beginning at 50 years of age. The ACS updated their recommendation in May 2018 after examining the most current colon cancer statistics.

Since the 1990s, colon cancer incidence among Americans aged 20 to 54 has gradually risen by between 0.5 and 2 percent per year and rectal cancer incidence has increased by between 2 and 3 percent per year. The ACS asserts if this trend continues, people born in 1990 will double their risk for colon cancer and quadruple their risk of rectal cancer compared to those born in 1950.

Men and women 55 and younger are 58 percent more likely to be diagnosed with advanced-stage colon cancer because they are unaware of the warning signs of colon cancer and may appear to otherwise be in good health.

Why Colon Cancer Screening Matters

Colon cancer is the third-leading cause of cancer death in the United States and is expected to claim the lives of 50,630 Americans this year. Most cases of colon cancer are actually preventable through screening, but one-third of eligible adults are not getting screened.

American Cancer Society’s New Guidance

The new guidance from the American Cancer Society includes the following Colonoscopy Age Recommendations:

  • All adults who are at average risk for colon cancer should begin routine screening at age 45.
  • Those with a family or personal history of colon polyps or colon cancer should begin screening earlier.
  • Average-risk men and women in good health with a life expectancy of more than ten years should continue colon cancer screenings through 75 years of age.
  • Men and women between the ages of 76 and 85 should consult their medical provider about whether to be screened, based on their overall wellness, life expectancy, personal preferences and prior screening habits.
  • Men and women 85 and older should not be screened for colon cancer.

Insurance Coverage

Although the ACS recommends that first-time colon screenings begin at age 45, not all insurance plans offer preventative coverage for patients between the ages of 45 and 59.

Talk to your doctor about your family and personal medical history so you can be screened at the appropriate time. Then, call your insurance provider about coverage specific to your age, medical history and doctor’s recommendations.

Call a Gastroenterologist

As young-onset colon cancer continues to increase, it is important to remember that you are never too young. More adults in their 20s and 30s are being diagnosed than ever before. The ACS encourages you to familiarize yourself with the warning signs of colon cancer so you can act promptly. If symptoms persist for more than a few days, schedule an appointment with a fellowship-trained gastroenterologist.  

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Types of Eye Drops: Learning the Difference

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Varieties of Eye Drops

Over-the-counter (OTC) eye drops treat minor ailments and eye discomfort. You can achieve favorable results with many OTC brands if you read instructions carefully and use the drops as directed. A few advantages of OTC drops are easy accessibility and lower cost.

Irritation caused by chronic conditions may need to be treated with prescription eye drops recommended by an ophthalmologist or optometrist. Some OTC eye drops have a prescription-strength version that contains a higher percentage of active ingredients, but you’ll have to see your eye doctor to request a prescription. 

Drops for Dry Eye

Eye irritation and dryness is common, especially in the fall and winter. Most minor cases of dryness respond well to lubricating drops or artificial tears, but these drops may not alleviate the symptoms. If OTC drops do not soothe the scratchy, irritated, burning sensation from dry eye, call your ophthalmologist. You may be one of 30 million Americans who suffer from chronic dry eye and would benefit from a prescription eye drop.

Drops for Redness

Decongestant drops can help clear away redness by constricting blood vessels in the eye. If redness persists, schedule a check-up with your eye doctor. Overusing decongestant drops can make the redness problem worse.

Drops for Allergies

Allergens like grass, dust, mold, spores and pet dander can cause the body to release histamines that trigger eye irritation, redness and watering. OTC and prescription eye drops that contain antihistamines can block the histamine that initiates the allergic response.

Antibiotic drops

Bacterial infections like pink eye require prescription antibiotic drops to reduce symptoms and bring healing. Antibiotic drops are also prescribed after eye surgery to prevent infection. These drops are not available over the counter.

Rewetting drops

Contact lenses wearers can get relief using OTC rewetting drops to add moisture when contacts feel dry.

Glaucoma drops

One treatment method for glaucoma is prescription eye drops which help maintain safe levels of internal eye pressure. These drops are only available with a prescription and the dosage is carefully monitored by an ophthalmologist.

Make an Appointment with Your Eye Doctor

Eye drops can soothe irritation, treat infection and maintain healthy vision when used as directed. Call a board-certified ophthalmologist to schedule an appointment for a comprehensive eye exam and an evaluation of your eye care regimen. 

Top 10 Procedures Performed at Multispecialty Surgery Centers

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Regardless of what your health is like today, chances are at some point you will need to go to a multispecialty surgery center or another healthcare provider for medical procedure.

If you don’t know a lot about multispecialty surgery centers, it’s wise to know about what they offer before you need their services. There are many benefits to being treated in one of these independent facilities as compared to a hospital, such as:

  • Ability to go home the same day as the surgery—no need for an overnight hospital stay
  • Easy scheduling and access for patients and families
  • Reduced costs—patients may much less than they would for the same procedure in a hospital
  • Reduced risk of infections as compared to hospitals

Here are some of the most common outpatient procedures performed at multispecialty surgery centers:

1. Carpal Tunnel Surgery: Carpal tunnel release is a type of surgery used to treat to carpal tunnel syndrome. During the procedure a ligament is cut to take pressure off the nerve causing the pain.

2. Cataract Surgery: If a person experiences vision loss due to the lens of their eye becoming cloudy, cataract surgery may be recommended. During cataract surgery, an eye doctor removes the damaged lens and replaces it with an artificial one.

3. Colonoscopy: During a colonoscopy a flexible device with a camera is inserted into the rectum, and the doctor uses it to find growths called polyps. Sometimes, they can be removed at the same time that they are detected.

4. Cystoscopy: If someone is having bladder issues, a doctor may use a cystoscope, which is a thin tube with a camera and light on the end. This device is inserted into the urethra, then water is administered through it. This stretches the bladder, so the doctor can better see the area.

5. Hysteroscopy: If a woman is having unusual vaginal bleeding, has had several miscarriages or has another gynecologic problem, a gynecologist may schedule a hysteroscopy. This procedure uses a hysteroscope which is a thin, lighted device that is inserted through the vagina and into the cervix so the doctor can view the uterus.

6. Incision Procedures on the Middle Ear: Sometimes a doctor can relieve a patient’s ear pain by making a tiny incision in the eardrum. This procedure, called a myringotomy, relieves pressure caused by fluid build-up.

7. Knee Arthroscopy: If a patient has a knee problem like an ACL tear or cartilage problems, the doctor may use knee arthroscopy to treat it. An arthroscope is a surgical tool with a tiny camera. The doctor makes tiny incisions and inserts this device and surgical tools in the damaged area to further diagnose it or treat it.

8. Paravertebral Facet Joint Block and Facet Joint Denervation: If spinal facet joints are injured or become arthritic, facet joint denervation may be used. It is a procedure where a heated needle is inserted to damage the nerve, which also kills the pain. A steroid also be injected into the area, too, which can block the pain.

9. Shoulder Arthroscopy: Sometimes shoulder arthroscopy will be used to treat the shoulder issue such as a rotator cuff tear. This procedure uses a surgical tool with a tiny camera called an arthroscope. The arthroscope can be inserted into an incision in the shoulder, allowing a doctor to view and treat the area.

10. Upper GI Endoscopy: If a person has a problematic stomach ache, vomiting or heartburn a doctor may recommend an upper GI endoscopy. This is a procedure that uses a device called an endoscope, which is a flexible thin tube with a camera. The doctor can use it to view the inside of the food pipe (esophagus), the stomach and the first part of the small intestine.

Colon Cancer Rates On Rise in Low, Middle-Income Countries

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Colon cancer used to be thought of as a Western disease that affected only the affluent, and colon cancer was no exception. According to the World Cancer Research Fund, two-thirds of colon cancer cases occur in countries associated with high income.

Colon Cancer Risk Factors

Life Expectancy

One reason why colon cancer rates are higher among wealthier nations is that life expectancy is higher in developed countries. Colon cancer is usually associated with advanced age, and most new cases of colon cancer occur in men and women over the age of 50.

The Western Diet

The Western diet also contributes to colon cancer risk. A 2018 study found that a pro-inflammatory diet centered on red meat, refined grains, saturated fats, sugary drinks and processed foods significantly increases colon cancer risk. Replacing fiber-rich fruits and vegetables with foods that are high in fat causes inflammation in the colon, a precursor to cancer.

Obesity Rates

As developed nations grow increasingly sedentary, obesity rates are steadily climbing. One out of every three American adults is obese, making our society more prone to diabetes, heart disease and cancer.  Excess weight, especially in the mid-section, increases risk for colon cancer.

Colon Cancer Worldwide

New studies show cancer mortality is a global problem, especially lung, breast and colon cancers. Advancements in colon cancer education, screening and therapies in Western nations have helped to reduce colon cancer incidence, but developing countries are experiencing a surge in new cases.

Lindsey Torre, an epidemiologist at the American Cancer Society, believes lifestyle factors are largely responsible for increases in cancer incidence among low and middle-income nations. For example, smoking is now more common among poorer countries. We are now seeing developing countries adopting unhealthy habits from wealthier nations like eating a Western diet, being sedentary and having a higher body mass index.

Cancer can no longer be considered a Western disease. Colon cancer affects every population group and age level, so it is essential to know the warning signs of colon cancer. If you experience symptoms like abdominal pain, cramping, bathroom habit changes, rectal bleeding or excess fatigue, call a gastroenterologist.

The American Cancer Society suggests that all adults who are at average risk for colon cancer begin screening at age 45. Talk to your GI doctor about your individual risk so you can get screened at the appropriate time.  

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Retinal Detachments Require Immediate Treatment

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What is a Retinal Detachment?

The retina is a thin layer of light-sensitive cells at the back of the eye that relays impulses to the optic nerve. In rare cases, the retina can separate from the blood vessels that provide it with oxygen and nutrients.

What Causes Retinal Detachment?

A retinal detachment can be caused by retinal disease, injury, scar tissue, inflammation or diabetes, but most retinal detachments are spontaneous. People who exhibit the greatest risk for retinal detachment include individuals who:

  • Have had a retinal detachment in the past
  • Have a family history of retinal detachment
  • Are extremely nearsighted
  • Have experienced eye trauma
  • Have had diabetic retinopathy or inflammation
  • Have undergone cataract surgery

Retinal Detachment Surgery

Almost all patients with a retinal detachment require surgery to prevent permanent vision loss. The type of surgery depends on the details of the patient’s detachment.

Photocoagulation (laser surgery) or cryopexy (freezing treatment) — Laser surgery or freezing treatment may be sufficient to prevent the retina from pulling away if the retinal holes or tears are small.

Scleral buckle — A surgeon sews a plastic, silicone band to the sclera to keep the retina in place and allow it to reattach to the back of the eye. Sometimes, the vitreous fluid behind the detached retina must be removed so the retina can recede to the back of the eye again.  

Pneumatic retinopexy — A surgeon injects a gas bubble into the center of the eyeball to flatten the retina against the back of the eye. Using a laser beam or freezing probe, the surgeon then seals the retina into the proper position.

Vitrectomy — The surgeon removes the vitreous gel, so that it does not pull on the retina. The surgeon will replace the vitreous fluid with a saline solution and often a temporary gas bubble is placed to push the retina back into position. Vitrectomy can be combined with scleral buckle if necessary.

What are the Warning Signs of a Detached Retina?

When the retina is not receiving oxygen and nutrients, it begins to deteriorate and can cause permanent vision loss. A detached retina is painless, but it is often accompanied by symptoms like:

  • Blurred vision
  • Eye floaters
  • Flashes of light
  • Reduced peripheral vision

A Retinal Specialist to the Rescue

If you experience any symptoms of retinal detachment, call your ophthalmologist immediately. Swift intervention will help preserve your vision. You can maintain healthy eyesight by scheduling yearly comprehensive eye exams, so make an appointment today.