WNC Colorectal Cancer Screening Initiative Receives Grant from Colon Cancer Coalition

The Colon Cancer Coalition, a national nonprofit dedicated to reducing deaths from colorectal cancer through increased screening and public education, has awarded the WNC Colorectal Cancer Screening Initiative (WNC-CRCSI) a grant of $20,000 to support its work in the region. WNC-CRCSI is housed within the Western Carolina Medical Society.

Mobilizing a network of committed staff, volunteers, and advocates, the Colon Cancer Coalition works to raise awareness about the signs, symptoms, and preventability of colorectal cancer, encouraging individuals to understand their personal risk factors and pursue timely, appropriate screenings. The Coalition envisions a future where colorectal cancer screening is a routine part of lifelong healthcare and accessible to all.

WNC-CRCSI was founded by Dr. Michael Newcomer of Digestive Health Partners, who continues to serve as its medical director. Upon receiving the grant, Dr. Newcomer shared, “We are grateful to have received a grant from the Colon Cancer Coalition.  They have been outstanding supporters of education and screening in our region, and their ongoing partnership has been crucial for our program.  This grant provides key resources for continued screening access for uninsured residents of western North Carolina. These collaborative efforts help decrease the burden of colorectal cancer in our region and save lives.”

WNC-CRCSI operates in partnership with federally qualified community health centers, WCMS’ Project Access® program, independent primary care offices, and the American Cancer Society. Grounded in the belief that colorectal cancer is largely preventable, WNC-CRCSI works to expand access to life-saving screenings for uninsured, average-risk adults aged 45 and older. According to the American Cancer Society, routine screening could prevent up to 40% of deaths from late-stage colorectal cancer.

How the WNC-CRCSI Works:

• Provides free stool based screening with FIT tests at participating health centers at no cost to eligible patients.
• Offers free follow-up colonoscopies as needed for patients with a positive FIT who meet program criteria.
• Expanded Services via Project Access®:
  • Patients under age 65, living below 200% of the federal poverty level, and residing in Buncombe or Madison counties for at least one year may qualify for hospital-based services at no cost.
• Patients who do not qualify for Project Access® still receive a free colonoscopy if their FIT is positive.
  • If cancer is detected, patients are enrolled in a local hospital’s charity care program to access low-cost surgery and cancer treatment.

To learn more about WNC-CRCSI or Western Carolina Medical Society, visit https://www.mywcms.org/.