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All GI facilities should stick to the same
basic blueprint when ramping up
colonoscopy volumes for as long as
COVID-19 plays a major factor in the
screening equation, according to
Mohammad A. Al-Haddad, MD, a gas-
troenterologist with Indiana University
Health in Indianapolis. Here are ways to
ensure screenings are rescheduled
safely and appropriately:
1. Useful stats. Research the preva-
lence rate of coronavirus antibodies and
antigens in your community and state.
Low numbers could allay the fears of hesitant patients, who
might otherwise cancel their cases. High numbers could cause
you to rethink your plans to increase case volumes.
2. Updated protocols. Create written policies for new cleaning
protocols, PPE allocation, supply chain management, COVID-19
screening and how to respond if a patient, staff member or physi-
cian exhibits symptoms of infection. Be ready to adjust these doc-
uments often.
3. Constant communication. Provide schedulers and nurses
with talking points about these updated policies to share with
patients. Keeping patients informed could reduce their anxiety
about receiving care during a pandemic. Your staff should also
remind reluctant patients about the importance of their upcoming
screening and why it shouldn't wait. — Jared Bilski
RAMPING UP
3 Keys to Restarting Screenings
COLD CALLING Instead of rescheduling
every canceled case, try to identify
patients who are at a higher risk for
colon cancer.
