Colon Cancer Check, a new cancer screening program for all Ontarians

In January, 2007, the Ontario government in collaboration with Cancer Care Ontario announced the launch of a new province-wide colorectal cancer screening program.

This program, first of its kind in Canada, will provide regular colorectal cancer screening to all asymptomatic Ontarians 50 years and older. The program goals are to reduce the mortality from colorectal cancer through an organized screening program and to improve the capacity for primary care to participate in comprehensive colorectal cancer screening. ColonCancerCheck will do this by expanding access to screening, supporting physicians and other health care professionals to screen patients, and educating the public about colorectal cancer screening.

Beginning in April 2008, community pharmacists will play an important role in supporting ColonCancerCheck by distributing take home Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) kits to average risk participants aged 50 years and over who do not have a primary care provider. The Ontario Pharmacist’s Association, together with CancerCareOntario and the Ministry of Health, is pleased to announce the release of Pharmacist Information Kit, the first in a series of communications pharmacist will receive as ColonCancerCheck rolls out across the province.

Ontaio Pharmacist’s Association (OPA) is playing an important role by working with both the Ministry of Health and Cancer Care Ontario to ensure pharmacists are provided with the information and tools necessary for successful program implementation.

Pharmacist will be reimbursed $7.00 per FOBT kit distributed to eligible participants.

For more information visit, www.coloncancercheck.ca