Catch up on your cancer screening
We reported in previous articles that many members did not keep up with their normal healthcare routine during the pandemic. This is not unique to Anglo Medical Scheme, but unfortunately a global trend. For cancer screening this is particularly problematic as it is so important to catch cancer as early as possible. A missed screening can mean a missed opportunity to start treatment early enough for the best possible outcome.
In the case of breast cancer, South African specialists noticed a worrying trend.
The Chief Operations Officer at the Breast Health Foundation, Louise Turner, shares her observations, saying "Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in women worldwide. In fact, in South Africa, the prevalence is high, with 1 in 28 women at risk of breast cancer. We saw women presenting with severe and advanced breast cancers in 2021, due to the lack of cancer screening in 2020. All in all, early detection saves lives."
We all know the reasons why we didn't keep up with our screening during the pandemic. Some facilities were not accessible during lockdown, some were under immense pressure or we were worried about exposure to Covid-19 at healthcare facilities. Luckily, these factors have changed. If you have not caught up on your screening yet - now is the time to get back to a healthy screening routine.
Don't give cancer a chance to sneak in undetected.
Please discuss your individual screening needs with your healthcare provider who will consider your family history or other risk factors that might influence the recommended screening frequency for you. Below are some general recommendations.
Breast cancer screening benefits
A mammogram is usually recommended every two years. It uses low-dose X-rays to create pictures of the breast. Doctors use a mammogram to look for early signs of breast cancer. A breast ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves on the breast and converts them into images. To access your mammogram benefits, don't forget to get a referral from your doctor and authorisation.
Cervical cancer screening
Pap smears are usually recommended every three years, unless you have certain risk factors. They detect abnormal cells in the cervix before they lead to cervical cancer. Screening can prevent most cervical cancers by finding abnormal cells (pre-cancerous) so that they can be treated before they have a chance to turn into cervical cancer.
Colorectal cancer screening
For beneficiaries over 50 years of age, stool-based tests for cancer screening are paid for from the out of hospital pathology benefit on the Standard Care Plan, and from risk (the Scheme) on the Managed Care Plan.
A colonoscopy might be recommended for those at high risk of developing this cancer such as those with a strong family history of colorectal cancer or living with medical conditions that increase the risk of colorectal cancer. On both Standard Care Plan and Managed Care Plan colonoscopies, like other scopes, need to be performed in a day clinic or accredited network facility to avoid a co-payment of R3 200, unless it is an emergency.
Prostate screening
Prostate screening can include a blood test (PSA) and an examination. One PSA test per year is paid by the Scheme, the consultation falls under your out of hospital benefits on the SCP and is paid from your MSA on the MCP.
Skin cancer
Our skin changes as we age and not all moles or growths are problematic; however, considering the frequency of skin cancer in South Africa we can't take a chance. We need to educate ourselves about the warning signs for skin cancer (read our previous article "Be skin and sun smart" on our website) and act if we see worrying changes. The GP can be the first port of call and, if necessary, will refer you for further screening or specialists.
Members of the Value Care Plan, please discuss cancer screening with your network provider who will guide you through the Prime Cure protocols and benefits for screening that are available to you.
Learn more about the Scheme benefits for preventative care and screenings available to you and your family in your Benefit Guide.
Sources: cansa.org.za; Discovery Health
Published: July 2022.