Story perspectives

Insurance Firms Send Unsolicited Cancer Tests, Experts Warn

10/17/2025

36 6

Summary

Story summary

Insurance companies are sending unsolicited colorectal cancer screening kits to patients without physician recommendations.
Jeff Smith received a Cologuard test after colon removal, which produced a false positive and unnecessary anxiety.
Experts say colonoscopy should remain the first-line screening method because it detects and prevents cancer more effectively.
Stool-based tests like Cologuard can help close screening gaps without replacing personalized discussions with providers.

1 of 1

Story summary

Insurance companies are sending unsolicited colorectal cancer screening kits to patients without physician recommendations.
Jeff Smith received a Cologuard test after colon removal, which produced a false positive and unnecessary anxiety.
Experts say colonoscopy should remain the first-line screening method because it detects and prevents cancer more effectively.
Stool-based tests like Cologuard can help close screening gaps without replacing personalized discussions with providers.