During the procedure, the physician looks at the inside lining of the lower large intestine to check for signs of colorectal cancer or for small growths called polyps. The entire procedure takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Afterward, patients may feel bloated for a short period of time, but this feeling will disappear. The physician or nurse will then review results with the patient and help coordinate any follow-up care, if needed. As of January 1998, Medicare covers screening flexible sigmoidoscopy.
Free care is available for persons without adequate health insurance.
The program is funded by the Pennsylvania State Department of Health and is administered by the University of Pittsburgh.