Medicare covers preventive tests for specific diseases. The amounts patients pay and the deductibles vary according to the disease. For others, occult fecal blood test and flexible sigmoidoscopy every 4 years. Barium enemas are an alternative to sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy. Supplying patients with glucose monitors, lancets and test strips to better control the blood glucose level.
Educational programs are also available.
The rates of primary and secondary syphilis have dramatically declined in the USA since the 1980s. The CDC believes there is a window of opportunity to eliminate syphilis. The rates in fact are so low and geographically focussed that there is a unique chance to eradicate the disease. A National Plan for Syphilis Elimination has been developed and is targeting 33 states and cities with relatively high rates of the disease. Pharmaceutical companies pledge vaccines for developing countries.