Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in North Dakota, but it is highly preventable with regular screening. The North Dakota Colorectal Cancer Screening Initiative (NDCRCSI) helps eligible adults get screened at no cost to the patient. Early detection through screening can save lives, and this program makes it easier for age- and income-eligible North Dakotans to access the tests they need, as NDCRCSI covers screening only. The program is funded by the North Dakota Legislative Assembly and managed by the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services Comprehensive Cancer Program, with Quality Health Associates of North Dakota assisting patients with enrollment and expanding access to participating facilities across the state.
Eligibility Requirements
- Men and women ages 45-64
- A resident of North Dakota
- Uninsured or underinsured
- Is at an average or increased risk for colorectal cancer
- Low-income
- Is due or past due for CRC screening
How do I enroll?
To enroll or get more information, please contact:
Quality Health Associates Enrollment Center
- Call (833) 220-2981
- Email ndcrc@qualityhealthnd.org
- Self-Referral
Once you enroll, you’ll receive a 12-digit Initiative ID number from Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota. Present this number when you use Colorectal Screening Program service.
Income Guidelines
The Colorectal Screening Program requires your annual income to fall within 139 to 200% of the federal poverty guidelines:
| Persons in Household | Yearly | Monthly |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $30,120.00 | $2,510.00 |
| 2 | $40,880.00 | $3,406.67 |
| 3 | $51,640.00 | $4,303.33 |
| 4 | $62,400.00 | $5,200.00 |
| 5 | $73,160.00 | $6,096.67 |
| 6 | $83,920.00 | $6,993.33 |
| 7 | $94,680.00 | $7,890.00 |
| 8 | $105,440.00 | $8,786.67 |
| Each additional person $10,760 per year or $896.67 per month | ||
Risk Factors for Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer risk factors include both things you can control and those you cannot such as lifestyle choices and genetic factors.
Factors you can control:
- Being overweight or obese
- A sedentary lifestyle
- A diet high in processed foods or red meat
- Smoking
- Alcohol use
Factors you cannot control:
- Your age
- Personal history of colorectal cancer or polyps
- Personal history of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
- Family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
- Type 2 diabetes
- Racial and ethnic background
Prevention
You can significantly reduce your risk for colorectal cancer by following these six tips:
- Get screened for colorectal cancer regularly
- Eat a balanced diet that includes whole grains, lean proteins, fruit and vegetables
- Exercise regularly
- Manage your weight
- Avoid smoking
- Limit alcohol consumption
Tests Covered by the program
- Fecal occult blood test (FOBT) and fecal immunochemical test (FIT): These tests examine blood in the stool, which can show colorectal cancer
- mts-DNA Test, also known as Cologuard®: This test analyzes a stool sample to look for cancer. The DNA can show a need for a colonoscopy
- Colonoscopy: This test uses a small, flexible camera to examine the colon
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get treatment through the Colorectal Cancer Screening Program?
No, the program only helps provide screening services.
What does the program cover?
- Office visits where a CRC Screening test is ordered
- Colorectal Cancer screening as a shared decision between patient and provider
- Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT)
- mts-DNA (Cologuard)
- Colonoscopy
- Pre-op office visit, if required
- Limited lab work with pre-op visit
- Bowel prep in some instances, please ask enrollment specialist
- Analysis of any biopsies taken during the colonoscopy procedure
- Follow-up colonoscopy following a positive stool test
- Surveillance colorectal cancer screening at interval indicated by provider
Where can I find cancer treatment?
If you receive a colorectal cancer diagnosis, use the contact information here or visit North Dakota’s Medicaid website to learn about treatment and financial aid options
Contact Us
Individuals inquiring about Colorectal Cancer Screening eligibility can contact the enrollment center at (833) 220-2981 or email at ndcrc@qualityhealthnd.org.