[{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"BlogPosting","@id":"https:\/\/www.regionalcancercare.org\/news\/what-to-expect-during-a-colonoscopy\/#BlogPosting","mainEntityOfPage":"https:\/\/www.regionalcancercare.org\/news\/what-to-expect-during-a-colonoscopy\/","headline":"What Is a Colonoscopy and How Do You Prepare for One?","name":"What Is a Colonoscopy and How Do You Prepare for One?","description":"What Is a Colonoscopy and How Do You Prepare for One? July 13, 2026 Getting a colonoscopy is a normal part of adult healthcare. While the idea of undergoing the procedure may be uncomfortable, this routine test plays an important role in colon cancer detection and shouldn’t be avoided. Patients can make the procedure more […]","datePublished":"2026-07-13","dateModified":"2026-07-16","author":{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/www.regionalcancercare.org\/news\/author\/seo-user\/#Person","name":"Advance SEO","url":"https:\/\/www.regionalcancercare.org\/news\/author\/seo-user\/","identifier":7,"image":{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/25d521bea98e4070937950c92cd06d2b99615947d3d29e3682593c48f0372431?s=96&d=mm&r=g","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/25d521bea98e4070937950c92cd06d2b99615947d3d29e3682593c48f0372431?s=96&d=mm&r=g","height":96,"width":96}},"publisher":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Regional Cancer Care Associates","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https:\/\/www.regionalcancercare.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/logo.svg","url":"https:\/\/www.regionalcancercare.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/logo.svg","width":506,"height":228}},"image":{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https:\/\/www.regionalcancercare.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/doctor-using-model-to-explain-colonoscopy-exam.jpg","url":"https:\/\/www.regionalcancercare.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/doctor-using-model-to-explain-colonoscopy-exam.jpg","height":475,"width":900},"url":"https:\/\/www.regionalcancercare.org\/news\/what-to-expect-during-a-colonoscopy\/","about":["All Cancers"],"wordCount":3444,"articleBody":"\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tWhat Is a Colonoscopy and How Do You Prepare for One?\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tJuly 13, 2026\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tGetting a colonoscopy is a normal part of adult healthcare. While the idea of undergoing the procedure may be uncomfortable, this routine test plays an important role in colon cancer detection and shouldn’t be avoided. Patients can make the procedure more tolerable by learning more about it and planning ahead. Regional Cancer Care Associates (RCCA) is one of the nation’s largest networks of cancer specialists. Our experienced and compassionate medical oncologists deliver cutting-edge care for colon cancer, other cancers, and benign blood conditions at more than 20 locations near you in New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and the Washington, D.C., area. Here, we help you prepare for your colonoscopy with an overview of the procedure and what to expect at every stage.\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tKey TakeawaysColonoscopies are the gold standard for colon cancer screening. They provide more accurate results than other screening tests and allow for immediate polyp removal and biopsy.Preparing for a colonoscopy requires performing a bowel cleanse to empty the colon. Follow instructions carefully to ensure a successful cleanse.To perform a colonoscopy, gastroenterologists use a specialized camera to examine the colon lining from the inside. The test is performed under sedation and takes approximately one hour.What Is a Colonoscopy?A colonoscopy is the standard screening test for colon cancer. This diagnostic test involves inserting a colonoscope through the anus and into the colon. A colonoscope is a thin, flexible tube that is about four to five feet long. The end is equipped with a tiny camera and a light. By guiding the colonoscope up the length of the colon, physicians can examine the colon lining.This close evaluation is useful for diagnosing a variety of conditions, including colon inflammation, ulcers, bleeding, and blockages. The procedure\u2019s most important use is for diagnosing colon cancer. Colonoscopies can identify polyps and cancerous tumors, often long before the cancer starts causing symptoms. By detecting cancer in its initial stages, the test gives patients an earlier opportunity for treatment, helping improve outcomes.Who Performs a Colonoscopy?Colonoscopies are performed by gastroenterologists, doctors who specialize in treating conditions of the digestive system. After graduating from medical school, they complete three years of residency training in internal medicine followed by a three-year fellowship for subspecialty training in gastroenterology. This thorough education gives these physicians an in-depth understanding of how to diagnose, treat, and prevent a wide variety of digestive diseases.Colonoscopy vs. Other Screening OptionsColonoscopy is considered the gold standard for colon cancer screening. The direct visual examination of the colon gives physicians the best chance of discovering colon cancer early. However, it isn\u2019t the only screening option. Other tests are available for patients who prefer a less-invasive evaluation and whose medical history and degree of risk for colon cancer support use of these screening methods.Fecal Immunochemical TestA fecal immunochemical test (FIT) is a type of colon cancer screening test that can be performed at home. Patients are given a testing kit and instructions to collect a small stool sample after a bowel movement. The sample is sent to a laboratory, where it is examined for blood. Blood traces are often the first sign of colon cancer, because tumors are more vulnerable to bleeding than healthy colon tissue.FITs should be repeated annually for effective screening. This method is more accurate than some other screening tests, but is still less reliable than a colonoscopy. FITs also can\u2019t detect blood from the upper colon. As a result, FITs can only screen for lower colon cancer.Stool DNA TestA stool DNA test is another at-home screening test. Like a FIT, the test requires collecting a stool sample to be sent to a medical lab. This test looks for microscopic fragments of DNA. Colon cancer and polyp cells are very delicate and can break as stool passes. This damage leaves DNA fragments in the stool. By checking for abnormal DNA fragments, a stool DNA test can effectively suggest the presence of cancer.Stool DNA tests must be repeated every three years for effective screening. While they have a high detection rate for colon cancer, they also frequently return false positives and false negatives. For this reason, stool DNA tests are not recommended for high-risk patients.Virtual ColonoscopyA virtual colonoscopy, also called CT colonography, employs medical imaging to examine the colon lining. A computed tomography (CT) scan uses low doses of X-rays to take images of the colon from multiple angles. Computer technology assembles these images into a three-dimensional model that the physician can scrutinize for polyps, tumors, and cysts, similar to a colonoscopy.CT colonoscopies should be repeated every five years. This test is less invasive than a true colonoscopy, though it still requires bowel prep. It is accurate for identifying larger polyps and cancerous masses, but it can sometimes miss small ones.Flexible SigmoidoscopyA flexible sigmoidoscopy can be considered a partial colonoscopy. The gastroenterologist uses a sigmoidoscope, which is similar to a colonoscope but shorter in length. The sigmoidoscope is inserted into the anus and used to examine the rectum and the lower third of the colon. Most colorectal cancer forms in the lower end, so a sigmoidoscopy is often effective for identification.Sigmoidoscopies should be repeated every five years. The test is about as accurate as a colonoscopy, but it can only detect polyps and colon cancers that develop in the bottom portion of the colon. It cannot detect right-sided (upper colon) cancer or polyps.Screening MethodHow It WorksFrequency (Subject to change based on patient history)Detects Polyps?Requires Prep?ColonoscopyA colonoscope is inserted into the anus to examine the whole length of the colon.10 yearsYesYesFITA stool sample is tested in a laboratory for blood traces.1 yearNoNoStool DNA TestA stool sample is tested in a laboratory for blood traces and DNA remnants.3 yearsNoNoCT ColonoscopyMedical imaging is used to create a three-dimensional model of the colon.5 yearsSometimesYesFlexible SigmoidoscopyA sigmoidoscopy is inserted into the anus to examine the lower third of the colon.5 yearsYesYes When Should You Have a Colonoscopy?For consistent protection, people should repeat colon cancer screenings on a regular basis. As of 2021, the American Cancer Society recommends that people with an average risk of colon cancer start regular colonoscopies at age 45. Most cases of the disease develop after age 45, so this recommendation maximizes the chances of catching cancer early.Regular screening should continue until age 75. Between ages 75 and 85, the decision to screen should be made individually. Factors to consider when deciding whether to screen include:Life expectancyOverall healthPrior screening historyPersonal preferencesAfter age 85, regular colon cancer screenings are no longer recommended. Colon cancer is typically slow-growing and can take years to progress from polyps into true cancer. For very old patients, the time it takes for cancer to develop may exceed their life expectancy. As a result, the risks associated with a colonoscopy no longer outweigh the benefits.Who Should Start Colon Cancer Screening Earlier?While the standard screening age is recommended for people with normal risk levels, individuals with a higher-than-average risk of colon cancer should start earlier. The following individuals should begin routine colon cancer screenings at age 40 or earlier:African-American adultsPeople with a strong family history of colon cancer or polypsPeople with a personal history of inflammatory bowel diseasePeople with a personal history of colon cancerPeople with Lynch syndromePeople should talk with their primary care providers about their risk factors to design a screening strategy that best meets their specific situation and needs.How Often Do You Need a Colonoscopy?In general, individuals who have a negative initial colonoscopy (meaning no worrisome findings) should have a repeat colonoscopy every 10 years. Because colon cancer is slow growing, one test per decade is usually enough for individuals with an average risk of colon cancer. If a colonoscopy or other screening test detects anything unusual, such as precancerous polyps or blood traces in stool, the screening frequency should increase. Colonoscopies every three to five years often are recommended to monitor suspicious changes in the colon.Individuals with a higher-than-average risk of colon cancer should screen more frequently. People with one or more major risk factors should speak with their primary care physicians or gastroenterologist about what colon cancer screening schedule is appropriate for their needs.How to Prepare for a ColonoscopyBefore receiving a colonoscopy, you must perform a bowel cleanse. This step ensures that your colon is clean for testing. Pieces of stool can obstruct the colonoscope or cover patches of the colon lining, potentially hiding a polyp or cancerous lesion. Cleaning the bowels is essential to eliminate possible blockages and ensure an accurate test.The bowel cleanse begins one to a few days before the colonoscopy procedure. The gastroenterologist will provide detailed instructions on how to complete the cleanse correctly. Here is an overview of what to expect.A Few Days Before the ProcedureWhile you should follow the instructions provided by your gastroenterologist, the bowel cleansing usually begins a few days before the procedure. At this stage, you should avoid eating fiber-rich foods that contribute to dense stool. This includes:Seeds and nutsRaw vegetables with the skin intactWhole-grain bread or pastaBrown or wild riceShredded wheat, oatmeal, and granolaFruit with skinsTough meatFatty foodsMeal planning is encouraged to help you maintain high-quality nutrition while avoiding fiber. Some shopping list items to consider may include:White bread, rice, and pastaPotatoes without the skinCanned or well-cooked vegetablesFruit without skinTender meat, chicken, and fishAlso, remember to stay hydrated. Frequent hydration is healthy, and it also helps stool move through the bowel for a more effective cleanse. Your gastroenterologist also will instruct you about how far in advance of your colonoscopy you should stop taking aspirin, which thins the blood, to reduce the risk of any procedure-related bleeding. If you take other blood-thinning medications for reasons such as reducing the risk of stroke or deep vein thrombosis, the gastroenterologist also will provide guidance on use of these medicines in the days prior to your colonoscopy. Be sure to tell the gastroenterologist about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you take, as well as about any supplements or herbal preparations.The Day Before the ProcedureOne day before the colonoscopy, you\u2019ll shift to a clear liquid diet. This term means a diet of only liquid foods that lack pulp, solids, or cream. In general, any liquid that is not transparent should be avoided. Examples of approved foods include:Fat-free broth or bouillonGelatinSports drinksSodaPlain coffee or teaPulp-free fruit juiceWaterYou will also take your first dose of the bowel prep solution. This is a strong laxative to help stool move quickly through your bowels. Always follow the instructions carefully to make sure that the laxative is taken correctly, both for effective cleansing and for your own health and convenience.The Morning of the ProcedureOn the morning of the procedure, take the second dose of your bowel prep solution (if you are using a split-dose solution). This timing may differ based on when in the day you are having your procedure. For example, if you are having an early-morning colonoscopy, you may be instructed to finish taking your bowel prep solution the night before.  You should also avoid all food and drinks for at least three hours before the procedure is scheduled. When it\u2019s time to head to the hospital or other testing center, put on comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and flat-soled shoes such as tennis shoes. Finally, be sure to arrange transportation to and from the hospital, as sedation typically is used during the procedure. If you take oral medications for high blood pressure, high lipid levels, diabetes, or other conditions, check with your gastroenterologist on whether and when you should take those medicines.What Is Normal During Bowel Prep?If the bowel prep is performed correctly, your stool should be a transparent or yellowish liquid. This is normal and means that your colon is ready for screening. Frequent and intense diarrhea is also normal. Make sure you have easy access to a bathroom throughout the preparation stage.Finally, if you have any concerns about your ability to complete the cleanse, speak with your gastroenterologist. Alternative screening methods may be arranged if you have any health issues or other concerns that prevent a complete cleanse.What Happens During a Colonoscopy?After completing the bowel prep, it\u2019s time for the procedure. You will check in at the hospital or other testing site and begin your pre-procedure preparation. First, you will take off your clothing and put on a hospital gown provided by the nurse. The nurse typically will then place an intravenous line in your hand or arm to allow for administration of sedation medicine prior to the procedure. You will then be taken to the procedure room.Sedation OptionsColonoscopies are usually performed under sedation. This relieves discomfort and helps you and your colon stay relaxed throughout the procedure. Most gastroenterologists offer a choice between two types of sedation:Moderate sedation: Also called twilight sedation, this method keeps you mostly aware during the procedure. You will be conscious and able to respond to commands.Deep sedation: This method puts you in an almost unconscious state. You will not be aware of the procedure, and breathing tubes may be required to keep the airways clear.You can speak with the anesthesiologist to learn more about the sedation options and what to expect from each.The Colonoscopy ProcedureOnce the sedation has taken effect, the procedure itself will begin. A colonoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that involves these steps:You are positioned on the operating table, usually on your side or stomach.A tube is inserted into the anus. The tube blows carbon dioxide into the colon, inflating it. The inflation allows the colonoscope to move up the colon without being restricted.The colonoscope is inserted into the anus and gently guided up the length of your colon.The colonoscope camera provides a live video feed that the gastroenterologist monitors to look for inflammation, polyps, or other suspicious tissue.The colonoscope is removed once the procedure is completed.The procedure takes between 30 minutes and one hour to complete. Afterward, you will be moved to a recovery room until the sedation wears off. You should be cleared to go home as soon as you are alert.What Is a Polypectomy?If any polyps or suspicious growths are found during the colonoscopy, the gastroenterologist will perform a polypectomy. This procedure uses a specialized cutting tool attached to the end of the colonoscope. This tool is used to remove the suspicious growth. This tissue will be tested in a laboratory to confirm whether the polyp is hyperplastic (benign) or adenomatous (precancerous).What Happens After a Colonoscopy?You can go home as soon as the doctor confirms that you are sufficiently alert and there have been no immediate complications from the colonoscopy. While you might be impatient to get back to normal, jumping back to your usual diet can stress the colon. Start with liquids and soft, low-fiber foods such as:Mashed potatoesSkinless chicken breastsWhite breadScrambled eggsWhite riceFishWell-cooked, skinless vegetablesIf these foods do not irritate your colon, then you can gradually build up toward fiber foods. When in doubt, do not rush your recovery. It is better to give your colon time to bounce back than to hurry and cause yourself discomfort.Common Side Effects After a ColonoscopyMost patients experience a few side effects after a colonoscopy. These include:BloatingGasMinor crampsBlood spotting in stoolThese side effects should clear up within 48 hours. If you experience severe pain, fever, or bleeding beyond a few drops on underwear or toilet paper, or if the side effects listed above last longer than a few days, contact your gastroenterologist.Getting Your Colonoscopy ResultsColonoscopy results can take a few days or up to a week or more to process. Your gastroenterologist will schedule a follow-up appointment or phone call to discuss the outcome.If the colon is clear, congratulations: there is no cancer. You don\u2019t need to worry about screening for another 10 years. If polyps were found, you will discuss the next steps. Precancerous polyps will require more frequent monitoring. Signs of actual cancer, meanwhile, will require further testing.Learn More about Colonoscopies in NJ, CT, MA, and the Washington, D.C., AreaIf, unfortunately, your colonoscopy results in a diagnosis of colon cancer, get in touch with Regional Cancer Care Associates (RCCA). We offer state-of-the-art cancer treatment at more than 20 community-based locations near you in New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and the Washington, D.C., area, letting patients receive care close to home. Contact us to learn more about treatment options for colon cancer or to request an appointment.Frequently Asked Questions About ColonoscopyWhat is a colonoscopy used to detect?Colonoscopies are used to detect certain diseases of the colon, including inflammation, ulcers, precancerous polyps, and colon cancer.How long does a colonoscopy take?A colonoscopy takes 30 to 60 minutes to complete. Patients should give themselves extra time afterward to wake up from sedation and get home safely.Is a colonoscopy painful?Colonoscopies are usually performed under sedation, so they are not painful. You may not even remember the procedure.What can I eat the day before a colonoscopy?The day before a colonoscopy, you can only consume clear liquids. This includes see-through liquids that do not include pulp, solids, or cream. Follow your gastroenterologist\u2019s specific instructions regarding eating and other aspects of preparing for your colonoscopy.Can I drive myself home after a colonoscopy?No, you cannot drive yourself home after a colonoscopy. The sedative can take several hours to completely wear off, so driving is not safe.What does it mean if polyps are found during a colonoscopy?If polyps are found during a colonoscopy, they will be removed and tested. Hyperplastic polyps are benign and not a reason for concern. If the polyps are adenomatous (precancerous), more frequent screening may be required to look for and remove other adenomatous polyps that may develop.How often do I need a colonoscopy?Most people need a colonoscopy every 10 years. If you are at a high risk of colon cancer or if polyps have been found on a previous colonoscopy, then you should get tested every three to five years. Your gastroenterologist will identify the screening interval appropriate for oyur specific situation.At what age should you have your first colonoscopy?Most people should have their first colonoscopy at age 45. At-risk individuals should start screening earlier, usually at age 40.What is the difference between a diagnostic colonoscopy and a screening colonoscopy?A screening colonoscopy is performed on a routine basis to check for emergent signs of colon cancer. A diagnostic colonoscopy, on the other hand, is requested after a patient experiences colon cancer symptoms or has abnormal results on another screening test.What happens if the colonoscopy prep doesn’t work completely?If the colonoscopy prep does not work, you may have to reschedule the colonoscopy. Talk with your gastroenterologist about what to do if you have an incomplete or inadequate bowel cleanse.\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\twe are here for you\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tFor more information or to schedule an appointment, call 844-346-7222. You can also schedule an appointment by calling the\u00a0RCCA location\u00a0nearest you.\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\trequest an appointment\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tRELATED ARTICLES\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tThe Risk of Colon Cancer in Women\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tWhen something in your body changes without warning, it is natural to be concerned. Seemingly minor issues can sometimes indicate a serious problem, like colon\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tLearn More\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tGERD and Esophageal Cancer Risk: 2 RCCA Oncologists\u2028Discuss What to Know \u2013 and What to Do\u2028\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tLiving with gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, can mean living with worries. Will the limited-choice menu at that important business dinner have something \u2018safe\u2019 for\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tLearn More\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tHow and When Your Patient\u2019s Oncologist Should Be Communicating with You: 2 RCCA Specialists Weigh In\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSeth H. Berk, MD, says that even in this era of electronic medical records and text messaging, primary care physicians and other clinicians too often\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tLearn More\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tRegional Cancer Care Associates is one of fewer than 200 medical practices in the country selected to participate in the Oncology Care Model (OCM); a recent Medicare initiative aimed at improving care coordination and access to and quality of care for Medicare beneficiaries undergoing chemotherapy treatment.\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t"},{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"BreadcrumbList","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"News","item":"https:\/\/www.regionalcancercare.org\/news\/#breadcrumbitem"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"What Is a Colonoscopy and How Do You Prepare for One?","item":"https:\/\/www.regionalcancercare.org\/news\/what-to-expect-during-a-colonoscopy\/#breadcrumbitem"}]}]