Colorectal Cancer Screenings
Take a proactive step for your health with compassionate, personalized help with colorectal screening at Pillars Community Health.
Our medical providers can help you understand your risk, review screening options, and help with the next steps, including a colonoscopy referral when needed.
At Pillars Community Health, we believe care that prevents illness should be clear, accessible, and centered on you. Screening can find colorectal cancer before symptoms appear and identify growths that may become cancer that may be removed before cancer develops.
Whether you are due for your first screening, need to get back on schedule, or have questions about your personal or family health history, our team is here to help.
For questions about accessing care at one of our Community Health Centers:
Our Colorectal Cancer Screening Services
When you choose Pillars Community Health for colorectal cancer screening support, your care may include:
- Personalized Risk Review: We consider your age, personal and family health history, previous screening results, and overall health to determine when and how often you should be screened.
- Screening Guidance: Your provider will explain available options, preparation steps, benefits, and limitations to help you choose an appropriate test.
- Colonoscopy Referrals: If a colonoscopy is recommended, we can coordinate a specialist referral and explain the next steps.
- Results and Follow-Up: Our team will help you understand your results and coordinate any more tests or care as needed.
Screening options may include an at-home stool test or a colonoscopy performed by a specialist, which can find and remove many polyps. An abnormal result from a stool-based test or certain other screening methods usually requires a follow-up colonoscopy.
Who Should Get Colorectal Cancer Screening?
Most adults should start colorectal cancer screening at age 45. Regular screening is recommended through age 75, If you are 76 to 85, ask your provider if screening is right for you.
Your provider may recommend starting earlier or being screened more often if you have:
- A personal history of colorectal cancer or certain types of polyps
- A close family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
- Inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
- A known inherited condition that raises colorectal cancer risk
Screening is intended for people without symptoms. If you have symptoms or a new digestive health concern, schedule a medical appointment promptly rather than waiting for routine screening.
Are you 45 or older or unsure whether you are due? Call 708-PILLARS to schedule a medical visit.
What to Expect During Your Appointment
Pillars Community Health provides a supportive, private environment where you can ask questions and make informed decisions. During your visit, you can expect:
- A Review of Your Health: Your provider will ask about your health history, family history, previous screenings, and concerns.
- A Personalized Recommendation: Together, you will discuss which screening option is appropriate and when to complete it.
- Clear Next Steps: We will explain how to prepare and coordinate any necessary testing or specialist referral.
- Follow-Up and Support: Our team will review available results with you and help coordinate additional care if needed.
Preparing for Your Appointment
To make your appointment as helpful and comfortable as possible, please:
- Gather Previous Screening Records: Bring the dates and results of prior stool tests, colonoscopies, or other screenings, if available.
- Review Your Family History: Note whether close relatives have had colorectal cancer or polyps and when they were diagnosed.
- Bring Medical and Insurance Information: Bring a medication list, photo identification, and your insurance card if you have one.
- Consider Questions: Write down anything you would like to ask about screening choices, preparation, costs, or follow-up care.
How to Access Services
Schedule a screening visit at our integrated Health Center in La Grange Park. Current and new patients can call 708-PILLARS and select Medical from the prompts. Your provider can determine whether you are due for screening and coordinate the appropriate test or referral. You do not need to wait for symptoms to make a preventive care appointment.
To Get Started
Call 708-PILLARS (708-745-5277) or visit pillarscommunityhealth.org.
Ask to schedule an intake or learn more about psychiatric services.
We accept Medicaid, Medicare, and commercial insurance plans, and offer a sliding fee scale based on income. Our Benefits & Enrollment Navigators can also help you explore coverage options.