By Nurse Deb, Division President of AIMM, a Vensure Employer Solutions Company

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month—a time to talk about prevention, screening, and, most importantly, making smart healthcare choices. While early detection is critical, the quality of care you receive during screening and treatment can significantly impact your outcome.

Colonoscopy, the gold standard for detecting colorectal cancer, may seem routine—but did you know complication rates can vary widely between providers? From perforations to infections, what should be a straightforward procedure can turn into a nightmare if you’re not careful about where you go. Unfortunately, most patients don’t realize that these risks exist, let alone how to evaluate a provider’s track record.

That’s where objective quality scores come in. These scores use data to rank providers based on patient outcomes, complication rates, and other key metrics. At AIMM, we use these scores to guide patients to providers who consistently deliver top-tier care—not once, but hundreds of times per month. Think of it like choosing a Four Seasons experience for your health, rather than settling for Motel 6. Sure, both technically get the job done, but wouldn’t you rather have exceptional care, less stress, and a better overall experience?

It’s not just about avoiding complications—it’s also about cost. Hospitals often come with a long list of separate charges for everything from the procedure to the anesthesia and even the facility itself. In contrast, many high-quality outpatient surgical centers offer bundled pricing, which provides clarity and can significantly reduce expenses. Imagine knowing upfront what your care will cost while also knowing you’re in the best possible hands.

We once guided a patient to a high-quality provider for a routine colonoscopy after uncovering troubling complication rates at their initial choice. The result? A smooth, complication-free procedure at a fraction of the cost they would have faced at a hospital.

Colorectal cancer is preventable, treatable, and beatable—but only if you approach your care with the right information and resources. DON’T settle for less—we can help. This March, take a moment to ask: Who’s handling your care, and how do they measure up? Your health deserves the Four Seasons treatment—don’t settle for less.