A Simple Text, a Second Chance: How a Community Pharmacy Helped Dan
After facing a six-month wait for a colonoscopy, one man's journey from frustration to critical intervention began with an unexpected text message from his local pharmacy, highlighting the critical role pharmacies play in closing healthcare gaps.
MADISON, Wis. – August 5, 2025 – In the fight against colorectal cancer, early detection is paramount. Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the US, claiming an estimated 52,550 lives annually, with a concerning rise in cases among individuals under 50. Despite the clear benefits of screening, a staggering 20% of eligible Americans remain unscreened, often facing lengthy wait times for procedures like colonoscopies. Dan, a man in his late 40s who stays on top of his healthcare decisions, was one of them, caught in the frustrating reality of a healthcare system struggling to keep pace with demand.
After his routine visit with his Primary Care Provider (PCP), Dan called to schedule his colonoscopy but couldn’t get in for another 6 months. The delayed screening was frustrating for Dan and his family. Then, a simple text message changed everything. It didn’t come from Dan’s doctor’s office—but from a local community pharmacy he recognized and respected. Pharmacies had always been a trusted part of his healthcare experience, and this message reminded him just how accessible they could be. The message was concise and impactful: "Check your eligibility for at-home cancer screening." Intrigued and eager for access to his screening, Dan followed the link.
“I’ve always trusted pharmacies and the care pharmacists provide, that trust played a big role in my decision to screen at home—and I’m glad I did. It was such a simple, non-invasive way to get screened without waiting months.”
He discovered the pharmacy's new program, designed to connect patients with crucial care gap solutions, including at-home colon cancer screening tests. The process was remarkably straightforward. Within minutes, Dan ordered an at-home Colorectal Cancer (CRC) test, which arrived discreetly at his doorstep a few days later. He completed the test in the comfort and privacy of his home and sent it back, relieved he didn’t have to wait.
A short while later, the results arrived: positive.
The positive result was a call to action for Dan. Armed with concrete evidence, he immediately contacted his PCP. The positive at-home test result acted as a catalyst, instantly elevating his case from a routine screening to an urgent diagnostic need. What had previously been a six-month wait for a colonoscopy transformed into an expedited appointment within a couple weeks.
"Getting that positive result was a shock, but it also lit a fire under me. Suddenly, I wasn't waiting anymore; I was getting answers."
The colonoscopy itself was quick and efficient. The doctor confirmed the presence of precancerous polyps – silent threats that, if left undetected, could have developed into full-blown colorectal cancer. Thanks to the rapid intervention facilitated by his positive at-home test, these polyps were promptly removed as a routine part of the follow-up colonoscopy.
Dan's story is a powerful testament to the impact of accessible screening and the evolving role of community pharmacies. By leveraging Workflow Services, pharmacies are transforming into vital "health hubs," actively closing care gaps and, quite literally, saving lives in their communities. Dan's experience highlights how a simple, proactive outreach from a pharmacy can cut through bureaucratic delays, empower patients, and lead to timely, life-saving interventions. He is now a vocal advocate for early screening, grateful to his local pharmacy for giving him a second chance at health.
"I tell everyone now: don't wait. Your local pharmacy can be a crucial partner in your health journey. They literally gave me a second chance."
Learn more about the Colorectal Cancer Screening Eduction Program here.