Welcome to the second edition of TriCom’s monthly newsletter! Every month, we’ll highlight a type of supplemental insurance that we provide for both our internal staff and all our consultants. To participate in National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, we’re putting the spotlight on our Valenz insurance program.

How to Receive Colonoscopies through TriCom’s Valenz Program

Once you turn 45, health experts recommend getting a colonoscopy every 10 years. If your family has a history of colorectal diagnoses, then starting those routine procedures sooner rather than later is always a good idea.

Here at TriCom, you may qualify to receive free colonoscopies through our supplemental insurance program with Valenz/KISx Card. Here are the three simple steps that you can expect:

• Get in touch with Valenz: Call 1-877-438-5479 to get paired with an RN who will coordinate your care.

• Talk to your nurse: Your KISx Card nurse will then connect you with a reputable, nearby provider and help schedule your colonoscopy.

• Receive the procedure: From there, you’ll receive your colonoscopy at the appointed date, time, and location, after which your KISx Card nurse will check in with you and address any additional concerns moving forward.

TriCom will cover any fees related to the procedure. That’s because we provide your imaging and surgical benefits as part of your medical plan. If you’re asked to pay for a portion of the cost, then we will reimburse you for that amount. To qualify, make sure to schedule your colonoscopy through Valenz’s care navigator.

National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, which is why we want to highlight our supplemental insurance through Valenz, formerly known as KISx. According to the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR), colorectal cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death in the United States. The National Cancer Institute also estimates that more than 154,000 people received a diagnosis of colon or rectal cancer last year, and nearly 53,000 died from it.

This form of cancer is also increasingly being diagnosed in people younger than 50. For example, early-onset colon and rectal cancers have increased by more than 131% since 1994. That’s an alarming statistic, but, fortunately, you can drastically reduce your likelihood of diagnosis through things such as diet and exercise. For example…

3 Colon-Friendly Foods

Avoiding red and processed meats, such as bacon, hot dogs, and salami, is paramount to reducing your susceptibility to colon and rectal cancers. According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), the risk of colon cancer can increase by 20% if you consume 100 grams of red meat, such as a small hamburger, or 50 grams or processed meat, such as a hot dog, per day.

Meanwhile, plant-based foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and nuts, can greatly reduce your risk of colon cancer. Here are three colon-friendly foods for a healthy digestion tract:

• Apples: An apple a day really can keep the doctor away! This simple, easy snack is chock-full of soluble fiber, especially pectin, and leaving the skin on means even more fiber.

• Live culture yogurt: Although most dairy products aren’t the best for your colon, yogurt with live cultures is full of probiotics that promote essential gut health.

• Beans and nuts: These fiber-rich foods are also filled with anti-inflammatory nutrients to encourage optimal bowel health. Bean- and nut-focused dishes, such as a chana masala curry or walnut and berry salad, are easy ways to ensure you’ve got your fiber intake.

Of course, TriCom is here to connect you with free colorectal care if you qualify through our Valenz program. If you’ve been diagnosed with colorectal cancer or have any questions about how this program works, then don’t hesitate to contact your HR representative.