Johnny, a patient from Albany Area Primary Health Care’s Dawson Medical Center, was guided by a Horizons Health Navigator to complete a FIT test. The test was positive which meant he needed to be scheduled for a colonoscopy for further diagnoses. Unfortunately, his appointment was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. During this time, Johnny also lost his job, resulting in loss of insurance coverage. Fortunately, our navigator was able to adjust to the situation and get him scheduled for the colonoscopy at Phoebe despite his lack of insurance.

The procedure led to finding that Johnny in fact had colon cancer in stage 3. At this stage, with the proper interventions, it would prevent any spread and allow him to live a cancer-free life. Had he not been able to receive the testing needed, especially with the cost burden, his future would be wildly uncertain. Johnny shared that he is extremely grateful to Horizons for helping him through this process and ultimately saving his life.