Haxtun Health Now Offering Shield Cancer Screening
Peace of Mind, Close to Home
Living in rural Colorado means long days, hard work, and taking care of the people and land we love. Whether you’re tending crops, working cattle, raising a family, or enjoying retirement, your health matters. At Haxtun Health, we know that preventive care can be challenging when appointments, travel, and complicated tests get in the way. That’s why we’re proud to announce that Haxtun Health Clinic is now offering the Shield blood-based colorectal cancer screening test. It’s a simple, convenient way to take charge of your health.
Why Screen for Colorectal Cancer?
Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains the second leading cause of cancer related deaths in the United States. Early detection saves lives: the 5-year survival rate is 91% when found early, compared to just 14% when detected at later stages. Yet, despite the importance of screening, 1 in 3 eligible Americans are not up to date with recommended CRC screening because traditional methods can feel invasive, time consuming, or uncomfortable, and let’s be honest, embarrassing.
Shield helps change that. Instead of a colonoscopy prep or mailing in stool samples, Shield uses a quick blood draw during a routine visit, making screening far more accessible for busy rural families, farmers working from dawn to dusk, or older adults who want to avoid lengthy procedures.
Why Haxtun Health Is Partnering With Shield by Guardant
Guardant Health is a nationally recognized precision oncology company whose technology is used across cancer care. Shield is the first blood test approved by the FDA as a primary screening option for colorectal cancer for average risk adults 45 and older, and the first such test to meet Medicare coverage requirements.
The Shield test looks for tiny pieces of DNA and other markers that cancer cells release into the bloodstream, helping doctors detect colorectal cancer earlier than waiting for symptoms to appear.
For our community, this means better access, fewer barriers, and a screening method that fits real rural lifestyles. No special diet. No sedation. No missed days of work during harvest or branding season.
Is the Shield Test Covered?
Yes. The Shield test is covered by Medicare, and most patients with Medicare Part B will have no out‑of‑pocket cost. Shield is also covered for patients receiving Veterans Health Administration Community Care and TRICARE benefits.
For patients enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans, costs such as copays or deductibles may apply and will depend on the individual plan.
Patients without coverage can still receive the test. Guardant Health offers cost‑estimate support to help patients understand potential costs ahead of time and avoid surprises. It’s also important to note that Shield is not recommended for people over the age of 85.
Most private insurance plans do not cover the Shield test at this time. Because this is a newer screening option, coverage policies are still evolving. Patients with private insurance may have out‑of‑pocket costs and are encouraged to check their individual plan. Coverage is expected to expand over time as insurance policies and screening guidelines continue to be updated.
What Does Shield Screen For?
Shield is specifically designed to screen for colorectal cancer by detecting DNA fragments shed by cancer cells into the bloodstream (circulating tumor DNA, or ctDNA). It is not a replacement for diagnostic colonoscopy and is intended for individuals at average risk, age 45 and older.
If the test is positive, a colonoscopy is still needed to confirm findings.
How Long are the Results Valid?
Like other CRC screening tests, Shield is intended to be part of routine preventive care. While Shield materials do not specify a strict interval, colorectal screening recommendations generally fall on 1 to 3 year cycles depending on the test type. Your provider will help determine how often to repeat it based on your risk and current guidelines.
Do You Need a Doctor’s Order?
Yes. Shield is available by prescription through a healthcare provider, which helps ensure the test is appropriate for your health history and risk level.
A Simple Step Toward Peace of Mind
For many in our community, the Shield test offers a practical, comfortable option for lifesaving screening.
The test takes minutes. The peace of mind lasts far longer.
To schedule your Shield screening or to learn more, contact Haxtun Health Clinic today at 970-774-6187. Let’s keep our community strong, healthy, and thriving, one simple blood draw at a time.
