Explanation Regarding Fecal (Stool) Testing

This concern stems from the belief that individuals over the age of 75 are no longer eligible for a fecal test. Because we understand this concern, we would like to provide an explanation to reassure AZV-insured individuals and the Aruban community in general.

Curative Care vs. Preventive Screening

The AZV insurance is primarily intended for curative care (care provided when symptoms are present). Under the AZV law, all insured individuals—regardless of age—can discuss their symptoms or concerns with their primary care physician (PCP).

• If the PCP deems it medically necessary, standard medical guidelines are followed, and a fecal test can absolutely be performed.
• If necessary, the PCP will refer the patient to a specialist. This is the standard procedure and applies to all insured individuals, regardless of age.

Additionally, the same law allows AZV to cover preventive care through scientifically proven public health screening programs.

The CORESA Program (Ages 45 to 75)

In the interest of early cancer detection, AZV, in collaboration with Fundacion ABO, launched CORESA, a colorectal cancer screening program, starting in 2025. This preventive program specifically targets the 45 to 75 age group.

This target demographic was carefully selected based on international medical guidelines and in close consultation with local and international medical professionals. The laboratory tests within the CORESA program serve as an initial screening step. If necessary, they can lead to more advanced follow-up testing to detect colorectal cancer at an early stage.

Access to Care remains Guaranteed

It is important to understand that a preventive screening program is always tied to a specific age group and follows its own set of protocols. However, this does not mean that individuals outside this target demographic cannot receive help. Anyone outside the target group (younger than 45 or older than 75) who is experiencing symptoms can always visit their PCP for standard diagnostic testing.

The board of AZV continues to work closely with Fundacion ABO, HAVA, and the Ministry of Public Health and Elderly Care to optimize medical care for all AZV-insured individuals.

Contact and Information

• For more information about the preventive screening programs for breast cancer (BOB), cervical cancer (BOCA), or colorectal cancer (CORESA), please contact Fundacion ABO at 588-1212.
• If you are experiencing symptoms but do not fall within the target age group for the colorectal screening program (i.e., you are younger than 45 or older than 75), please contact your primary care physician (PCP) directly.
• For general questions about AZV insurance, please contact AZV at 527-9900.