Coshocton native promotes cancer screenings

The Coshocton Public Health District is continuing its informational series on local doctors with Jody Roach, APRN, CNP. She is with GMG Digestive Disease Coshocton, and her specialty is gastroenterology. Call Roach at 740-722-9569.

"I have been with Genesis for over 20 years, and when the new facility opened, I wanted to come back to where I was born and raised to care for Coshocton County," she said.

Roach said colon cancer is one of the most detected cancers by getting a colonoscopy starting at the age of 45.

"Everyone should get and stay up to date with their doctors to keep up on routine physicals and immunizations," she said.

She said one barrier to care in Coshocton County is transportation.

"Transportation seems to be an issue I see often, especially on the scope procedure days if patients don’t have family or friends to get them home," Roach said.

One piece of health advice she has for people is to complete health screenings such as colonoscopies, mammograms and prostate screenings.

"Most are covered by insurances, and if you do not have insurance, there are options for assistance," Roach said.