A colonoscopy is a very important screening that helps prevent colorectal cancer. Some people avoid taking the test for many reasons.  For example, they are scared the test will hurt, they don’t have symptoms, or don’t want to prepare for the screening by going on a liquid diet and taking strong laxatives to get the colon all cleaned out so that the doctor can check it for any unusual growths. Most importantly, many people avoid taking the test because they think it is too expensive and don’t have health insurance.

The good news is that there are organizations and programs throughout New York City that offer colonoscopies at low-cost, or even for free! To get the most updated information on such organizations or programs you may dial 311, a main source of government information and non-emergency services. Some of these places in the Upper and Northern Manhattan areas include:

• Harlem Hospital Center: They are open from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Mondays through Fridays. To set an appointment, call 212-939-8226. For more information, visit.

• Metropolitan Hospital Center: They are open from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Mondays through Fridays. To set an appointment, call 212-423-6491. For more information, visit here.

• La Clinica del Barrio: This clinic also known as the Metropolitan Hospital Family Health Center is open from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Mondays through Thursdays, from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Fridays, and 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. on Saturdays. To set an appointment, call 212-410-7940. They take Saturday appointments too. For more information, visit here.

• New York State Cancer Services Program at Columbia University: For more information, you must contact the program by calling 866-442-2262 or the alternate number, 212-851-4516, or emailing canserv@health.state.ny.us.

• The Ralph Lauren Center

• Mt. Sinai Hospital: You can schedule an appointment at 800-637-4624.