Colonoscopy screening is an important preventive service that can detect colorectal cancer early, when treatment is most effective. Medicare provides coverage for colonoscopies, but there are some important details to understand regarding when Medicare will cover the full cost of a colonoscopy screening versus when you may have to pay part of the cost. This article will walk through what you need to know about Medicare coverage for colon cancer screening.
What is a Colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a screening test that allows a doctor to examine the entire length of the colon and rectum using a thin, flexible, lighted tube called a colonoscope. During the procedure, the doctor is looking for any polyps or abnormal tissue growths that could indicate cancer or lead to cancer.
Polyps can be removed during the colonoscopy before they ever turn into cancer. Screening colonoscopies are recommended for anyone aged 45-75, and more frequently for those considered high risk due to family history or other factors.
Colorectal Cancer Screening Age Guidelines
The United States Preventive Services Task Force recommends colorectal cancer screening for all average-risk adults beginning at age 50. However, the American Cancer Society recommends that colorectal cancer screening begin at age 45 for average-risk adults.
Some medical professional organizations, such as the Multi-Society Task Force on Colorectal Cancer, recommend that screening begin at age 45 for African Americans, due to higher rates of colorectal cancer and mortality in this population. Those with a family history of colorectal cancer are often advised to begin screening earlier as well.
It’s important to discuss your risk factors with your doctor to determine the right time to begin colorectal cancer screening.
Medicare Coverage for Screening Colonoscopies
Original Medicare Part B covers colorectal cancer screening tests including colonoscopies for beneficiaries over 50. For those not considered high risk, Medicare covers:
- Fecal occult blood test or FIT: Every 12 months
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy: Every 4 years
- Colonoscopy: Every 10 years
Medicare covers these screening colonoscopy procedures at 100% as long as you go to a provider that accepts Medicare assignment. This means there is no deductible or copay for a Medicare-covered preventive screening colonoscopy.
However, if a polyp or other tissue is removed during the colonoscopy, the procedure is considered diagnostic rather than preventive screening. In that case, you may have to pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for the outpatient doctor services after you meet the Part B deductible.
Medicare Plan for Diagnostic Colonoscopies
If you have symptoms or are getting tested due to a history of colorectal cancer or polyps, Medicare considers that a diagnostic colonoscopy rather than a preventive screening. This includes colonoscopies to follow up on a previous exam that found a polyp.
For diagnostic colonoscopies, Medicare Part B covers 80% of the Medicare-approved amount for the procedure after you pay the Part B deductible. You will have to pay the remaining 20% coinsurance.
What if Medicare Considers my Colonoscopy “Diagnostic” and I Think it Should be “Screening”?
Sometimes there is confusion over whether a procedure should be billed as a screening or diagnostic colonoscopy. Your doctor determines how to bill Medicare based on your symptoms and medical history. But if your doctor bills your colonoscopy as “diagnostic” and you disagree, you have the right to appeal the decision and ask that it be covered as a preventive service.
Speak to your doctor or other healthcare provider if you think your colonoscopy should have been billed as “screening.” Ask them to provide documentation to Medicare showing it was performed for preventive screening purposes.
Should I Get a Colonoscopy?
Regular colon cancer screening improves overall survival and reduces your risk of developing colorectal cancer. Following the recommended screening guidelines is important for detecting cancer early and removing precancerous polyps before they become cancerous. Discuss your screening options and timing with your doctor based on your age, family history, and other risk factors.
While a colonoscopy is considered the “gold standard” for colorectal cancer screening, there are other effective options like FIT that Medicare covers annually. Talk to your doctor about which screening strategy is right for you.
What if I Have a Medicare Advantage or Other Insurance Plan?
If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan or other insurance along with Medicare, check with your plan to see how colonoscopy coverage may differ. Many plans offer enhanced preventive screening benefits compared to Original Medicare. Your out-of-pocket costs for a screening or diagnostic colonoscopy will depend on the specifics of your insurance plan.
For example, your Medicare Advantage Plan may offer $0 copays for a preventive colonoscopy but you may have to meet a deductible first if a polyp is removed. Always check with insurance anytime a procedure is scheduled to understand your potential costs and coverage details.
Can I Get a Colonoscopy if I’m Not on Medicare Yet?
If you want to get screened for colorectal cancer before age 50 when Medicare eligibility begins, most private insurance plans must cover preventive services like colonoscopy screening based on the Affordable Care Act. Guidelines have been updated to recommend screening beginning at age 45, so colonoscopies should be covered by private plans at that age. Individual plan benefits will determine any out-of-pocket costs.
In Summary
Colonoscopy screening provides a preventive strategy to detect colorectal cancer early or even prevent cancer by removing polyps. Medicare provides coverage for colon cancer screening beginning at age 50 or 45 based on individual risk. There are specific guidelines regarding Medicare coverage for screening versus diagnostic colonoscopy procedures.
Always understand whether your colonoscopy has been coded as “screening” or “diagnostic” as that affects how much of the cost Medicare will cover. Talk to your providers beforehand if you have any questions about colonoscopy coverage or recommendations for when you should begin screening.
We’re Here to Help
You do not have to spend hours reading articles on the internet to get answers to your Medicare questions. Give the licensed insurance agents at Manatee Insurance Solutions a Call at (352) 221-3779. You will get the answers you seek in a matter of minutes, with no pressure and no sales pitch. We are truly here to help.
