Colorectal Screening

How often is it covered?

• Fecal Occult Blood Test - Once every 12 months
• Flexible Sigmoidoscopy - Once every 48 months
• Screening Colonoscopy - Once every 24 months (if you're at high risk); once every 10 years, but not within 48 months of a screening sigmoidoscopy (if you're not at high risk)
• Barium Enema - Your doctor can decide to use this test instead of a flexible sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy. This test is covered every 24 months if you are at high risk for colorectal cancer and every 48 months if you aren't at high risk.

For whom?
All people with Medicare age 50 and older, except there is no minimum age for having a screening colonoscopy.

Your costs in the Original Medicare Plan?
You pay nothing for the fecal occult blood test. For all other screening tests, the coinsurance or copayment applies, but the Medicare Part B deductible is waived. However, if a screening test results in a biopsy or removal of a lesion or growth, the procedure is considered diagnostic and the deductible is applied. If the flexible sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy is done in a hospital outpatient department or ambulatory surgical center, you pay 25% of the Medicare-approved amount.

What factors increase risk for colorectal cancer?
Risk for colorectal cancer increases with age. It is important to continue with screening, even if you were screened before you entered Medicare.

Your risk for developing colorectal cancer may also increase if you…

• Have a diet high in fat, especially fat from animal sources
• Don't exercise
• Are overweight or obese
• Smoke

Have 2 or more alcoholic drinks every day