Many people are unaware that, thanks to the Affordable Care Act, most health insurance plans cover colonoscopies without charging patients out-of-pocket.
Some insurance companies have recently changed their policies to require patients to pay a cost share for colonoscopies that result in polyp removal. This shift is due to inconsistent definitions of “screening” services by insurers and non-standard billing code practices among participating providers.
What is a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a medical test that examines the lining of your colon (large intestine). Your doctor inserts a long, thin tube with a camera and light on one end into your anus region and then into your rectum and colon.
Colonoscopy can also be used to screen for colorectal cancer, the second most common type in America. If your doctor detects anything suspicious, they can extract (biopsied) and check in a laboratory to see if it’s cancerous.
The procedure is generally safe and rarely causes pain. Your doctor may give you a sedative to help relax you and minimize any discomfort that occurs during the procedure.
Before the procedure, you will need to alter your diet and cleanse out your bowels. This will make it simpler for the doctor to inspect inside of your intestine during examination.
What is a screening colonoscopy?
Screening colonoscopies are preventive tests that can detect signs of colon cancer. They’re recommended for people 45 and older as the best way to catch colon cancer before symptoms manifest.
Screening colonoscopies provide your doctor with a close-up view of the inside of your colon and rectum, using a flexible tube with camera attached. They may also take tissue samples (biopsies) to detect any suspicious growths or anomalies.
If polyps are detected, they must be surgically removed and sent for testing in a laboratory.
Fecal immunochemical tests or fecal occult blood tests can also be used as part of screening to detect any polyps or cancer in stool. These tests require less invasive options than traditional colonoscopies and provide results faster.
What is a preventative colonoscopy?
Preventative colonoscopy is a screening test that can detect early signs of colon cancer and remove polyps or growths to keep them from becoming cancerous. It’s an efficient, safe, and cost-effective way to keep you healthy.
It is recommended that all adults receive a screening colonoscopy at least every 10 years.
During this procedure, your doctor will insert a flexible tube into your rectum and through the length of your large intestine (colon). Once advanced to its end, it can then be withdrawn so that they can examine all areas of the colon for any anomalies they might detect.
During the test, your doctor can remove any polyps or growths found and take a sample of tissue for laboratory analysis – known as a biopsy. This is considered the most crucial aspect of the procedure and many insurance companies cover it.
What is a diagnostic colonoscopy?
A diagnostic colonoscopy is a medical test your doctor can perform to help them diagnose and treat an illness. It could be used to detect polyps (growths) or other potential cancer-causing issues.
Screening colonoscopies are usually recommended for people 45 years of age or older who do not experience gastrointestinal symptoms and who are at average risk for colorectal cancer. These tests provide baseline information that allows subsequent colonoscopies to be compared and detected early when cancerous growths have a better chance of surviving.
Preparing for a diagnostic colonoscopy involves eating a low-fiber diet and taking a laxative bowel preparation in the two days prior to your appointment. Your doctor will discuss these steps with you in detail and offer more specific advice.