Barium enemas

Barium enemas

Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance)

 covers this test if you’re age 50 or older. When this test is used instead of a flexible sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy, Medicare covers the test once every 48 months if you’re age 50 or older and once every 24 months if you’re at high risk for colorectal cancer.

Your costs in Original Medicare

You pay 20% of the 

Medicare-approved amount

 for your doctor’s services. In a 

Hospital outpatient setting

, you also pay a 

Copayment

. The Part B 

Deductible [glossary]

 doesn’t apply.

Note

To find out how much your test, item, or service will cost, talk to your doctor or health care provider. The specific amount you’ll owe may depend on several things, like:

  • Other insurance you may have
  • How much your doctor charges
  • Whether your doctor accepts assignment
  • The type of facility
  • Where you get your test, item, or service

Note

Your doctor or other health care provider may recommend you get services more often than Medicare covers. Or, they may recommend services that Medicare doesn’t cover. If this happens, you may have to pay some or all of the costs. Ask questions so you understand why your doctor is recommending certain services and whether Medicare will pay for them.

 

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