Fecal occult blood tests (screening)
Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers fecal occult blood tests if you’re eligible
Description
Fecal occult blood screening tests can help find cancer early, when treatment is most effective.
Coverage details
Part B covers fecal occult blood tests if you get a referral from your doctor, physician assistant, nurse practitioner, or clinical nurse specialist.
Who's eligible
You must be 45 or older. If you’re under 45, Medicare doesn’t cover fecal occult blood tests.
Costs
- You pay nothing for the test if your doctor or other health care provider accepts assignment .
- If you get a positive result after a fecal occult blood screening test, Medicare also covers a follow-up colonoscopy as a screening test.
How often
Once every 12 months.
Ask your doctor or healthcare provider how much your test, item, or service will cost.
Your doctor may recommend services that Medicare does not cover or offers too frequently. This could end up in additional costs for you. Make sure to ask your doctor about the reasons for these recommendations and what Medicare will actually cover.
Specific amounts you could owe depend on:
Other insurance you may have
How much your doctor charges
If your doctor accepts assignment
The type of facility
Where you get your test, item, or service