Flexible sigmoidoscopy screenings

Medicare covers flexible sigmoidoscopy screening once every 48 months for most people 50 or older. If you aren’t at high risk, Medicare covers this test 120 months after a previous screening colonoscopy.

Your costs in Original Medicare

You pay nothing if your doctor or other qualified health care provider accepts assignment . If you have a lesion or growth biopsied or removed during your screening, Medicare considers the procedure diagnostic and you may have to pay coinsurance and/or a copayment . In these cases, the Part B deductible 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
If 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 if, or how much, Medicare will pay for them.

What it is

Flexible sigmoidoscopy screenings examine the rectum and lower colon.