Multi-target stool DNA tests (screening)
Medicare covers at-home multi-target stool DNA tests, if you’re eligible
Description
Multi-target stool DNA screening tests use stool samples to look for signs of colon cancer.
Who's eligible
You’re eligible if you meet all of these conditions:
- You’re between 45-85.
- You show no symptoms of colorectal disease including, but not limited to:
- Lower gastrointestinal pain
- Blood in stool
- Positive guaiac fecal occult blood test or fecal immunochemical test
- You’re at average risk for developing colorectal cancer, meaning:
- You have no personal history of adenomatous polyps, colorectal cancer, or inflammatory bowel disease (including Crohn’s Disease and ulcerative colitis).
- You have no family history of colorectal cancers or adenomatous polyps, familial adenomatous polyposis, or hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer.
Costs
- You pay nothing for these tests if your doctor or other health care provider accepts assignment .
- If you get a positive result after a multi-target stool DNA screening test, Medicare also covers a follow-up colonoscopy as a screening test.
How often
Every 3 years.