Private Insurers Must Cover Follow-Up Colonoscopies
February 7, 2022Private insurers are now required to cover the cost of follow-up colonoscopies after a positive stool-based test, according to updated guidance from the Biden administration cited in a press release from the American Gastroenterology Association.
By adding colonoscopies following positive stool tests to that list, the updated guidance means that all aspects of the screening procedure are now covered without cost sharing.
In May 2021, an update to the USPSTF recommendations called for a follow-up colonoscopy in the wake of a positive test: “Positive results on stool-based screening tests require follow-up with colonoscopy for the screening benefits to be achieved.” The 2021 update also extended the screening recommendation to adults aged 45-49 years with a “B” rating.
Private insurers must now pay for follow-up colonoscopy as needed in addition to the initial noninvasive screening, according to the guidance.