4-minute readPublished 03/28/2024Updated 01:14 PM EST, 11/20/2025
Yes, Medicare does cover a colonoscopy.
And that’s a good thing. Because here in the United States, colorectal cancer is the fourth-leading cause of cancer-related deaths.1
Medicare will usually cover 100% of the cost of a screening colonoscopy. For a diagnostic colonoscopy, you’ll likely have out-of-pocket copays, but don’t let potential costs keep you from protecting your health.
A screening colonoscopy is an exam that lets a doctor view the inside of the colon and rectum to check for abnormalities or other signs of disease. The procedure may be performed in a hospital or in an outpatient surgical center.
The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends people who are at average risk for colorectal cancer begin getting screened at age 45.
If you have a strong family history of colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease or other risk factors, talk to your healthcare provider about your best screening options.
Medicare Advantage plans help expand your Medicare coverage beyond Original Medicare, often with extra benefits. Explore Humana’s Medicare Advantage plans in your area today!
4-minute readPublished 03/28/2024Updated 01:14 PM EST, 11/20/2025
Medicare Part B (medical insurance) completely covers a colonoscopy screening once every 24 months for members at high risk for colorectal cancer. For others, Medicare covers the test once every 120 months or 48 months after a flexible sigmoidoscopy, another type of screening exam.
Without insurance? The average cost for a colonoscopy can be as high as $4,350.3
Bottom line? Don’t be shy! Talk to your doctor or healthcare provider before a screening colonoscopy to find out if you should expect any out-of-pocket costs.
Diagnostic colonoscopies are when a polyp or other tissue has been found or removed. Since it’s no longer considered to be a preventive procedure, Part B will cover some of the cost, but not 100%.
For example, you may have to pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount of your doctor’s services. Also, you’ll likely have a separate copay for the hospital or outpatient facility that performs the procedure.
If you have a Medicare Advantage plan , you may have additional coverage for diagnostic colonoscopies. Check your plan’s Summary of Benefits to see what’s covered.
The day before
Your doctor will give you a laxative to help clear your bowels. This may be in liquid or pill form. You’ll want to avoid eating solid foods the day before your procedure. Try to stick to clear liquids if you can. After midnight, don’t eat or drink anything until after your colonoscopy is over.
The day of
You’ll be lightly sedated during the procedure, so you’ll probably be groggy afterwards. Plan to have someone with you to drive you home.
During the procedure
The procedure should take around 30–60 minutes. While you’re asleep, the doctor will place a tube inside your rectum and up into your colon. Air blown through the tube widens your colon to make it easier to inspect. Your doctor will look for any polyps or other unusual growths.
After the procedure
You’ll have time to rest in the recovery room while the sedation begins to wear off. If your doctor finds anything unusual during the procedure, he or she will talk to you about next steps and discuss options for treatment.
It’s normal to have mild cramps or a little blood in your first stool after your colonoscopy. If the bleeding seems excessive or you’re having a lot of belly pain, call your doctor.
A colonoscopy may help detect any signs of disease before it’s too late to treat.
While preventive care may take a little time, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Regular colonoscopy screenings may help detect polyps or other growths that could lead to cancer. That’s a small price to pay for peace of mind.
Medicare covers a colonoscopy once every 120 months (10 years) or 48 months after a previous sigmoidoscopy, another type of screening. If you have a high risk of colorectal cancer, Medicare will cover a screening colonoscopy once every 24 months.
Yes, Medicare covers anesthesia for a colonoscopy.
A screening colonoscopy checks for issues before symptoms appear, while a diagnostic colonoscopy investigates symptoms or abnormal findings.
4-minute read
2-minute read
4-minute read
Licensed Humana sales agents are available daily, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
1-888-204-4062 (TTY: 711)
Enter your ZIP code below to see plans with their premiums, copays, and participating doctors and pharmacies.
Our licensed Humana sales agents are available to help you select the coverage that best meets your needs.
