Does Medicare Cover Cologuard and Colonoscopy in 2026? Coverage, Costs and Eligibility

"Medicare covers Cologuard every three years and follow-up colonoscopy after a positive result, often at no cost for eligible beneficiaries."

Illustration. A doctor explains cancer examination and treatment to a patient at a hospital.

If you have Medicare and are deciding between Cologuard and colonoscopy, one of the most important questions is how much you will have to pay.

The good news is that Medicare Part B covers several colorectal cancer screening tests for eligible beneficiaries.

That includes:

• multi-target stool DNA testing such as Cologuard;

• screening colonoscopy;

• fecal occult blood testing;

• flexible sigmoidoscopy;

• CT colonography;

• and certain blood-based colorectal cancer screening tests.

For eligible beneficiaries, Medicare generally covers an at-home multi-target stool DNA test every three years with no out-of-pocket cost when the provider accepts assignment.

Medicare also covers a follow-up colonoscopy after a positive covered multi-target stool DNA screening test as part of the complete colorectal cancer screening process.

That distinction is important because a positive Cologuard result does not mean the patient has to pay for an entirely separate diagnostic pathway under current Medicare screening rules.

Medicare's current guidance says the follow-up colonoscopy after a positive multi-target stool DNA screening test is covered as a screening service when applicable requirements are met.

Medical information: This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical or insurance advice. Medicare coverage depends on eligibility, the type of test, provider participation, medical circumstances and current Medicare rules.

Does Medicare Cover Cologuard in 2026?

Yes.

Medicare Part B covers eligible multi-target stool DNA screening tests, including tests such as Cologuard, once every three years.

To qualify, Medicare currently requires that the beneficiary:

• be between ages 45 and 85;

• have no symptoms of colorectal disease;

• be at average risk for colorectal cancer;

• and meet Medicare's other eligibility requirements.

Medicare says eligible beneficiaries pay nothing for the test when the doctor or healthcare provider accepts assignment.

How Often Does Medicare Cover Cologuard?

Medicare covers eligible multi-target stool DNA screening once every three years.

This means that Medicare does not generally cover Cologuard every year.

The three-year interval applies to the Medicare screening benefit for eligible beneficiaries.

If your healthcare professional recommends testing more frequently because of a medical circumstance, do not assume Medicare will automatically cover the additional test under the standard preventive screening benefit.

Ask your healthcare provider and Medicare plan about the specific situation.

How Old Do You Have to Be for Medicare Cologuard Coverage?

For the multi-target stool DNA screening benefit, Medicare currently lists an eligibility range of 45 through 85.

You must also meet the other requirements for average-risk screening.

This is important because Medicare's eligibility age for Cologuard is not simply tied to the age at which someone becomes eligible for Medicare.

A Medicare beneficiary who is younger than 65 because of disability can potentially qualify for colorectal cancer screening if the applicable Medicare screening requirements are met.

Is Cologuard Free With Medicare?

For eligible beneficiaries, Medicare says you pay nothing for the covered multi-target stool DNA screening test when your doctor or other healthcare provider accepts assignment.

That means an eligible beneficiary generally does not have a Part B deductible or coinsurance amount for the covered Cologuard screening itself.

However, patients should distinguish the cost of the initial stool test from the cost of follow-up care.

If the Cologuard result is positive, Medicare also covers the follow-up colonoscopy as a screening service under its current complete-screening rules.

Does Medicare Cover a Colonoscopy After Positive Cologuard?

Yes.

This is one of the most important Medicare colorectal screening rules to understand in 2026.

Medicare states that if an eligible beneficiary receives a positive result from a covered multi-target stool DNA screening test, Medicare also covers the follow-up colonoscopy as a screening test.

CMS expanded the definition of a complete colorectal cancer screening to include a follow-on screening colonoscopy after a positive Medicare-covered non-invasive stool-based colorectal cancer screening test.

CMS explains that the stool test and follow-up colonoscopy are considered part of a continuum of complete colorectal cancer screening.

This policy is important because a patient should not assume that a positive Cologuard automatically turns the follow-up colonoscopy into a separately billed diagnostic procedure under Medicare.

Is the Follow-Up Colonoscopy Free After Positive Cologuard?

Under Medicare's complete colorectal cancer screening policy, beneficiary cost-sharing does not apply to the follow-up screening colonoscopy after a Medicare-covered non-invasive stool-based colorectal cancer screening test has a positive result, when the applicable requirements are met.

However, there is an important distinction.

If the colonoscopy becomes a procedure involving removal of a polyp or other tissue, Medicare's cost-sharing rules can change.

Medicare's 2026 materials state that if a doctor finds and removes a polyp or other tissue during a screening colonoscopy, the patient generally pays 15% of the Medicare-approved amount for the physician services, and in a hospital outpatient setting may also owe 15% coinsurance for the hospital services.

So:

Screening colonoscopy with no tissue removal

may have no beneficiary cost-sharing when Medicare requirements are met.

But:

Polyp or tissue removal

can trigger Medicare cost-sharing.

Does Medicare Cover a Screening Colonoscopy?

Yes.

Medicare Part B covers screening colonoscopy for eligible beneficiaries.

One important difference from Cologuard is that Medicare's screening colonoscopy benefit does not have the same minimum age restriction.

Medicare states that there is no minimum age for a Medicare-covered screening colonoscopy, although other eligibility and frequency rules apply.

For an average-risk beneficiary, Medicare's screening colonoscopy benefit is generally available at the applicable interval.

The procedure can also be used in the complete colorectal screening pathway after certain positive non-invasive screening tests.

How Often Does Medicare Cover Screening Colonoscopy?

The standard Medicare screening interval for an average-risk beneficiary depends on the individual's circumstances and previous screening history.

Medicare's preventive benefits distinguish colonoscopy from stool-based tests and other screening methods.

For many average-risk beneficiaries, screening colonoscopy is generally covered at a 10-year interval when the applicable requirements are met.

However, Medicare's complete-screening policy also provides an important exception for follow-up colonoscopy after a positive covered non-invasive colorectal cancer screening test.

CMS says the normal frequency limitation does not apply to the follow-on screening colonoscopy in that complete-screening situation.

What Happens If You Had Cologuard Recently and Want a Colonoscopy?

The answer depends on why you want the colonoscopy.

If your Cologuard result was positive, Medicare has a specific complete-screening pathway that can cover the follow-up colonoscopy.

If your Cologuard result was negative and you simply want to switch to colonoscopy before the normal screening interval, Medicare's coverage rules may be different.

Do not assume that Medicare will automatically cover a second screening method immediately after another negative screening test.

Ask your healthcare professional why the colonoscopy is being recommended and how it will be billed.

Does Medicare Cover Cologuard if You Have Symptoms?

The standard Medicare Cologuard screening benefit is intended for people without symptoms of colorectal disease.

Medicare's eligibility requirements specifically exclude people with symptoms such as:

• lower gastrointestinal pain;

• blood in the stool;

• or a positive guaiac fecal occult blood test or FIT.

The test is also intended for people at average risk.

If you have symptoms, your healthcare professional may recommend diagnostic evaluation rather than routine stool-based screening.

This distinction is important.

A screening test is designed for people who do not have a known symptom or abnormality requiring diagnostic evaluation.

Does Medicare Cover Cologuard for High-Risk Patients?

The standard Medicare multi-target stool DNA screening benefit is for people at average risk.

Medicare's current eligibility definition excludes certain people with:

• a personal history of adenomatous polyps;

• colorectal cancer;

• inflammatory bowel disease;

• or certain family histories of colorectal cancer or adenomatous polyps.

If you have a higher-than-average risk, your healthcare professional may recommend a different screening or surveillance strategy.

Do not assume that Cologuard is appropriate simply because Medicare covers it for average-risk beneficiaries.

Does Medicare Cover Cologuard Every Three Years After a Negative Result?

Yes, when the beneficiary remains eligible and the applicable Medicare requirements are met.

The standard Medicare interval is:

Negative Cologuard → repeat screening after 3 years.

The three-year interval applies to the covered multi-target stool DNA screening benefit.

A negative Cologuard result does not mean colorectal cancer screening is permanently finished.

Continued screening remains important while the person remains an appropriate candidate.

Does Medicare Cover Colonoscopy After a Positive FIT?

Yes.

CMS's complete colorectal cancer screening policy also includes a follow-on screening colonoscopy after a Medicare-covered non-invasive stool-based screening test returns positive.

This includes covered stool-based tests such as fecal immunochemical testing and multi-target stool DNA testing.

The purpose of the policy is to ensure that the follow-up colonoscopy is treated as part of the complete screening pathway rather than creating a financial barrier after an abnormal non-invasive test.

What If a Blood-Based Colorectal Cancer Screening Test Is Positive?

Medicare's colorectal cancer screening policy has expanded beyond stool-based tests.

CMS updated its national coverage determination in 2026 to recognize certain non-invasive biomarker screening tests for colorectal cancer when specific criteria are met.

CMS states that effective June 8, 2026, qualifying non-invasive biomarker tests can be covered colorectal cancer screening tests under the applicable Medicare rules.

CMS also treats a follow-on screening colonoscopy after a positive covered non-invasive screening test as part of the complete colorectal cancer screening pathway when the applicable requirements are met.

This is an important 2026 development because Medicare's colorectal screening coverage is no longer limited to the older stool and visual-test categories.

Does Medicare Cover Blood-Based Colorectal Cancer Screening?

Yes, for qualifying tests and eligible beneficiaries under Medicare's current rules.

Medicare's preventive-services materials list blood-based biomarker colorectal cancer screening among covered screening options for eligible people.

The current Medicare guidance generally provides coverage for eligible beneficiaries ages 45 through 85 who are asymptomatic and at average risk, with testing covered once every three years when the applicable requirements are met.

However, not every blood test marketed for cancer detection is automatically covered.

The test must meet Medicare's coverage requirements.

Does Medicare Cover CT Colonography?

Yes.

Medicare's colorectal cancer screening benefits include CT colonography under specified eligibility and frequency rules.

For people at high risk, Medicare's current preventive-services information says CT colonography can be covered once every 24 months.

For people who are not at high risk, Medicare generally covers it once every 60 months, subject to the applicable requirements.

This gives Medicare beneficiaries another non-invasive alternative to traditional colonoscopy.

However, an abnormal CT colonography may still require colonoscopy for further evaluation or treatment.

Does Medicare Cover FIT?

Yes.

Medicare covers fecal occult blood testing for eligible beneficiaries as part of colorectal cancer screening.

Medicare's current guidance states that fecal occult blood testing is covered once every 12 months for eligible people age 45 and older.

FIT is commonly used as an annual stool-based screening test.

As with other non-colonoscopy screening tests, a positive result can lead to follow-up colonoscopy.

What Does Medicare Pay for a Screening Colonoscopy?

Medicare payment amounts are different from the cash price charged to an uninsured patient.

If the colonoscopy qualifies as a covered preventive screening service and the provider accepts assignment, Medicare generally covers the screening service without beneficiary cost-sharing.

But if the doctor finds and removes a polyp or other tissue, Medicare's cost-sharing rules can apply.

Medicare's 2026 information states that the patient generally pays 15% of the Medicare-approved amount for the doctor's services in this situation, and in a hospital outpatient setting the patient may also owe 15% coinsurance for the hospital services.

Why Can You Owe Money for a "Screening" Colonoscopy?

This can be confusing.

A patient may schedule a colonoscopy as a preventive screening test and still receive a bill if tissue is removed.

The reason is that Medicare treats certain services differently once the procedure includes additional intervention.

For example:

Screening colonoscopy

→ no polyp or tissue removal

→ generally no beneficiary cost-sharing when applicable requirements are met.

Screening colonoscopy with polyp removal

→ additional procedure/tissue removal

→ Medicare cost-sharing can apply.

This is why patients should ask the provider how the procedure will be billed if a polyp is found.

Does the Medicare Part B Deductible Apply to Screening Colonoscopy?

For covered preventive screening colonoscopy, Medicare's current preventive-service guidance states that the Part B deductible does not apply.

However, cost-sharing can apply when a polyp or other tissue is removed.

Medicare's 2026 materials specifically describe 15% coinsurance in that situation.

The exact amount a beneficiary owes can also depend on where the procedure is performed and whether other insurance coverage is available.

Does Medicare Advantage Cover Cologuard and Colonoscopy?

Medicare Advantage plans must cover Medicare-covered preventive services, but the plan may have its own network and administrative requirements.

That means a Medicare Advantage beneficiary should check:

• whether the provider is in network;

• whether prior authorization is required;

• where the colonoscopy can be performed;

• and whether the plan has additional rules for scheduling.

Do not assume that Original Medicare and every Medicare Advantage plan operate identically from the patient's perspective.

Before scheduling, contact the plan or use its provider directory to confirm the current requirements.

Does Medicare Advantage Cover Follow-Up Colonoscopy After Positive Cologuard?

Medicare Advantage plans must cover Medicare-covered preventive services, but beneficiaries should verify the plan's network and administrative requirements.

If a Medicare Advantage plan tells you that a follow-up colonoscopy is not covered, ask the plan to explain how it is classifying the service and whether the procedure is being treated as part of a Medicare-covered complete colorectal cancer screening pathway.

Keep the Cologuard result and the healthcare provider's order or recommendation.

Those documents can help clarify why the colonoscopy is being performed.

Can You Use Cologuard and Colonoscopy in the Same Year?

Sometimes, but it depends on the circumstances.

If Cologuard is positive, Medicare's complete colorectal cancer screening policy specifically allows the follow-up colonoscopy as part of the screening pathway.

But if Cologuard is negative and you simply want a colonoscopy shortly afterward, Medicare's standard frequency rules may apply.

The reason for the colonoscopy matters.

That is why you should ask:

"Is this colonoscopy being performed as follow-up to a positive colorectal cancer screening test, or as a separate screening procedure?"

What If Your Colonoscopy Finds a Polyp?

This is one of the most important Medicare cost questions.

If a polyp or other tissue is found and removed during a screening colonoscopy, Medicare says you may owe 15% coinsurance for the physician's services and, in a hospital outpatient setting or ambulatory surgical center, 15% coinsurance for applicable facility services.

The Part B deductible does not apply to the covered screening service.

Your exact cost can depend on:

• where the procedure occurs;

• the Medicare-approved amount;

• whether the provider accepts assignment;

• and whether you have supplemental coverage.

What If You Have Medigap?

Medigap policies can help pay certain Medicare cost-sharing amounts.

The exact benefit depends on the Medigap plan.

For example, a supplemental plan may help with coinsurance that Original Medicare leaves to the beneficiary.

If you have Medigap, check your specific plan before assuming that you will owe the full 15% coinsurance associated with a procedure involving tissue removal.

What If You Have Medicaid Along With Medicare?

Some beneficiaries qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid.

In that situation, Medicaid may help with certain Medicare cost-sharing amounts depending on the person's eligibility and state Medicaid program.

The exact rules vary.

If you are dual eligible, ask your Medicare and Medicaid plans how colorectal cancer screening and any follow-up procedure will be coordinated.

Does Medicare Cover Cologuard If You Have a Family History?

The standard multi-target stool DNA screening benefit is intended for average-risk beneficiaries.

Medicare's current eligibility requirements specifically exclude certain family histories of colorectal cancer or adenomatous polyps from the average-risk category.

That does not mean you cannot receive colorectal cancer screening.

It means your healthcare professional may need to use a different screening strategy.

If you have a family history, tell your healthcare professional before ordering Cologuard.

Does Medicare Cover Cologuard If You Previously Had Polyps?

The standard Medicare Cologuard screening benefit is for average-risk beneficiaries and excludes people with a personal history of adenomatous polyps.

Someone with previous polyps may require surveillance colonoscopy instead.

The appropriate test and interval depend on the previous pathology and the individual's risk.

Do not use the standard three-year Cologuard interval as a substitute for a surveillance plan after previous polyps.

Does Medicare Cover Colonoscopy for High-Risk Patients?

Yes, Medicare covers colonoscopy for eligible screening and diagnostic circumstances, including certain higher-risk situations.

The frequency and coverage rules can differ from those for average-risk screening.

Someone with:

• previous polyps;

• previous colorectal cancer;

• inflammatory bowel disease;

• or significant family history

may require more frequent colonoscopy.

The exact interval should be determined by the healthcare professional based on the individual's history.

Does Medicare Cover Colonoscopy for Colorectal Cancer Symptoms?

A colonoscopy can be medically necessary for diagnostic evaluation when a person has symptoms or another medical indication.

However, diagnostic services are not necessarily subject to the same cost-sharing rules as preventive screening.

Symptoms such as:

• rectal bleeding;

• persistent changes in bowel habits;

• unexplained anemia;

• abdominal symptoms;

• or unexplained weight loss

may require diagnostic evaluation rather than routine screening.

Your provider should explain whether the procedure is being ordered as screening or diagnostic care.

Cologuard vs Colonoscopy: Medicare Coverage Comparison

Medicare coverage is subject to eligibility and current program rules.

Does Medicare Cover Cologuard Plus?

Medicare's benefit is based on the covered category of multi-target stool DNA testing, rather than simply the brand name.

If a test meets Medicare's coverage requirements and is authorized for colorectal cancer screening, it can fall within the applicable Medicare screening benefit.

Patients should therefore distinguish between:

FDA authorization

and

Medicare coverage.

FDA authorization does not automatically mean that every version of a test is covered in every circumstance.

Check Medicare's current coverage rules and the specific test being ordered.

Is Cologuard Better Than Colonoscopy for Medicare Patients?

There is no universal answer.

For an average-risk Medicare beneficiary who wants an at-home test, Cologuard can be attractive because:

• it is non-invasive;

• it is performed at home;

• it is covered every three years when eligible;

• and Medicare covers the follow-up colonoscopy after a positive result under the complete-screening policy.

Colonoscopy may be attractive because:

• it directly examines the colon;

• doctors can remove many polyps during the procedure;

• and average-risk screening may not need to be repeated for 10 years when the examination is normal and the interval is appropriate.

The best choice depends on risk, medical history, preferences and willingness to complete the screening pathway.

Is Medicare Coverage the Same as "Free"?

Not always.

For eligible preventive screening, Medicare can provide coverage with no beneficiary cost-sharing.

But additional services can create costs.

For example:

Screening Cologuard

→ generally $0 if eligible and provider accepts assignment.

Screening colonoscopy

→ generally $0 when covered and requirements are met.

Polyp removal during colonoscopy

→ 15% coinsurance can apply.

Diagnostic colonoscopy

→ different Medicare cost-sharing rules may apply.

That is why "Medicare covers it" does not always mean "every related service is free."

What Should You Ask Medicare Before a Colonoscopy?

If you want to avoid unexpected costs, ask:

1. Is this colonoscopy being billed as screening or diagnostic?

2. Is it follow-up to a positive Cologuard or FIT?

3. Does the complete colorectal cancer screening policy apply?

4. Is the facility Medicare-approved?

5. Does the provider accept assignment?

6. What happens financially if a polyp is removed?

7. Is the procedure being performed in a hospital outpatient department or ambulatory surgery center?

8. Do I have supplemental coverage that may cover my coinsurance?

9. If I have Medicare Advantage, is the facility in network?

10. Is prior authorization required?

These questions can clarify both medical and financial expectations.

What Should You Ask Your Doctor Before Choosing Cologuard?

Ask:

1. Am I average risk?

2. Do I have any history that makes Cologuard inappropriate?

3. Is Cologuard appropriate for me at my current age?

4. What happens if the result is positive?

5. Will Medicare cover the follow-up colonoscopy?

6. How often will I need to repeat the test?

7. Would colonoscopy be a better option for my medical history?

8. Do I have symptoms that require diagnostic evaluation instead of screening?

What Happens if You Get a Positive Cologuard and Do Nothing?

A positive Cologuard result should not simply be ignored.

The purpose of the test is to identify people who need additional evaluation.

Medicare's complete colorectal cancer screening policy specifically supports follow-up colonoscopy after a positive covered stool-based screening test.

If the test is positive, contact your healthcare professional promptly and ask about scheduling the follow-up colonoscopy.

Do not simply repeat Cologuard instead of completing the recommended follow-up.

Medicare Cologuard and Colonoscopy: Common Mistakes

Mistake 1: Assuming every Cologuard test is covered

Medicare coverage depends on age, risk status, symptoms and other requirements.

Mistake 2: Assuming a positive Cologuard automatically means a diagnostic colonoscopy

Under Medicare's complete-screening policy, a follow-up colonoscopy after a positive covered non-invasive stool-based screening test can be covered as a screening service.

Mistake 3: Assuming every colonoscopy is free

Polyp removal or other services can result in cost-sharing.

Mistake 4: Ignoring network rules under Medicare Advantage

A provider or facility may need to be in network.

Mistake 5: Using Cologuard despite a high-risk history

The standard Medicare stool DNA benefit is intended for average-risk beneficiaries.

Mistake 6: Treating screening and diagnostic care as the same

They can have different coverage and cost-sharing rules.

Medicare Colorectal Cancer Screening in 2026: Quick Guide

Coverage depends on Medicare eligibility and the specific circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Medicare cover Cologuard in 2026?

Yes. Medicare Part B covers eligible multi-target stool DNA screening every three years for beneficiaries ages 45 through 85 who meet the applicable average-risk and symptom requirements.

Is Cologuard free with Medicare?

For eligible beneficiaries, Medicare says there is no cost for the covered test when the provider accepts assignment.

Does Medicare cover colonoscopy?

Yes. Medicare covers screening colonoscopy under its preventive benefits.

Is screening colonoscopy free with Medicare?

Generally, eligible beneficiaries pay nothing for a covered screening colonoscopy when the provider accepts assignment. Cost-sharing can apply if a polyp or other tissue is removed.

Does Medicare cover colonoscopy after positive Cologuard?

Yes. Medicare states that the follow-up colonoscopy after a positive multi-target stool DNA screening test is covered as a screening service when the applicable requirements are met.

How often does Medicare cover Cologuard?

Every three years for eligible beneficiaries.

How old do you have to be for Medicare Cologuard?

The current Medicare eligibility range is 45 through 85, along with the other average-risk and symptom requirements.

What if a polyp is removed during a Medicare screening colonoscopy?

Medicare says you may owe 15% coinsurance for the physician's services and, in a hospital outpatient setting or ambulatory surgical center, 15% for applicable facility services.

Does Medicare cover Cologuard if I have a family history of colorectal cancer?

The standard multi-target stool DNA screening benefit is intended for average-risk beneficiaries and excludes certain family histories. Ask your healthcare professional about the appropriate screening strategy.

Does Medicare cover Cologuard if I previously had polyps?

The standard Cologuard screening benefit is for average-risk beneficiaries. A history of adenomatous polyps can place someone outside that category and may require surveillance colonoscopy instead.

Does Medicare cover blood-based colorectal cancer screening?

Medicare now covers qualifying blood-based colorectal cancer screening tests under specified requirements. CMS updated its national coverage policy in 2026.

Does Medicare cover CT colonography?

Yes, under specified eligibility and frequency rules.

Can I use Cologuard and colonoscopy in the same year?

A follow-up colonoscopy after a positive covered stool-based screening test can be covered as part of complete colorectal cancer screening. A separate colonoscopy after a negative screening test may be subject to different frequency rules.

The Bottom Line

Medicare covers several colorectal cancer screening options in 2026, including Cologuard, colonoscopy, FIT, CT colonography, flexible sigmoidoscopy and certain blood-based screening tests.

For eligible beneficiaries, Medicare Part B covers multi-target stool DNA testing such as Cologuard every three years, generally with no cost when the provider accepts assignment.

The most important rule to understand is what happens after a positive Cologuard result.

Positive Cologuard → follow-up colonoscopy.

Under Medicare's complete colorectal cancer screening policy, that follow-up colonoscopy can be covered as a screening service rather than automatically being treated as a separate diagnostic colonoscopy.

However, Medicare cost-sharing can apply if the colonoscopy involves removal of a polyp or other tissue.

For that reason, Medicare beneficiaries should not think only in terms of:

"Does Medicare cover my colonoscopy?"

A better question is:

"How will Medicare classify this colonoscopy, and what happens if a polyp is removed?"

For an average-risk beneficiary who wants an at-home option, Cologuard can be a practical screening strategy.

For someone who wants direct visualization and the ability to remove many polyps during the same examination, colonoscopy may be preferable.

Neither option is automatically right for everyone.

The appropriate choice depends on age, risk level, symptoms, previous polyps, family history, medical history and personal preference.

If you are eligible for Medicare and have not been screened for colorectal cancer, discuss the available options with your healthcare professional rather than waiting for symptoms to appear.

Official Medical Sources

This article was fact-checked against:

• Medicare.gov

• Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)

• Medicare's 2026 benefits materials

• CMS National Coverage Determination for Colorectal Cancer Screening Tests

• CMS guidance on complete colorectal cancer screening

• CMS 2026 coverage decision for non-invasive colorectal cancer biomarker tests

Key points reviewed:

• Medicare Part B covers eligible multi-target stool DNA screening every three years.

• Medicare's standard Cologuard eligibility range is ages 45–85 with additional average-risk and symptom requirements.

• Medicare covers follow-up colonoscopy after a positive covered multi-target stool DNA screening test as part of complete colorectal cancer screening.

• Medicare generally covers eligible preventive screening colonoscopy without beneficiary cost-sharing when applicable requirements are met.

• Polyp or tissue removal during colonoscopy can result in 15% coinsurance under Medicare rules.

• Medicare expanded colorectal cancer screening coverage to qualifying blood-based biomarker tests in 2026.

• Medicare also covers CT colonography and other colorectal screening options under specified requirements.

Last reviewed for source accuracy: October 2026.

Medical disclaimer: This article is for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medicare coverage, eligibility requirements and cost-sharing rules can change. Always verify current coverage with Medicare, your Medicare Advantage plan or supplemental insurer and your healthcare professional before scheduling a procedure.