Does Medicare cover a colonoscopy?
Yes. Medicare covers colorectal cancer screening, including screening colonoscopies — often at no cost to you when used for screening.
Reviewed by Brad S. · Licensed Florida Health Insurance Agent
Updated June 2026. Written and reviewed by a licensed agent at United Liberty Insurance Agency LLC to ensure accuracy. We cite official sources (HealthCare.gov, CMS, KFF) wherever possible.
What you need to know
- Screening colonoscopies are covered as a preventive service, frequently with $0 cost-sharing.
- Other screening options (stool-based tests, flexible sigmoidoscopy) are also covered on set schedules.
- If a polyp is removed during a screening colonoscopy, cost-sharing rules can change — ask your provider in advance.
The official rule
This coverage is governed by Medicare National Coverage Determination NCD 210.3 — “Colorectal Cancer Screening Tests” (last updated Sep 2025). For the official details and any recent changes, see the Medicare coverage tool at Medicare.gov.
What this means for your wallet
Medicare Advantage plans must cover the same preventive screenings, often with added wellness perks.
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Related coverage questions
Source: CMS Medicare Coverage Database (National Coverage Determinations) and Medicare.gov. Coverage rules can change and may vary by situation; this page is educational and not a guarantee of coverage. For official determinations, visit Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE.