Prevention is key. Get regular Colorectal Cancer screenings

In most cases, colorectal cancer develops from precancerous polyps (abnormal growths) in the colon or rectum. Fortunately, screening tests can find these polyps, so you can get them removed before they turn into cancer. Screening tests also can find colorectal cancer early, when treatment works best.

So what can you do to reduce your risk? If you’re 50 or older, or have a personal history of colorectal issues, make sure you get screened for colorectal cancer regularly. Medicarecovers this test once every 24 months if you’re at *high risk for colorectal cancer. If you aren’t at high risk for colorectal cancer, Medicare covers this test once every 120 months (ten years).  Don’t worry about the cost—Medicare covers a variety of colorectal cancer screenings, and you pay nothing for most tests. However, if a screening test results in the biopsy or removal of a lesion or growth during the same visit, the procedure is considered diagnostic and you may have to pay coinsurance or a copayment, but the Part B deductible doesn’t apply. To find out more about what Medicare covers,click here.

Link: http://www.medicare.gov/coverage/colorectal-cancer-screenings.html  

*High Risk: Your doctor will determine if you are at high risk for colorectal cancer and will need to accept the Medicare assignment for a procedure every 24 months.

Soundpath Health is a locally based 4 (out of 5) star health plan offering services for Medicare beneficiaries. Soundpath Health was founded in 2007 and is owned by physicians. With over 7,300 providers in its network, Soundpath Health currently offers five Medicare Advantage plans to nearly 17,000 members in nine counties in Washington State. For more information, visit www.SoundpathHealth.com.