Here’s what you should know.
1. Screening colonoscopies are free for Medicare patients. However, if a polyp is removed during the colonoscopy, Medicare changes the procedure’s designation to a therapeutic procedure. The altered designation creates a copay for the patient.
2. The loophole acts as a deterrent, causing unnecessary risk. The AGA said, “Patients should be incentivized through the elimination of cost sharing to use colonoscopy as a colorectal cancer screening mechanism.”
3. To do so, the AGA created a predrafted letter that it’s urging physicians and patients to complete. The letter can be customized to reflect personal or professional experiences.
To sign the letter, click here.
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