How to Get a Colonoscopy at Lower Cost

A colonoscopy is a test that screens for colon cancer, which can be performed in a hospital outpatient department, in a doctor's office, or in a clinic. It is recommended that individuals with average risk have a colonoscopy screening every 10 years starting at age 50. Patients with a higher risk of developing colorectal cancer should begin screening earlier, and on a more regular basis, according to the American Cancer Society.

While colorectal screenings are widely available in the United States, factors such as high-deductible insurance policies and financial circumstances can cause individuals to delay receiving a colonoscopy.

Things You'll Need

• Referring physician

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Instructions

• 1

  Negotiate a cash price with the accounting department of the hospital that is handling your colonoscopy. When using insurance for payment, hospitals have a contracted price that they bill insurance companies for each procedure. If an individual has a high deductible that must be met prior to coverage, they can oftentimes end up paying out of pocket for the entire procedure. If a cash price is negotiated with the hospital, and insurance is not involved, a much lower price can often be paid.

• 2

  Change insurance companies. Many insurance companies cover colonoscopies or preventative screenings at 100 percent. If your insurance policy is not one of those, and you are at high risk for colon cancer, or nearing the recommended age of 50, you may look into changing your policy to one that will cover a colon screening.

• 3

  Ask for the colonoscopy procedure to be performed at a clinic. Many physicians will send patients to a nearby hospital or one that they work closely with before checking with the patient. Your insurance company may pay more of the expense if you have the testing done at a hospital that is in-network. Talk to your doctor, or the office staff, and ask about relocating the place where your screening is done.

• 4

  Check with your city or state health department for discount facilities. New York, for instance, has a listing of locations in the area that offer low-cost colonoscopies. The Department of Health website offers a listing of clinics and hospitals, along with phone contact information, for assistance in lowering your cost.