Fecal occult blood tests (screening)
Medicare Coverage Information
Overview
Medicare covers fecal occult blood tests as a preventive screening for colorectal cancer. These tests help detect hidden blood in stool, which can be an early sign of potential digestive tract issues or cancer.
- Covered as a preventive screening service under Medicare Part B
- Typically covered once every 12 months for individuals 50 and older
- No cost-sharing (copayment or coinsurance) when performed by a Medicare-approved provider
- Part of Medicare's colorectal cancer screening benefits
- Can be done at home or in a clinical setting
- Medicare Part B beneficiaries
- Individuals 50 years and older
- Patients with average colorectal cancer risk
- No out-of-pocket cost when performed as a preventive screening
- Fully covered under Medicare Part B preventive services
- No deductible applies to this screening
- Must be ordered by a qualified healthcare provider
- Frequency limited to once per 12 months
- Must be medically appropriate for age and risk factors
- Discuss FOBT screening with your primary care physician
- Confirm coverage details with your specific Medicare plan
- Schedule the test as part of your routine preventive care
Last updated: 6/15/2025
Quick Information
- Provider
- Medicare
- Last Updated
- 6/15/2025
- Topics
- Medicarefecal occult blood testFOBTcolorectal cancer screeningpreventive care
Related Coverage Topics
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