Colonoscopy is a diagnostic test that is usually requested to
diagnose lesions or pathologies in the large intestine, rectum, or ileum. It is
an invasive procedure, but quite simple, thanks to which numerous diseases can
be detected in their early stages, when they are fully treatable.
What is a colonoscopy
It is an exploratory test thanks to which the doctor can observe
the walls of the intestine, with the intention of detecting possible
abnormalities. It is performed using a device called a colonoscopy, a long,
thin tube equipped with a camera and a light to record and send real-time
images of the state of the colon.
Why is a colonoscopy requested?
This test is usually requested by a doctor specializing in the
digestive system, with the aim of having first-hand information on what happens
inside the intestine.
It is usually recommended when there is suspicion of some type
of pathology, not necessarily serious, or to rule out important problems.
Despite being an invasive test, it does not have any type of complication
and is performed on an outpatient basis. The patient comes and leaves the
clinic the same day and by his own foot.
The most frequent reasons for which a colonoscopy can be
requested are the following:
●
Abdominal pain without apparent cause and that
does not subside.
●
Presence of polyps, which could have been
previously detected by means of an X-ray.
●
Persistent anemia for no other reason found.
●
Blood in the stool.
●
Stools of unusual color.
●
Rapid weight loss for no apparent reason.
A colonoscopy can also be requested
to monitor a pathology already diagnosed, such as colon cancer, Crohn's disease
or ulcerative colitis, among others.
How is this test done?
Before performing the colonoscopy it is necessary to clean the
intestine. To do this, the patient must fast for the hours prior to the
intervention and not eat solid food for at least three days before the test is
performed.
In addition, before going to the consultation, the specialist
will surely recommend the use of laxatives and the use of an enema. To help
empty the intestines, it is advisable to drink a lot of water and other liquids
such as infusions or defatted broth.
Before starting the test, some medications are administered to
the patient so that they are relaxed during the test and so that they do not
feel any type of discomfort.
During the colonoscopy, the patient should lie on his side, with
the knees bent to facilitate the introduction of the colonoscope. The
specialist will introduce the device slowly, observing the walls of the
intestine at all times in search of some type of anomaly.
Before, through the tube, air is introduced to distend the
intestinal walls and to be able to observe and intervene more easily. If
anything unusual is observed, tissue samples may be taken for analysis.
After the colonoscopy, the patient may experience mild
discomfort for 24 hours. Gas and a slight burning in the stomach are usually
felt.
What parts of Medicare cover colonoscopy?
Medicare includes different parts that provide coverage for
different types of medical services. In this section we describe how each part
may or may not cover a colonoscopy.
Medicare Part A
Medicare Part A is the part of Medicare that covers
hospital-related costs. If you need inpatient hospital care, Medicare Part A is
the part of your insurance that pays for these costs.
Sometimes someone may be in the hospital and need a colonoscopy.
Let's say you experience a gastrointestinal (GI) bleed. Medicare Part A will
pay for these services and Medicare Part B (information later) will pay for
your doctor's services while you are in the hospital.
Medicare may require you to pay a copayment or deductible for
services you receive in the hospital. Typically, this is a one-time payment for
up to 60 days of hospital stay.
Medicare Part B
Medicare Part B is the part of Medicare that pays for medical
services and preventive care. This is the part that covers outpatient care for
services like a colonoscopy.
A person pays a monthly fee for Medicare Part B and has an
annual deductible. The deductible varies from year to year, but in 2020 it is
$198.
However, Medicare does not require you to meet your deductible
before paying for a colonoscopy, and they will pay regardless of whether the
colonoscopy is for screening or diagnostic fees.
Medicare Part C
Medicare Part C, or Medicare Advantage, is a Medicare plan that
includes Part A, Part B, and certain prescription drug coverage. The Medicare
Advantage Plan must cover screening colonoscopies as mandated by the Affordable
Care Act.
The main consideration if you have Medicare Part C is to make
sure the doctor and anesthesia providers are in your plan's network, since many
Medicare Advantage plans require you to seek care from specific providers.
Medicare Part D
Medicare Part D is prescription drug coverage that a person
could buy in addition to the other parts of Medicare. Some Medicare Part D
plans may cover prescriptions for a bowel preparation that helps clean out the
colon before a colonoscopy.