The American Gastroenterological Association is urging physicians and patients alike to petition CMS to close the colonoscopy loophole.
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.