When it comes to screening for colorectal cancer, you have options. But it’s important to know that not all tests offer the same benefits. While at-home stool tests are convenient and non-invasive, colonoscopy remains the gold standard—and for good reason.
Colonoscopy: Detection and Prevention in One
Unlike stool tests that look only for signs of existing cancer, a colonoscopy allows doctors to visually inspect your entire colon. More importantly, it lets them find and remove precancerous polyps on the spot, potentially stopping cancer before it even starts. A positive home stool-based test could mean that cancer has already formed.
Higher Accuracy Means Peace of Mind
Colonoscopy is one of the most accurate screening tools available, detecting 95% of colorectal cancers. Stool tests, while useful, can miss about half of polyps since not all polyps show detectable signs in stool samples.
One Test=Long-Term Protection
A clear colonoscopy result typically means you’re good for the next ten years. Stool tests require repeat screenings every one to three years. In other words, choosing a colonoscopy can mean fewer screenings overall—and greater confidence in your health.
Stool Test Positive? You’ll Need a Colonoscopy Anyway
It’s important to know that if a stool test comes back positive, you will still need a follow-up colonoscopy. A follow-up colonoscopy is categorized as diagnostic by many insurance plans. Diagnostic colonoscopies are typically not covered by free preventive service plans.
But here’s the good news: If you schedule a colonoscopy first, it’s typically fully covered by insurance. This helps you avoid unnecessary costs and extra stress. Starting with a colonoscopy streamlines the process, offering immediate answers and solutions.
Roughly 1-in-10 stool-based tests return false-positive results, which may result in a follow-up colonoscopy.
Avoid anxiety and unexpected costs by choosing a colonoscopy first.
Proven to Save Lives
Screening colonoscopies have significantly lowered colorectal cancer rates—by finding and removing polyps early. Early detection dramatically increases survival rates, making colonoscopy the gold standard for a reason.
Why Choose Amberwell for Your Colonoscopy?
At Amberwell Surgical Care, you’ll get trusted care during each step of the process—from screening to recovery. Some Amberwell primary care providers perform colonoscopies, but most patients choose to have their colonoscopy with Dr. Roderick Warren, head of surgery at Amberwell. A highly skilled general surgeon, Dr. Warren has extensive experience performing screening and diagnostic colonoscopies.
Amberwell Surgical Care’s streamlined process allows eligible patients to skip the in-office pre-procedure visit, saving time and money. For added convenience, we offer Monday appointments, making it easy to prep for your procedure over the weekend. Other appointment days are also available to fit your schedule. Plus, you don’t need a referral to schedule a colonoscopy with Amberwell Surgical Care.
Ready to Schedule Your Colonoscopy?
Talk to your primary care provider today about scheduling your colonoscopy. You can also click here to visit our website and fill out our online form or call Amberwell Surgical Care directly at 913-367- 6682 in Atchison or 785-742-6286 in Hiawatha—because prevention and early detection truly make a life-saving difference.
