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Frequently Asked Questions

General

ColonoscopyAssist provides affordable and accessible gastroenterology
procedures for underinsured and self-pay individuals. The program allows you to choose a nearby provider and easily schedule a colonoscopy or endoscopy at a significantly reduced cost.

The following services are provided at affordable pre-negotiated rates:

1. Colonoscopy (screening or diagnostic)
2. Upper Endoscopy
3. Hemorroid Banding
4. Cologuard
5. FIT

You must meet one simple criteria to be able to schedule with ColonoscopyAssist:

  1. You must be paying for your procedure out-of-pocket.


That’s it! There are no income, residency or immigration restrictions at this time.

ColonoscopyAssist was designed as an assistance program to help the uninsured and is the reason we exist.

ColonoscopyAssist accepts payments via the following methods:

  • Debit Card
  • Credit Card 
  • Zelle
  • HSA, FSA or HRA cards
  • CareCredit
  • Zip (buy now pay later)
  • Crypto Currency

No. Our pricing is transparent and all-inclusive. This means the price you you will be asked to pay is the final price for that service. There are no hidden fees and we will never come back to you with a surprise charge.

ColonoscopyAssist is typically able to schedule appointments faster than a patient scheduling on their own. Most patients are able to complete their procedure within a few weeks of submitting their scheduling forms.

We wholeheartedly support health sharing plans and their goals. Many members of health sharing ministries use ColonoscopyAssist, and we have developed a detailed statement with all the required codes and information to facilitate reimbursement. After your procedure, simply request an itemized statement from us, and we’ll provide you with a pre-filled statement ready to submit to your
health sharing plan.

You may submit this request by emailing info@colonoscopyassist.com or calling our support line at (855) 346-5152.

There are no income, residency or immigration restrictions to schedule imaging studies through ColonoscopyAssist at this time.

Yes. Just like any other medical service, you will receive a detailed report from the physician office after your colonoscopy. A copy of your report can be sent to your primary physician if requested.

Scheduling Process

Scheduling is simple and quick. The scheduling process is as follows :

  1. Search and select a location from our location lookup tool.
  2. Submit your appointment request (for assistance, call 855-542-6566)
  3. Receive your appointment confirmation.
  4. Complete payment for your procedure to receive your voucher.
  5. Go to your appointment and present your voucher at check-in.

Consults are usually not needed for most asymptomatic patients scheduling through the program. However, whether one is required is ultimately at the discretion of the provider. A patient navigator will let you know if a consult is needed prior to scheduling. Discounted rates for consultations are available and some providers include consults within their procedure rate.

ColonoscopyAssist is typically able to schedule appointments faster than a patient scheduling on their own. Most patients are able to complete their procedure within a few weeks of submitting their scheduling forms.

In urgent situations, ColonoscopyAssist will work with the provider’s office to schedule your procedure as soon as possible.

Our program is subject to the availability and manpower limitations of providers that voluntarily collaborate with our program and should not be used as an emergency service. ER Rooms are best suited to handle emergencies.

No. To receive ColonoscopyAssist rates, you must initiate the scheduling request via our program.

Additionally, ColonoscopyAssist does not take over existing appointments, or interfere with an existing patient provider relationship.

Payments are due to ColonoscopyAssist at least seven (7) business days prior to your scheduled procedure. You will receive a unique payment link along with instructions within your appointment confirmation email.

No. ColonoscopyAssist cannot retroactively cover any procedures already performed.

Scheduled appointments must be cancelled using the cancellation link in your appointment confirmation email.

You may cancel an unscheduled appointment request in one of the following two ways :

1) By phone: 855-542-6566

2) By email: info@colonoscopyassist.com

Appointment Questions

The patient must obtain pre-procedure preparation instructions from the facility prior to the study. ColonoscopyAssist is unable to provide this information.

You will need to bring your I.D. and a copy of the ColonoscopyAssist voucher to your appointment (electronic copy acceptable). Both are mandatory.

You will be able to choose your facility at the time of submitting your scheduling request.

Additionally, if you have a confirmed appointment, you can find the address and phone number of the location in your appointment confirmation email. Be sure to confirm the address with the facility prior to your appointment.

ColonoscopyAssist works with hundreds of providers, each having a rapidly fluctuating schedule. While most appointments are scheduled quickly, our team does not have direct access to each center’s schedule.

Patients are asked provide their scheduling preferences when requesting an appointment and our schedulers will do their best to meet these preferences. In most cases they are able to meet the preferences. If they are unable to meet the preferences, the schedulers select the best available option and you can choose to keep the appointment or reschedule.

No. To receive ColonoscopyAssist rates, you must initiate the scheduling request via our program.

Additionally, ColonoscopyAssist does not take over existing appointments, or interfere with an existing patient provider relationship.

All appointment changes must be made through ColonoscopyAssist. Please do not contact the facility directly. To modify your appointment, use the link provided in your confirmation email, or reach out by phone at 855-542-6566 or by email at info@colonoscopyassist.com.

You can coordinate prep information directly with the facility after scheduling your appointment. Make sure to call the prep number provided in your appointment confirmation email at least 7 days before your appointment to receive the necessary prep instructions.

Yes. Some providers utilize a prescription prep, while others utilize an over-the-counter prep. You will coordinate the prep with the provider directly prior to your appointment date.

Refunds

Yes. If a procedure was not rendered, you are entitled to a full refund per our money-back guarantee.

Please note there is a fee for last minute cancellations and no-shows as per our refund policy.

You can request a refund by writing a simple email with your request to info@colonoscopyassist.com

If you prefer to do it over phone, you may call ColonoscopyAssist at 855-542-6566 

ColonoscopyAssist typically processes all refund requests within 48 hours. Once the refund has been processed, the refund should arrive within few business days depending on your bank or card.

No. There are no processing fees for refunds.

Yes. Our goal is for you to receive your procedure at the lowest out-of-pocket cost to you. If you later find out that your insurance will cover the procedure, you can request a refund.
Please visit our refunds policy page to see our policy about refunds for this situation.

Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is a visual examination of the inner lining of the large intestine (colon) using a long, flexible tube equipped with a camera.  Learn more about colonoscopies

You must meet one simple criteria to be able to schedule with ColonoscopyAssist:

  1. You must be paying for your procedure out-of-pocket.


That’s it! There are no income, residency or immigration restrictions at this time.

Our colonoscopy flat rate is an all-inclusive rate. It includes all costs related to the procedure and there are no hidden charges. The price includes:

1) Physician fees
2) Facility or Hospital fees
3) Sedation or Anesthesia costs
4) Removal of polyps and taking of biopsies
5) Pathology Cost (Pathologist and Laboratory fees)

Note: Our fee includes the removal and pathology lab fees for an unlimited number of polyps and biopsies.
This is important, as normally when providers state costs they do not include unlimited pathology lab fees.

  1. Consultations: Consultations are usually not needed for asymptomatic patients going through the program. For providers that require pre-consults for all patients, the cost of the consult is included in our flat-rate.
  2. Prep Medicine: The cost of bowel prep medicine is not included in the flat rate. 
  3. Follow Up Care: Our rate only covers the scheduled procedure and does not cover any treatment before or after.
  4. Reference Pathology and Genetic Testing: When a cancerous mass is found, a second round of lab and genetic testing may be to determine a treatment plan. This additional testing is not part of the colonoscopy and is not covered in our flat rate even if they choose to use the specimen collected during the colonoscopy or endoscopy.

No, the rate does not change no matter how much pathology is incurred. Most colonoscopy and upper endoscopy procedures result in biopsies. Specimens are sent to a pathology lab for testing; our flat rate includes biopsies and pathology lab costs for any number of specimens. This means that 2, 3, or even 12 biopsies could be sent out and you would not be responsible for any extra cost. Typically, the cost of a pathology lab test can be quite significant. Pathology lab fees from just 4 specimens during an Upper Endoscopy procedure can cost in the thousands.

While colonoscopy is the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening, there are some alternative tests available depending on individual circumstances. These might include:

  • Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT): This non-invasive test checks for hidden blood in the stool, which can be a sign of potential problems.
  • Cologuard DNA Test: This at-home test analyzes stool samples for DNA markers linked to colon cancer or precancerous growths.

Upper Endoscopy

An upper GI endoscopy procedure or Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is a procedure where a scope is inserted into the stomach via the throat. The procedure is only done upon physician recommendation to diagnose certain conditions. It is not done as a screening and you should not assume that you need one along with a colonoscopy unless a physician has asked for it.

Learn more about upper endoscopy

Our self-pay flat rate for upper endoscopy is an all-inclusive rate. It includes all costs related to the procedure and there are no hidden charges. The price includes:

  1. Physician Fees
  2. Facility or Hospital fees
  3. Sedation or Anesthesia costs
  4. Removal of polyps and taking of biopsies
  5. Pathology Cost (Lab fees)
  6. Reports from physician and pathology lab

Note: Our fee includes the removal and pathology lab fees for an unlimited number of polyps and biopsies. Nearly all Upper Endoscopy/EGD procedures have significant pathology needs. Most practices do not include the cost of pathology lab fees in their quotes. In many Upper Endoscopy procedures, the pathology lab costs can exceed the cost of the procedure itself.

  1. Consultations:
    Consultations may or may not be included in our flat rate depending on the provider. Our facility locator tool will show that information.
  2. Follow Up Care:
    Our rate only covers the endoscopy procedure and does not cover any treatment before or after the upper endoscopy.
  3. Clinical Lab Tests
    Any non pathology lab tests are not covered. For example, the provider may recommend a lab test during your pre-consult.

No, it does not. Almost all Upper Endoscopy procedures result in multiple biopsies needed. All biopsies are sent to a pathology lab for testing; our flat rate includes biopsies and pathology lab costs for any number of specimens. This means that 2, 3, or even 12 biopsies could be sent out and you would not be responsible for any extra cost. Typically, the cost of a pathology lab test can be quite significant. Pathology lab fees from just 4 specimens during an Upper Endoscopy procedure can cost in the thousands.

No. An upper endoscopy is never performed as a screening. It is a diagnostic procedure meaning that it would only be performed if your symptoms and medical history support needing the procedure.

Payments

ColonoscopyAssist accepts payments via the following methods:

  • Debit Card
  • Credit Card 
  • Zelle
  • HSA, FSA or HRA cards
  • CareCredit
  • Zip (buy now pay later)
  • Crypto Currency

ColonoscopyAssist accepts FSA/HSA debit card payments or you can submit our receipt to your FSA/HSA for reimbursement.

You will need to contact your insurance company for information on this subject. Upon request, ColonoscopyAssist will provide an itemized invoice with details of procedures performed.

Yes. Payments are refundable for services that have not been rendered.  Every purchase through ColonoscopyAssist is backed by our refund policy / money-back guarantee.

Payment is due seven (7) days prior to your scheduled appointment. In the event that your procedure is scheduled less than seven days out, payment will be due the following business day after the appointment is scheduled.

FIT Kit

A Fecal Immunochemical Test is a highly accurate colorectal cancer screening stool test. It involves taking a stool sample at home and sending it back to a lab for processing.

The test is a Tier 1 recommended as a colorectal screening by the American Cancer Society, CDC and US Preventative Services Task Force.

This test is sometimes referred to as Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) .

Our simple flat rate is a truly all-inclusive price for the FIT (fecal immunochemical test). It includes :

  1. Shipping of the kit to the patient
  2. Return postage of specimen to the lab
  3. Lab costs
  4. Reports

Medical guidelines state that all persons over the age of 45 at average risk of Colorectal Cancer (CRC) should take this test once a year even if no symptoms exists.

Taking the FIT is simple and non-invasive with a total time commitment of less than 5 minutes. ColonoscopyAssist will mail you a collection kit which will allow you to collect a small stool sample using a brush. The kit is returned to our lab using a pre-paid envelope provided and results are typically available within 7 days.

No. ColonoscopyAssist does not require a referring or primary physician for the test. However, if requested, ColonoscopyAssist will send a copy of your report to your referring or primary physician.

The test is a highly accurate method of screening that detects hidden blood in the stool. ColonoscopyAssist uses InSure® ONE™ screening kits, which have a sensitivity rate of 88% and a specificity rate of 97%.

A portal link to view your reports will be sent to your email address once results are available. Results are typically ready within 7 days of the lab receiving the samples. A copy of your reports is faxed to your primary physician if provided.

Frequently Asked Questions

General

ColonoscopyAssist helps uninsured and self-pay individuals to schedule gastroenterology procedures by making them low-cost and easy to schedule. Through the program, you can select a provider close by to you and quickly schedule a colonoscopy or endoscopy at a deeply discounted rate.

The following services are provided at affordable pre-negotiated rates:

1. Colonoscopy (screening or diagnostic)
2. Upper Endoscopy
3. Hemorroid Banding
4. Cologuard
5. FIT

You must meet the following two criteria to be able to schedule with ColonoscopyAssist:

  1. You must be paying for your imaging out-of-pocket.
  2. You must have a referral from a provider for colonoscopies and upper endoscopies.

There are no income, residency or immigration restrictions at this time.

ColonoscopyAssist was designed as an assistance program to help the uninsured and is the reason we exist.

ColonoscopyAssist accepts payments via the following methods:

  • Debit or Credit Card (Visa, MasterCard or Discover only)
  • Check
  • HSA, FSA or HRA cards
  • CareCredit
  • Sizzle
  • Zip 

ColonoscopyAssist does not accept American Express at this time.

Our pricing is transparent and all-inclusive. This means the price you see at booking is the final price you’ll pay. There are no hidden fees or surprise charges.

Scheduling through the program is the same as scheduling at most gastroenterologist offices. Most patients are able to complete their procedure within 2 weeks of submitting their scheduling forms.

We fully support and stand behind health sharing plans and their mission. Members of health sharing ministries use ColonoscopyAssist regularly and over time, we have created a special statement that include all the necessary codes and information so that the sharing plans can reimburse their members.

Just request an itemized statement once your procedure has been completed and we will send you a pre-completed statement to submit to your plan.

You may submit this request by emailing info@colonoscopyassist.com or calling our support line at (855) 346-5152.

There are no income, residency or immigration restrictions to schedule imaging studies through ColonoscopyAssist at this time.

Yes. Just like any other medical service, you will receive a detailed report from the physician office after your colonoscopy. A copy of your report can be sent to your primary physician if requested.

Scheduling Process

Scheduling is simple and quick. The process is as follows :

The scheduling process is as follows :

  1. Search and select a location from our location lookup tool.
  2. Submit your appointment request forms (for assistance, call 855-542-6566)
  3. Receive your appointment confirmation.
  4. Complete payment for your procedure to confirm your appointment and receive your voucher.
  5. Go to your appointment and present you voucher upon check-in.

Yes, a referral from a physician is required for colonoscopies and upper endoscopies.

Consults are usually not needed for about 70% of patients scheduling through the program. However, they are required for medically complex patients. A patient navigator will let you know if a consult is needed prior to scheduling. Discounted rates for consultations are available and some providers include consults within their procedure rate.

In most cases, ColonoscopyAssist is able to schedule appointments faster than a patient scheduling by themselves. You can typically expect a confirmed appointment within a few business days after we receive your scheduling request forms.

Our hours of operation are Mon – Fri 8am to 5pm CST.

In urgent situations, ColonoscopyAssist will work with the provider’s office to schedule your procedure as soon as possible.

 

Our program is subject to the availability of the centers that voluntarily collaborate with our program and should not be used as an emergency service.

To utilize ColonoscopyAssist for scheduling your procedure, the appointment must be scheduled through ColonoscopyAssist.

If you call and schedule with the facility directly, you will be subject to their self-pay rates for the procedure.

Payments are due to ColonoscopyAssist at least seven (7) business days prior to your scheduled procedure. You will receive a unique payment link along with instructions within your appointment confirmation email.

For additional payment questions, see the payments section of our frequently asked questions.

No. ColonoscopyAssist cannot retroactively cover any procedures already performed.

Scheduled appointments must be cancelled using the cancellation link in your appointment confirmation email.

You may cancel an unscheduled appointment request in one of the following two ways :

1) By phone at 855-542-6566

2) By emailing info@colonoscopyassist.com

Appointment Questions

The patient must obtain pre-procedure preparation instructions from the facility prior to the study. ColonoscopyAssist is unable to provide this information.

You will need to bring your I.D. and a copy of the ColonoscopyAssist voucher to your appointment (electronic copy acceptable).

You will be able to choose your facility at the time of submitting your scheduling request.

Additionally, if you have a confirmed appointment, you can find the address and phone number of the location in your appointment confirmation email. Be sure to confirm the address with the facility prior to your appointment.

ColonoscopyAssist works with hundreds of providers, each having a rapidly fluctuating schedule. While most appointments are scheduled quickly, our team does not have direct access to each center’s schedule.

Patients are asked provide their scheduling preferences when requesting an appointment and our schedulers will do their best to meet these preferences. In most cases they are able to meet the preferences. If they are unable to meet the preferences, the schedulers select the best available option and you can choose to keep the appointment or reschedule.

To utilize ColonoscopyAssist for scheduling your procedure, the appointment must be scheduled through ColonoscopyAssist.

If you call and schedule with the facility directly, you will be subject to their self-pay rates for the procedure.

All changes to your appointment must be made with ColonoscopyAssist. Do not call the facility directly. You can request modification of your appointment using the link in your appointment confirmation, or by phone at 855-542-6566 or by email at info@colonoscopyassist.com.

Prep information can be coordinated with the facility directly after your appointment has been scheduled. Be sure to call the facility prep number provided within your appointment confirmation email to obtain prep instructions at least 7 days prior to your appointment.

Some facilities utilize a prescription prep, while others utilize an over-the-counter prep. This depends on the facility and you will need to coordinate the prep instructions with the facility directly prior to your appointment date.

Refunds

Yes. If a procedure was not rendered at the time of service, you are entitled to a full refund per our money-back guarantee.

Please note there is a fee for late cancellations and no-shows.

Please contact ColonoscopyAssist at 855-542-6566 regarding any refunds you need to request. You can also send us an email with the information at info@colonoscopyassist.com

ColonoscopyAssist typically processes all refund requests within 48 hours. Once the refund has been processed, the refund should arrive within few business days depending on your bank or card.

No. There are no processing fees for refunds.

Yes. Please visit our refunds policy page to see our detailed refund policy when an insurance claim is filed for a study scheduled through ColonoscopyAssist.

Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is a visual examination of the inner lining of the large intestine (colon) using a long, flexible tube equipped with a camera.  Learn more about colonoscopies

To be eligible for the our discounted rate for a colonoscopy you must:

1) be indicated for a colonoscopy

2) pay for the entire procedure out of pocket

3) not be a member of state or federally funded benefit plans (such as Medicare, Medicaid or Tricare), even if you elect to go outside of the benefit as an uninsured (cash-paying) patient

The program does not have any residency, income or immigration limitations at this time.

Certain limitations do apply if you intend to apply for financial assistance.

Our flat rate is an all-inclusive rate. It includes all costs related to the procedure and there are no hidden charges. The price includes:

1) Physician fees
2) Facility or Hospital fees
3) Sedation or Anesthesia costs
4) Removal of polyps and taking of biopsies
5) Pathology Cost (Pathologist and Laboratory fees)

Note: Our fee includes the removal and pathology lab fees for an unlimited number of polyps and biopsies.
This is important, as normally colonoscopy costs stated do not include pathology lab fees.

  1. Consultations: Consultations are usually not needed for healthy patients going through the program. Patients can request a consult if they prefer for a discounted rate of approx $125.
  2. Prep Medicine: The cost of bowel prep medicine is not included in the flat rate. You may apply for financial assistance for help with this cost.
  3. Follow Up Care: Our rate only covers the colonoscopy procedure and does not cover any treatment before or after the colonoscopy.
  4. Reference Pathology and Genetic Testing: When a cancerous mass is found, a second round of lab testing may be performed where additional stains, immunochemistry and genetic testing are completed to determine a treatment plan. This additional testing is not part of the colonoscopy and is not covered in our flat rate even if the specimen tested was collected during the colonoscopy.

The program schedules both screening and diagnostic colonoscopy. There is no difference in cost.

While colonoscopy is the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening, there are some alternative tests available depending on individual circumstances. These might include:

  • Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT): This non-invasive test checks for hidden blood in the stool, which can be a sign of potential problems.
  • Cologuard DNA Test: This at-home test analyzes stool samples for DNA markers linked to colon cancer or precancerous growths.

Upper Endoscopy

An upper GI endoscopy procedure or Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is a procedure where a scope is inserted into the stomach via the throat. The procedure is only done upon physician reccomendation to diagnose certain conditions. It is not done as a screening and you should not assume that you need one along with a colonoscopy unless a physician has asked for it. Learn more about upper endoscopy

To receive the discounted rate for an upper endoscopy you must be:
1) indicated for an upper endoscopy
2) paying for the entire procedure out of pocket

The program does not have any residency, income or immigration limitations at this time. 

Our self-pay flat rate is an all-inclusive rate. It includes all costs related to the procedure and there are no hidden charges. The price includes:

  1. Physician Fees
  2. Facility or Hospital fees
  3. Sedation or Anesthesia costs
  4. Removal of polyps and taking of biopsies
  5. Pathology Cost (Lab fees)
  6. Reports from physician and pathology lab

Note: Our fee includes the removal and pathology lab fees for an unlimited number of polyps and biopsies. Nearly all Upper Endoscopy/EGD procedures have significant pathology needs. Most practices do not include the cost of pathology lab fees in their quotes. In many Upper Endoscopy procedures, the pathology lab costs can exceed the cost of the procedure itself.

  1. Consultations:
    Consultations are usually not needed for healthy patients going through the program. Patients can request a consult if they prefer for a discounted rate of approx $125.
  2. Follow Up Care:
    Our rate only covers the colonoscopy procedure and does not cover any treatment before or after the colonoscopy.
  3. Clinical Lab Tests
    Any non pathology lab tests are not covered.

No, it does not. Almost all Upper Endoscopy procedures result in multiple biopsies needed. All biopsies are sent to a pathology lab for testing; our flat rate includes biopsies and pathology lab costs for any number of specimens. This means that 2, 3, or even 12 biopsies could be sent out and you would not be responsible for any extra cost. Typically, the cost of a pathology lab test can be quite significant. Pathology lab fees from just 4 specimens during an Upper Endoscopy procedure can cost in the thousands.

No. An upper endoscopy is never performed as a screening. It is a diagnostic procedure.

Payments

ColonoscopyAssist accepts payments via the following methods:

  • Debit or Credit Card (Visa, MasterCard or Discover only)
  • Check
  • HSA, FSA or HRA cards
  • CareCredit
  • ZIP

ColonoscopyAssist does not accept American Express at this time.

ColonoscopyAssist accepts FSA/HSA debit card payments or you can submit our receipt to your FSA/HSA for reimbursement.

You will need to contact your insurance company for information on this subject. Upon request, ColonoscopyAssist will provide an itemized invoice with details of procedures performed.

Yes. ColonoscopyAssist was founded to help make GI procedures affordable. Every purchase through ColonoscopyAssist is backed by our money-back guarantee.

For more information on refunds, see the refunds section of our frequently asked questions page.

Yes. ColonoscopyAssist was founded to help make GI procedures affordable. Every purchase through ColonoscopyAssist is backed by our money-back guarantee.

For more information on refunds, see the refunds section of our frequently asked questions page.

FIT Kit

A Fecal Immunochemical Test is a highly accurate colorectal cancer screening stool test. It involves taking a stool sample at home and sending it back to a lab for processing.

The test is a Tier 1 recommended as a colorectal screening by the American Cancer Society, CDC and US Preventative Services Task Force.

This test is sometimes referred to as Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT).

The test is $25 and includes everything needed to collect the sample along with return postage.

Medical guidelines state that all persons over the age of 45 at average risk of Colorectal Cancer (CRC) should take this test once a year even if no symptoms exists.

Taking the FIT is simple and non-invasive with a total time commitment of less than 5 minutes. ColonoscopyAssist will mail you a collection kit which will allow you to collect a small stool sample using a brush. The kit is returned to our lab using a pre-paid envelope provided and results are typically available within 7 days.

No. ColonoscopyAssist does not require a referring or primary physician for the test. However, if requested, ColonoscopyAssist will send a copy of your report to the referring or primary physician.

The test is a highly accurate method of screening that detects hidden blood in the stool. ColonoscopyAssist uses InSure® ONE™ screening kits, which have a sensitivity rate of 88% and a specificity rate of 97%.

A portal link to view your reports will be sent to your email address once results are available. Results are typically ready within 7 days of the lab receiving the samples. A copy of your reports is faxed to your primary physician if provided.

Frequently Asked Questions

General

ColonoscopyAssist helps uninsured and self-pay individuals to schedule gastroenterology procedures by making them low-cost and easy to schedule. Through the program, you can select a provider close by to you and quickly schedule a colonoscopy or endoscopy at a deeply discounted rate.

The following services are provided at affordable pre-negotiated rates:

1. Colonoscopy (screening or diagnostic)
2. Upper Endoscopy
3. Hemorroid Banding
4. Cologuard
5. FIT

You must meet the following two criteria to be able to schedule with ColonoscopyAssist:

  1. You must be paying for your imaging out-of-pocket.
  2. You must have a referral from a provider for colonoscopies and upper endoscopies.

There are no income, residency or immigration restrictions at this time.

ColonoscopyAssist was designed as an assistance program to help the uninsured and is the reason we exist.

ColonoscopyAssist accepts payments via the following methods:

  • Debit or Credit Card (Visa, MasterCard or Discover only)
  • Check
  • HSA, FSA or HRA cards
  • CareCredit
  • Sizzle
  • Zip 

ColonoscopyAssist does not accept American Express at this time.

Our pricing is transparent and all-inclusive. This means the price you see at booking is the final price you’ll pay. There are no hidden fees or surprise charges.

Scheduling through the program is the same as scheduling at most gastroenterologist offices. Most patients are able to complete their procedure within 2 weeks of submitting their scheduling forms.

We fully support and stand behind health sharing plans and their mission. Members of health sharing ministries use ColonoscopyAssist regularly and over time, we have created a special statement that include all the necessary codes and information so that the sharing plans can reimburse their members.

Just request an itemized statement once your procedure has been completed and we will send you a pre-completed statement to submit to your plan.

You may submit this request by emailing info@colonoscopyassist.com or calling our support line at (855) 346-5152.

There are no income, residency or immigration restrictions to schedule imaging studies through ColonoscopyAssist at this time.

Yes. Just like any other medical service, you will receive a detailed report from the physician office after your colonoscopy. A copy of your report can be sent to your primary physician if requested.

Scheduling Process

Scheduling is simple and quick. The process is as follows :

The scheduling process is as follows :

  1. Search and select a location from our location lookup tool.
  2. Submit your appointment request forms (for assistance, call 855-542-6566)
  3. Receive your appointment confirmation.
  4. Complete payment for your procedure to confirm your appointment and receive your voucher.
  5. Go to your appointment and present you voucher upon check-in.

Yes, a referral from a physician is required for colonoscopies and upper endoscopies.

Consults are usually not needed for about 70% of patients scheduling through the program. However, they are required for medically complex patients. A patient navigator will let you know if a consult is needed prior to scheduling. Discounted rates for consultations are available and some providers include consults within their procedure rate.

In most cases, ColonoscopyAssist is able to schedule appointments faster than a patient scheduling by themselves. You can typically expect a confirmed appointment within a few business days after we receive your scheduling request forms.

Our hours of operation are Mon – Fri 8am to 5pm CST.

In urgent situations, ColonoscopyAssist will work with the provider’s office to schedule your procedure as soon as possible.

 

Our program is subject to the availability of the centers that voluntarily collaborate with our program and should not be used as an emergency service.

To utilize ColonoscopyAssist for scheduling your procedure, the appointment must be scheduled through ColonoscopyAssist.

If you call and schedule with the facility directly, you will be subject to their self-pay rates for the procedure.

Payments are due to ColonoscopyAssist at least seven (7) business days prior to your scheduled procedure. You will receive a unique payment link along with instructions within your appointment confirmation email.

For additional payment questions, see the payments section of our frequently asked questions.

No. ColonoscopyAssist cannot retroactively cover any procedures already performed.

Scheduled appointments must be cancelled using the cancellation link in your appointment confirmation email.

You may cancel an unscheduled appointment request in one of the following two ways :

1) By phone at 855-542-6566

2) By emailing info@colonoscopyassist.com

Appointment Questions

The patient must obtain pre-procedure preparation instructions from the facility prior to the study. ColonoscopyAssist is unable to provide this information.

You will need to bring your I.D. and a copy of the ColonoscopyAssist voucher to your appointment (electronic copy acceptable).

You will be able to choose your facility at the time of submitting your scheduling request.

Additionally, if you have a confirmed appointment, you can find the address and phone number of the location in your appointment confirmation email. Be sure to confirm the address with the facility prior to your appointment.

ColonoscopyAssist works with hundreds of providers, each having a rapidly fluctuating schedule. While most appointments are scheduled quickly, our team does not have direct access to each center’s schedule.

Patients are asked provide their scheduling preferences when requesting an appointment and our schedulers will do their best to meet these preferences. In most cases they are able to meet the preferences. If they are unable to meet the preferences, the schedulers select the best available option and you can choose to keep the appointment or reschedule.

To utilize ColonoscopyAssist for scheduling your procedure, the appointment must be scheduled through ColonoscopyAssist.

If you call and schedule with the facility directly, you will be subject to their self-pay rates for the procedure.

All changes to your appointment must be made with ColonoscopyAssist. Do not call the facility directly. You can request modification of your appointment using the link in your appointment confirmation, or by phone at 855-542-6566 or by email at info@colonoscopyassist.com.

Prep information can be coordinated with the facility directly after your appointment has been scheduled. Be sure to call the facility prep number provided within your appointment confirmation email to obtain prep instructions at least 7 days prior to your appointment.

Some facilities utilize a prescription prep, while others utilize an over-the-counter prep. This depends on the facility and you will need to coordinate the prep instructions with the facility directly prior to your appointment date.

Refunds

Yes. If a procedure was not rendered at the time of service, you are entitled to a full refund per our money-back guarantee.

Please note there is a fee for late cancellations and no-shows.

Please contact ColonoscopyAssist at 855-542-6566 regarding any refunds you need to request. You can also send us an email with the information at info@colonoscopyassist.com

ColonoscopyAssist typically processes all refund requests within 48 hours. Once the refund has been processed, the refund should arrive within few business days depending on your bank or card.

No. There are no processing fees for refunds.

Yes. Please visit our refunds policy page to see our detailed refund policy when an insurance claim is filed for a study scheduled through ColonoscopyAssist.

Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is a visual examination of the inner lining of the large intestine (colon) using a long, flexible tube equipped with a camera.  Learn more about colonoscopies

To be eligible for the our discounted rate for a colonoscopy you must:

1) be indicated for a colonoscopy

2) pay for the entire procedure out of pocket

3) not be a member of state or federally funded benefit plans (such as Medicare, Medicaid or Tricare), even if you elect to go outside of the benefit as an uninsured (cash-paying) patient

The program does not have any residency, income or immigration limitations at this time.

Certain limitations do apply if you intend to apply for financial assistance.

Our flat rate is an all-inclusive rate. It includes all costs related to the procedure and there are no hidden charges. The price includes:

1) Physician fees
2) Facility or Hospital fees
3) Sedation or Anesthesia costs
4) Removal of polyps and taking of biopsies
5) Pathology Cost (Pathologist and Laboratory fees)

Note: Our fee includes the removal and pathology lab fees for an unlimited number of polyps and biopsies.
This is important, as normally colonoscopy costs stated do not include pathology lab fees.

  1. Consultations: Consultations are usually not needed for healthy patients going through the program. Patients can request a consult if they prefer for a discounted rate of approx $125.
  2. Prep Medicine: The cost of bowel prep medicine is not included in the flat rate. You may apply for financial assistance for help with this cost.
  3. Follow Up Care: Our rate only covers the colonoscopy procedure and does not cover any treatment before or after the colonoscopy.
  4. Reference Pathology and Genetic Testing: When a cancerous mass is found, a second round of lab testing may be performed where additional stains, immunochemistry and genetic testing are completed to determine a treatment plan. This additional testing is not part of the colonoscopy and is not covered in our flat rate even if the specimen tested was collected during the colonoscopy.

The program schedules both screening and diagnostic colonoscopy. There is no difference in cost.

While colonoscopy is the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening, there are some alternative tests available depending on individual circumstances. These might include:

  • Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT): This non-invasive test checks for hidden blood in the stool, which can be a sign of potential problems.
  • Cologuard DNA Test: This at-home test analyzes stool samples for DNA markers linked to colon cancer or precancerous growths.

Upper Endoscopy

An upper GI endoscopy procedure or Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is a procedure where a scope is inserted into the stomach via the throat. The procedure is only done upon physician reccomendation to diagnose certain conditions. It is not done as a screening and you should not assume that you need one along with a colonoscopy unless a physician has asked for it. Learn more about upper endoscopy

To receive the discounted rate for an upper endoscopy you must be:
1) indicated for an upper endoscopy
2) paying for the entire procedure out of pocket

The program does not have any residency, income or immigration limitations at this time. 

Our self-pay flat rate is an all-inclusive rate. It includes all costs related to the procedure and there are no hidden charges. The price includes:

  1. Physician Fees
  2. Facility or Hospital fees
  3. Sedation or Anesthesia costs
  4. Removal of polyps and taking of biopsies
  5. Pathology Cost (Lab fees)
  6. Reports from physician and pathology lab

Note: Our fee includes the removal and pathology lab fees for an unlimited number of polyps and biopsies. Nearly all Upper Endoscopy/EGD procedures have significant pathology needs. Most practices do not include the cost of pathology lab fees in their quotes. In many Upper Endoscopy procedures, the pathology lab costs can exceed the cost of the procedure itself.

  1. Consultations:
    Consultations are usually not needed for healthy patients going through the program. Patients can request a consult if they prefer for a discounted rate of approx $125.
  2. Follow Up Care:
    Our rate only covers the colonoscopy procedure and does not cover any treatment before or after the colonoscopy.
  3. Clinical Lab Tests
    Any non pathology lab tests are not covered.

No, it does not. Almost all Upper Endoscopy procedures result in multiple biopsies needed. All biopsies are sent to a pathology lab for testing; our flat rate includes biopsies and pathology lab costs for any number of specimens. This means that 2, 3, or even 12 biopsies could be sent out and you would not be responsible for any extra cost. Typically, the cost of a pathology lab test can be quite significant. Pathology lab fees from just 4 specimens during an Upper Endoscopy procedure can cost in the thousands.

No. An upper endoscopy is never performed as a screening. It is a diagnostic procedure.

Payments

ColonoscopyAssist accepts payments via the following methods:

  • Debit or Credit Card (Visa, MasterCard or Discover only)
  • Check
  • HSA, FSA or HRA cards
  • CareCredit
  • ZIP

ColonoscopyAssist does not accept American Express at this time.

ColonoscopyAssist accepts FSA/HSA debit card payments or you can submit our receipt to your FSA/HSA for reimbursement.

You will need to contact your insurance company for information on this subject. Upon request, ColonoscopyAssist will provide an itemized invoice with details of procedures performed.

You will need to contact your insurance company for information on this subject. Upon request, ColonoscopyAssist will provide an itemized invoice with details of procedures performed.

Payment is due seven (7) days prior to your scheduled procedure. In the event that your procedure is scheduled less than seven days out, payment will be due the following business day that the appointment is scheduled.

FIT Kit

A Fecal Immunochemical Test is a highly accurate colorectal cancer screening stool test. It involves taking a stool sample at home and sending it back to a lab for processing.

The test is a Tier 1 recommended as a colorectal screening by the American Cancer Society, CDC and US Preventative Services Task Force.

This test is sometimes referred to as Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT).

The test is $25 and includes everything needed to collect the sample along with return postage.

Medical guidelines state that all persons over the age of 45 at average risk of Colorectal Cancer (CRC) should take this test once a year even if no symptoms exists.

Taking the FIT is simple and non-invasive with a total time commitment of less than 5 minutes. ColonoscopyAssist will mail you a collection kit which will allow you to collect a small stool sample using a brush. The kit is returned to our lab using a pre-paid envelope provided and results are typically available within 7 days.

No. ColonoscopyAssist does not require a referring or primary physician for the test. However, if requested, ColonoscopyAssist will send a copy of your report to the referring or primary physician.

The test is a highly accurate method of screening that detects hidden blood in the stool. ColonoscopyAssist uses InSure® ONE™ screening kits, which have a sensitivity rate of 88% and a specificity rate of 97%.

A portal link to view your reports will be sent to your email address once results are available. Results are typically ready within 7 days of the lab receiving the samples. A copy of your reports is faxed to your primary physician if provided.