Patient Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Why should I screen for colon cancer?
A. Colon cancer is preventable and treatable if caught early.
Q. Why wouldn’t I just get this from my doctor?
A. The screening we do is the same as what your doctor would offer. You can request this at your next visit or you can complete the screener today here at the pharmacy.
Q. Does my insurance cover the Cologuard test?
A. Almost all insurance providers cover the Cologuard Test for screening. To better understand your specific plan coverage, please call the number on the back of your insurance card.
Q. What should I do to prepare to use my test?
A. There are no dietary or medication restrictions to completing your Cologuard test, there is also no need to fast. It’s ready when you're ready.
Q. I ordered a test but haven’t received it yet?
A. This happens sometimes. Call 844-870-8870 and they can let you know why and help you get the test.
Q. I have the kit sitting at home but haven’t completed it yet. Is it still good?
A. The test is good for 1 year from the date it was ordered.
Q. What happens if the test is positive? Does it mean I have cancer?
A. A positive Cologuard result does not necessarily mean you have cancer. It just means something abnormal was found in your sample and additional testing is necessary. Your next step would be to schedule a colonoscopy.
Q. If I need a colonoscopy after this, will insurance cover it?
A. Insurance is required to cover a colonoscopy at after a positive Cologuard test result at the same level of coverage.
Q. I have questions about how to set up my test?
A. Refer to the Cologuard instructions to provide education. A quick start guide and a patient instruction booklet are both located inside the Cologuard test box.
Cologuard Adherence Resource (How to use test)
Cologuard Component Flashcard (How to use test visual aid)
Q. How do I get the test back to UPS?
A. The test must be handed off to UPS the same day or the next day. You can arrange for a UPS pick up at your doorstep or drop the test off at a convenient UPS location. Refer to the UPS Shipping section of the Cologuard instructions for more details.
Q. What if I have hemorrhoids?
A. Do not complete your Cologuard test if you have hemorrhoids that are actively bleeding. Blood can interfere with the results of the test.
Q. What if I have loose stool or diarrhea?
A. Loose stool is ok if that is a normal type of bowel movement for you. Do not complete your test if you have diarrhea.
Q. What if I am menstruating?
A. Do not complete your test if you are menstruating. Blood can interfere with the results of the test.
Q: How often do I have to be screened?
A. The current recommendations are as follows:
- Highly sensitive fecal immunochemical test (FIT) every year
- Highly sensitive guaiac-based fecal occult blood test (gFOBT) every year
- Multi-targeted stool DNA test with fecal immunochemical testing (MT-sDNA or sDNA-FIT or FIT-DNA)) every 3 years
- Colonoscopy every 10 years
- CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy) every 5 years
- Sigmoidoscopy every 5 years
For more information and resources, click here.
Pharmacy Staff Frequently Asked Questions
Q. I am out of brochures. How do we order more?
A. Email support@imagemovermd.com and let us know what marketing piece you need, what language, and how many.
Q. I have questions about this program. Who can help me?
A. Reach out to your company CRC lead or email support@imagemovermd.com with any questions.
Q. Will I have to tell the patient the results?
A.Exact Science (the makers of Cologuard) are responsible for the delivery of results.