Out-of-Pocket Prep Costs Reduce Screening Colonoscopy Uptake, Especially in Vulnerable Populations (Medscape)

A new Gastroenterology study led by Dr. Eric Shah (University of Michigan) shows most patients are still paying out-of-pocket for colonoscopy prep — despite ACA rules that should make it free.

• 53% of commercial and 83% of Medicare claims involved cost-sharing.
  
• Low-volume preps, preferred by patients, were the most expensive.
  
• Experts warn these “small” costs deter vulnerable groups from screening, worsening disparities.
  

As Dr. Shah put it: “Bowel prep is a major reason patients defer screening.”