require coding changes to cover the screening component of a colonoscopy, even if a procedure results.

When a healthy patient is advised to obtain a conoloscopy to screen for colorectal cancer, the assumption is that this is a preventive service and will be paid under insurance.
What many don't know is that, in the event that a polyp, tumor or other lesion is found, the entire procedure -- including the screening -- is then coded as non-preventive, resulting in unanticipated costs to the patient. These can be as high as $1,000 or more.
The medical coding should be changed to keep the screening component preventive, such that cost of the procedure is only that of the actual removal of the polyp, tumor or other lesion.
This would go a long way in encouraging consumers -- especially those with high-deductible plans -- to obtain the recommended preventive screenings.