Colonoscopy

TRICARE covers colonoscopy exams as follows:

  • For individuals with hereditary non-polyposis colon rectal cancer syndrome, exams are available every two years beginning at age 25 (or five years younger than the earliest age of diagnosis of colorectal cancer, whichever is earlier), and then annually after age 40.
  • For individuals who have first-degree relative diagnosed with sporadic colon rectal cancer or adenomas before the age of 60 or multiple first-degree relatives with colon rectal cancer or adenomas, exams are available every three to five years beginning 10 years earlier than the youngest affected relative.
  • Once every 10 years beginning at age 45 for individuals at average risk for colon cancer.

TRICARE covers computed tomographic colonography once every five years beginning at age 45 for individuals at average risk for colon cancer.

See Also

Colorectal Cancer Exams

Important Information About Colorectal Cancer Screening Coverage

There have been no changes to the colorectal cancer screenings that TRICARE covers. TRICARE doesn’t cover blood-based or stool-based RNA testing.

Before you use a colorectal cancer screening test, make sure TRICARE covers it. Do you have questions about covered tests? You can call your TRICARE contractor.

Disclaimer:

This list of covered services isn’t all-inclusive. TRICARE covers services that are and considered proven. Some services have special rules or limits, and some services are excluded. Learn how a benefit becomes covered.

Last Updated 2/17/2026