Colorectal Screening
Visit your primary care provider to find out which screening is right for you.
What Is a Colorectal Screening?
Colorectal screenings check the colon and rectum for precancerous polyps, abnormal tissue, or signs of colorectal cancer. Several screening methods are available so your provider can recommend the option that best matches your age, risk level, and medical history.
There are several effective screening methods available. Your Primary Care Physician (PCP) can help determine which one is right for you.
Types of colorectal screening
Colonoscopy
Stool-Based Tests
Why Choose Baptist Health?
At Baptist Health, you have access to:
- Advanced imaging and screening technology with high accuracy
- Experienced gastroenterology and radiology teams skilled in early detection
- Coordinated care that connects your results with your primary or specialty provider
- Multiple convenient locations across South Florida
- A patient-centered approach that prioritizes comfort, safety, and clarity at every step
Your comfort, safety and clarity of care are always our priority.
Need a Prescription?
If you don’t have a prescription yet, our team can help. Baptist Health providers can review your risk factors and determine whether you qualify for screening.
Schedule a Colorectal Screening Today.
Locations Offering Colorectal Screening
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Most insurance plans, including Medicare, cover colorectal screenings (if there are no symptoms present) starting at age 45. Check with your provider for details.
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If results are normal, we generally recommend you repeat your colonoscopy in 10 years. If we find polyps, you may need screenings more often.
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Colonoscopy is a very safe procedure. Rare risks include bleeding or a small tear in the colon. Your care team will discuss your medical history and take steps to minimize any risks.
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Stool tests do not carry procedural risks since they are done at home. However, they cannot remove polyps. If a stool test result is abnormal, a follow-up colonoscopy is still needed for diagnosis and treatment.
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Many patients say the preparation is the most challenging part, but newer solutions and split dose instructions make it easier to tolerate. Following the prep closely helps ensure the most accurate results.
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Mild gas or bloating is common after a colonoscopy. This happens because air is used to expand the colon during the procedure. These symptoms usually pass within a few hours.
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If there are polyps, we can usually remove them during the colonoscopy. Your doctor will then test them to see if they’re cancerous or need more follow-up.
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Most patients do not feel pain during a colonoscopy because sedation is used to keep you comfortable. You may feel mild bloating or pressure afterward, but this usually goes away quickly.