Cologuard Order Process: For Healthcare Professionals & Patients
Quick Summary
- HCPs use official forms to order.
- Patients can request via telehealth.
- Prescription is always required.
- Insurance often covers eligible patients.
- Online portals for tracking and results.
The Cologuard test offers a convenient, non-invasive option for colorectal cancer screening. This guide simplifies the process for healthcare professionals (HCPs) to order tests and helps patients understand how to initiate and track their Cologuard kit. Whether you're an HCP seeking to streamline your practice's screening efforts or a patient ready to take proactive steps for your health, understanding the order process is key. Exact Sciences, the company behind Cologuard, provides dedicated resources to support both providers and patients. From initial eligibility checks to managing test results, their digital platforms and support services ensure a smooth experience. This resource is designed to navigate you through every aspect of securing a Cologuard test.
- 📋 Qualifying Patients for Cologuard Screening
- 📍 Managing Cologuard Test Orders Through Your Digital Portal
- ⭐ Optimizing Your Practice's Cologuard Workflow
- ⚠️ Navigating Provider Account Obstacles
- 🔒 Safeguarding Patient Data in the Cologuard Process
- 🎧 Official Help Desk Contacts
- ❓ Top Inquiries for Cologuard Ordering and Eligibility
Qualifying Patients for Cologuard Screening
- Licensed Healthcare Provider Authorization: Orders must come from a licensed healthcare provider authorized to order Cologuard.
- Medical Necessity: The ordering provider must certify that the test is medically necessary for the patient.
- Patient Eligibility: The Cologuard test is intended for adults aged 45 years or older who are at average risk for colorectal cancer.
- Exclusion Criteria: The Cologuard test is not for individuals at high risk, including those with a personal history of colorectal cancer or precancerous polyps, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a family history of colon cancer, or certain hereditary syndromes. It is also not a replacement for diagnostic or surveillance colonoscopy.
- Prescription: Cologuard is available by prescription only. Patients can obtain a prescription through their doctor or via an online telehealth service.
Managing Cologuard Test Orders Through Your Digital Portal
- Visit the Exact Sciences Patient Hub or Cologuard HCP portal for providers.
- Locate and click the "Log in" button, typically found in the top right corner.
- Enter your registered Email address in the designated field.
- Input your secure Password.
- Click the "LOG IN" button to access your digital portal.
- For new users or those without a direct portal login, explore options like EpicCare Link™ or other customized electronic health record (EHR) integrations detailed on the Cologuard HCP site.
Optimizing Your Practice's Cologuard Workflow
- Multiple Ordering Channels: Healthcare providers can order tests via secure fax/eFax, through EpicCare Link™, or integrate customized electronic options with their EHR or lab ordering systems for efficient processing.
- Insurance Verification: Exact Sciences verifies patient insurance coverage to ensure the correct Cologuard test (Cologuard or Cologuard Plus) is sent based on reimbursement and coverage.
- Patient Navigation Program: Exact Sciences offers a comprehensive program that includes email and mobile phone reminders, as well as support for test completion, when patient contact information is provided on the order form.
- Order and Result Tracking: Both patients (via their personal account) and providers (via portals like Exact Sciences Patient Hub or EpicCare Link) can track order status and view test results.
- Provider Status Reports: HCPs can enroll to receive biweekly fax updates on their Cologuard orders and summaries of eligible patients due for rescreening.
- Comprehensive Resources: Access to educational materials and discussion guides to support patient conversations about colorectal cancer screening and test results.
Navigating Provider Account Obstacles
⚠️ Forgot Provider Portal Password
Cause: Unable to recall login credentials for the Exact Sciences Patient Hub or Provider Login.
Solution: On the login page, click the "Reset password" link. Follow the prompts to verify your identity and set a new password for your digital portal access.
⚠️ Expired Cologuard Kit
Cause: A Cologuard kit has passed its one-year expiration date from the order date.
Solution: Patients should call Customer Care at 1-844-870-8870. A new kit can be shipped at no additional cost.
⚠️ Incorrect Sample Collection
Cause: A patient made an error while collecting their sample, or the sample cannot be shipped within the recommended timeframe.
Solution: Patients should contact Customer Care at 1-844-870-8870. A new Cologuard kit can be sent if needed, at no additional charge.
⚠️ Portal Access Issues (Browser/Compatibility)
Cause: Problems logging into the provider portal due to browser settings like disabled JavaScript or cookies, or using an unsupported browser.
Solution: Ensure your web browser has JavaScript and cookies enabled. The portal supports modern versions of Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Mozilla Firefox, and Apple Safari. Update your browser or adjust settings as necessary.
Safeguarding Patient Data in the Cologuard Process
- 🔒 HIPAA Compliance: Healthcare providers are responsible for ensuring the privacy of patient test results and related information in accordance with HIPAA regulations.
- 🔒 Patient Authorization: Patients provide authorization to Exact Sciences Laboratories for billing insurance, furnishing order information, and test results for reimbursement purposes.
- 🔒 Secure Information Exchange: When using electronic ordering options like EpicCare Link or customized EHR interfaces, these systems are designed to ensure the secure transmission of patient data.
- 🔒 Avoid Sharing PHI in General Inquiries: When contacting support via general web forms, refrain from including protected health information (PHI) for patient privacy.
🎧 Official Support & Help Center
1-844-870-8870 (Customer Care, available daily 6 AM to 10 PM CT)
Top Inquiries for Cologuard Ordering and Eligibility
Q: Who is eligible for the Cologuard test?
The Cologuard test is designed for adults aged 45 years or older who are at average risk for colorectal cancer. It is not suitable for individuals with a history of colorectal cancer, certain polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, or specific genetic syndromes that place them at high risk.
Q: Do patients need a prescription for Cologuard?
Yes, Cologuard is a prescription-only test. Patients can obtain a prescription from their healthcare provider during an in-office visit or by using Cologuard's online telehealth service.
Q: How do I track a Cologuard order or test results?
Patients can track their order status and view results by logging into their personal account on Cologuard.com or the Exact Sciences Patient Hub. Healthcare providers can monitor orders and access results through platforms like EpicCare Link or by receiving biweekly Provider Status Reports.
Q: How much does Cologuard cost, and is it covered by insurance?
Most insured patients who are 45 years or older and at average risk for colon cancer typically pay $0. Medicare, a growing number of Medicaid plans, and most major insurers cover the Cologuard test. Coverage can vary by state, region, and individual insurance plans. You can call Customer Care for assistance with insurance inquiries.
Q: What happens if a Cologuard kit expires or the sample is collected incorrectly?
Cologuard kits are valid for one year from the order date. If your kit has expired or if you made a mistake during sample collection, you should contact Customer Care at 1-844-870-8870. A new kit can be provided at no additional cost.
Q: What information is typically required on a Cologuard Order Requisition Form?
A Cologuard Order Requisition Form generally requires comprehensive patient information (full name, date of birth, insurance details), complete provider information (name, contact, NPI), and certification that the test is medically necessary for an eligible patient.
Wrap Up
The Cologuard order process is designed to be accessible and efficient for both healthcare providers and patients. By understanding the eligibility criteria, utilizing the available ordering methods, and leveraging the digital tools for managing tests, you can effectively incorporate Cologuard into your screening regimen or patient care strategy. Exact Sciences remains committed to supporting early colorectal cancer detection through convenient and scientifically backed solutions.