5 Steps To Order Cologuard Test Online

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For individuals concerned about their colon health, ordering a Cologuard test online can be a convenient and non-invasive way to screen for colon cancer. This at-home test has revolutionized the way people approach colon cancer screening, making it more accessible and less intimidating. In this article, we will guide you through the 5 steps to order a Cologuard test online, highlighting the benefits, the process, and what to expect.

Step 1: Meet the Eligibility Criteria

Before ordering a Cologuard test online, it's essential to determine if you meet the eligibility criteria. The test is recommended for individuals aged 50-85 years who are at average risk for colon cancer. You should not have any symptoms of colon cancer, such as blood in your stool, persistent abdominal pain, or a family history of colon cancer. Additionally, you should not have had a colonoscopy or other colon cancer screening test in the past three years.

Key Considerations

• Age: 50-85 years
• Average risk for colon cancer
• No symptoms of colon cancer
• No recent colonoscopy or other screening tests

Step 2: Choose a Testing Option

Once you've determined your eligibility, you can choose a testing option that suits your needs. Cologuard offers two testing options: the Cologuard Test and the Cologuard Test with Reflex to Colonoscopy. The first option is a standalone test that screens for colon cancer, while the second option includes a reflex to colonoscopy if the test results are positive or unclear.

Key Considerations

• Cologuard Test: standalone screening test
• Cologuard Test with Reflex to Colonoscopy: includes reflex to colonoscopy for positive or unclear results

Step 3: Order the Test Online

With your testing option selected, you can now order the Cologuard test online. You can purchase the test directly from the Cologuard website or through a participating healthcare provider. If you choose to order through the website, you will need to provide some basic information, such as your name, date of birth, and contact details.

Key Considerations

• Order directly from the Cologuard website or through a participating healthcare provider
• Provide basic information, such as name, date of birth, and contact details

Step 4: Collect and Return the Stool Sample

Once you've received your Cologuard test kit, you will need to collect a stool sample and return it to the laboratory for analysis. The test kit includes a pre-paid return shipping label and a detailed instruction guide to ensure you collect the sample correctly.

Key Considerations

• Collect a stool sample using the provided collection device
• Return the sample to the laboratory using the pre-paid shipping label

Step 5: Receive and Understand Your Results

After the laboratory receives your stool sample, you will receive your test results within two weeks. If your results are negative, you will receive a letter stating that no DNA biomarkers associated with colon cancer were detected. If your results are positive or unclear, you will be contacted by a healthcare professional to discuss the next steps, which may include a colonoscopy.

Key Considerations

• Receive test results within two weeks
• Negative results: no DNA biomarkers associated with colon cancer detected
• Positive or unclear results: contact from a healthcare professional to discuss next steps

As you can see, ordering a Cologuard test online is a straightforward process that can help you take control of your colon health. By following these 5 steps, you can ensure that you're taking the necessary precautions to detect colon cancer early, when it's most treatable. Remember to always consult with a healthcare professional if you have any questions or concerns about the test or your results.