While they may offer an alternative route, colonoscopy remains the gold standard in screening for colon cancer. It’s a one-step screening test. That means we can detect and remove polyps during the same procedure. No alternative can replace a good colonoscopy done by a qualified and experienced gastroenterologist. If you’re at average risk of colon cancer and you’re reluctant to get a colonoscopy, ask your doctor if an at-home test kit is an acceptable alternative for you. Any positive at-home test should be followed by a colonoscopy. You should also check with your insurance provider to discuss your policy’s coverage for colonoscopies and the home test kits. Whatever your choice, I urge patients to commit to regular cancer screenings as recommended by your doctor for your age and family history. Your risk of getting colon cancer will be dramatically lower when you do. Editor's Note: This article was originally published on June 13, 2022, and was last reviewed on June 22, 2023.