Medicare coverage for prostate cancer screening

Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in American men, after skin cancer.¹ However, it is also very treatable when diagnosed early. The 5-year survival rate for localized prostate cancer is 90 percent.²

The screening test for prostate cancer is known as a PSA test. It’s a simple blood test that you can get during any doctor visit.

The PSA test measures prostate-specific antigen (PSA), which is made only by certain cells within the male prostate gland. A high PSA level could indicate prostate cancer or something else, such as an enlarged or inflamed prostate.

Medicare Part B pays for one prostate cancer screening test each year. You pay no out-of-pocket cost for a PSA test if your doctor accepts Medicare assignment, and the Part B deductible does not apply.

Medicare Advantage plans also cover a yearly PSA test. Check with your plan for coverage details.

Talk with your doctor about prostate cancer screening. You may hear different ideas about how often men need to have a PSA test so it’s important for you and your doctor to decide what’s best for you.