What about people ineligible for the Program?

The Cancer Council Australia and NHMRC recommend everybody over the age of 50 be screened for bowel cancer with an FOBT every two years. Because screening for bowel cancer does not receive a Medicare rebate, those ineligible for the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program who are interested in being screened will need to pay for an FOBT.

The Bayer Detect FOBT used in the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program is not available commercially. There are a number of other options available on the market:

1. The !nform FOBT provided by enterix is available to order by the public. GPs can also order a bundle and distribute to patients. Individual FOBTs cost around $36. !nform FOBTs can be ordered by calling 1800 556575 or visiting www.enterix.com.au
2. GPs can refer a person to a pathology laboratory where one or a number of options of immunochemical and guaiac tests are available.
3. In the month of March, Rotary runs a BowelScan Program, selling guaiac FOBTs through selected pharmacies.
4. Some health insurance funds provide FOBTs.