DOCTOR REVIEWS

What Doctors Say About Cologuard®

Simple, noninvasive, and effective, the Cologuard test has been the choice of many to screen for colon cancer in their own time, at their own place. But what about doctors? Let’s find out if they are on board and what they really think of Cologuard.
Exact Sciences | March 2026
A patient in consultation with a doctor.

In 2014, Cologuard became the first multi-target stool DNA test approved by the FDA. Since then, it has been used to screen for colorectal cancer more than 20 million times.1

Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows the use of Cologuard is a key reason for the rise in colon cancer screening rates among Americans aged 50-75. Screening rates jumped from 63% in 2015 to 72% in 2021.2 A study from EPIC research also revealed that the number of people aged 45-49 who completed screening with the Cologuard test tripled from 2021 to 2023.3

It doesn’t come as a surprise, then, that over 340,000 doctors and health care providers4 trust Cologuard for their patients 45 and older, who are at average risk for colon cancer. They are confident that offering Cologuard is the best first step to colon cancer screening due to its high performance and proven results. Let’s meet a couple of them and see what they have to say.

Dr Chuck Vega, MD, in a white coat and stethoscope, smiling with arms crossed.
Provider has been compensated for sharing his expertise and consulting for Exact Sciences.

A game changer in colon cancer prevention

With over 20 years of experience at a federally qualified health center, Dr. Chuck Vega is passionate about driving change as he continues to expand access to quality care for underserved communities.

“The Cologuard test’s ability to detect advanced precancerous lesions is a big game changer in the prevention of colorectal cancer,” Dr. Vega shares. ”When patients understand their options and hear from a trusted voice, they’re more likely to follow through — improving outcomes and preventing more cases of colorectal cancer before they start.”

Dr James Schultz, MD, in a white coat and stethoscope, smiling with arms crossed.
Provider volunteered his expertise.

Accessible screening to meet national screening goals

Dr. James Schulz, a strong advocate for removing barriers to care through leadership, advocacy, and innovation, appreciates what Cologuard has brought to his patients.

“With limited GI availability in my practice area, our health center generally does not refer patients to screening for colonoscopy,” Dr. Schulz says. “Using the Cologuard test may be the best chance we have to meet the national goal to screen 80% of all eligible patients. With the additional support that comes with it, Cologuard has eased the burden on our staff, making it easier to reach national screening goals and take meaningful steps toward closing the screening gap in our community.”

Safe.
Noninvasive.
FDA-approved.

The most important thing is to get screened

Colon cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, yet it remains one of the least prevented.5 This is why doctors now offer screening methods that meet patients where they are more than ever.

For people who are 45 and older with an average risk for colon cancer, the Cologuard test is a noninvasive, use-at-home screening kit that doesn’t require prep, taking time off, or changing your diet. Convenient and effective, it’s one of several screening options available to you.

It’s important to know that Cologuard can detect but not prevent colon cancer. It also does not replace a colonoscopy. Whether you choose Cologuard or another method, the most important step is to get screened. Make an appointment and have a conversation with your doctor about your risks so you can decide which screening option is best for you.