Yes, cancer screenings are eligible for reimbursement with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA).
Why Are Cancer Screenings FSA/HSA Eligible?
Cancer screenings are preventive medical services performed to detect cancer at an early stage when treatment is more likely to be successful. These services qualify as eligible medical expenses under IRS Code Section 213(d) because they are used for the diagnosis and prevention of disease.
According to IRS Publication 502, the cost of diagnostic and preventive procedures, including cancer screenings, is reimbursable. This applies whether the screening is part of a routine check-up or recommended due to family history or other risk factors.
FSA- and HSA-eligible cancer screenings may include:
Mammograms
Colonoscopies
Pap smears
Prostate exams (PSA tests)
Skin cancer screenings
Lung cancer CT scans (when medically indicated)
Genetic testing when ordered for medical reasons (e.g., BRCA testing)
These screenings are eligible regardless of whether the results are positive or negative, as long as they are ordered or recommended by a medical provider.
What’s Not Covered?
The following are not eligible:
At-home cancer screening kits not recommended by a healthcare provider
Cosmetic skin checks that are not performed for medical reasons
Genetic or DNA tests marketed for wellness or ancestry purposes
Services received outside of a clinical setting that lack diagnostic intent
To qualify, the screening must be for the purpose of identifying or preventing a medical condition and performed or ordered by a licensed provider.
How to Use Your FSA or HSA for Cancer Screenings
You can pay for cancer screenings directly using your FSA or HSA card at the point of service. If your insurance doesn’t fully cover the cost:
Save your itemized receipt or Explanation of Benefits (EOB)
Submit a claim to your FSA or HSA provider for reimbursement, if needed
Make sure the procedure is listed clearly as a screening or diagnostic test
For more information on eligible medical expenses, refer to IRS Publication 502.
