Managing False-Positive Screening Results & Callbacks

This page is for anyone who has been called back after a cancer screening test. It explains what the next steps often are and how to get through the wait.

Most people are told some version of "we saw something and we want another look." That means the screening test could not settle the question. It does not mean a cancer was found. NCI says most people who are called back after a mammogram are not found to have breast cancer.

Mammogram reports use BI-RADS categories. NCI explains that these give radiologists a consistent way to report findings, along with the recommended follow-up. The categories run from 0 ("need additional imaging evaluation") to 6 ("known biopsy-proven malignancy").

A category of 0 usually means you come back for more images. Other categories lead to other plans, which can include a repeat image later or a biopsy. Ask your team which category you were given and what the plan is, and why.

• Positive stool test (FIT, FIT-DNA, gFOBT). CDC says a colonoscopy is needed to complete the screening process. It lets doctors examine the whole colon and remove polyps or cancers that may be there.
• Positive HPV test. NCI notes that abnormal cervical screening can lead to further exams such as colposcopy, a closer look at the cervix. Which step comes next depends on your results, so ask your team.
• Lung screening CT. NCI says an abnormal result may be followed by more tests, such as a biopsy. Many abnormal results turn out not to be cancer.
• Elevated PSA. NCI says the next step is often another PSA test in 6 to 8 weeks to confirm the result. PSA levels can rise for short periods, for example with prostate infection or inflammation, a recent biopsy, vigorous exercise such as cycling, or ejaculation. If it stays high, doctors may order more tests, including MRI, and may suggest a biopsy.

When the call comes, ask what was seen, what the next test is, and when it will happen. Then ask who calls you with the result and by what date. If that date passes, call.

If earlier mammograms or scans were done elsewhere, ask whether having them sent to the new center would help.

CDC says most health insurance covers colorectal cancer screening tests without a deductible or copay. Follow-up care can be handled differently, so ask your plan and the scheduler how the follow-up will be billed before the appointment.

For Original Medicare, Medicare.gov says a follow-up colonoscopy after a positive stool-based or blood-based test is covered. If a polyp is removed, you pay 15% of the Medicare-approved amount for the provider's services. In a hospital outpatient department or surgery center, a 15% facility coinsurance also applies. The Part B deductible does not apply. For Medicare questions, call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).

The gap between "we saw something" and "here is what it is" is hard, and most of it is out of your hands. Here is what is in your hands:

• Know the date the result is due.
• Bring someone to the appointment or to the phone call.
• Write your questions down in advance.

If the finding turns out to be nothing, the trip was not wasted. Follow-up testing exists to answer exactly this question.

Checked on 2026-10-02:

• NCI - Mammograms fact sheet (BI-RADS, callbacks)
• NCI - PSA test fact sheet
• NCI - Cervical cancer screening
• NCI - Lung cancer screening (patient version)
• CDC - Colorectal cancer screening
• Medicare.gov - Colonoscopies