My doctor requested that I get a diagnostic colonoscopy. Because I needed one under my insurance plan I had to pay the full cost, over $3k. If I didn't need one it would be a "screening" colonoscopy, and covered in full by the insurance.

Under what logic does that make sense, that you get insurance coverage for a procedure but only if you don't really need it? Does it work like that anywhere outside of the U.S.?

The colonoscopy was completely clear. Two years later I was having constipation and bloating problems and went to a gastroenterologist. He examined me, asked a bunch of questions, and I asked for his advice. He said he really couldn't tell me anything ... without a colonoscopy. The two year old one didn't tell him enough, he said.

Now I'm supposed to drop another $3k, very likely for another clear test result, just to hear what the doctor says I should do about my constipation and bloating?

It felt like a scam. Instead of getting advice from a specialist M.D. I was driven to get it from the internet. And dang if it didn't work. I went on a low-residue diet that resolved my digestive problems almost immediately and has had numerous other benefits. My diabetes is in complete remission, I've lost weight, etc. But when I asked the gastroenterologist if diet changes would help, his answer was short and simple: "No."

So I'm very happy to see far less expensive alternatives. One less leverage point for the health care system to empty my wallet.