Are there any good alternative to colonoscopy to screen for colon cancer?

DEAR DOCTOR K: I heard about a new home test that detects colon cancer. Is it a good alternative to colonoscopy?
DEAR READER: The new test appears to be an advance, but I don't think it's as good as colonoscopy. Particularly for people who are at higher risk for colon cancer, I regard colonoscopy as the best test.