Bipartisan Legislation Aims to Expand Access to Life-Saving Genetic Testing for Cancer

U.S. Reps. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-02), Kim Schrier (WA-08), and Vern Buchanan (FL-13) have re-introduced bipartisan legislation to expand access to lifesaving genetic testing for individuals at risk of developing cancer. The Reducing Hereditary Cancer Act aims to remove barriers that prevent Medicare beneficiaries from accessing heritable cancer screens and medically necessary, guideline-recommended screening and preventative interventions.

Key Takeaways:

• The legislation would require coverage of guideline-recommended genetic testing for inherited mutations known to significantly increase cancer risk in two Medicare populations: those with a known hereditary cancer mutation in their family and those with a personal or family history suspicious for hereditary cancer.
• Under current law, Medicare only covers genetic testing for beneficiaries already diagnosed with cancer, regardless of family history or known genetic predisposition.
• The bill would enable coverage of appropriate follow-up services, including increased cancer screening, risk-reducing surgeries, and removal of ovaries and fallopian tubes, for Medicare beneficiaries who have an inherited mutation causing an increased risk of cancer.
• Patient advocacy groups widely support the legislation, arguing that it would remove barriers that block access to lifesaving genetic testing and help reduce health disparities.
• The legislation is supported by Reps. Wasserman Schultz, Miller-Meeks, Schrier, and Buchanan, who are committed to empowering patients with information about their cancer risk and promoting early detection and treatment.

Statistics:

• Currently, Medicare only covers genetic testing for beneficiaries already diagnosed with cancer, leaving out many individuals who could benefit from early detection and treatment.
• Knowledge of an inherited mutation can be lifesaving for an individual and their family members, guiding decisions regarding cancer screening and prevention.
• Access to more early detection and screening can detect cancer much earlier, when it is more easily and cost-effectively treated, resulting in better health outcomes and lower costs for Medicare and its beneficiaries.
• A total of 14 members of Congress have co-sponsored the Reducing Hereditary Cancer Act, demonstrating strong bipartisan support for expanding access to lifesaving genetic testing.

Sources:

• "U.S. Reps. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Mariannette Miller-Meeks, Kim Schrier, and Vern Buchanan Reintroduce Bipartisan Legislation to Expand Access to Genetic Testing for Cancer" (Washington: Office of the MP Debbie Wasserman Schultz)
• Press release from the office of U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz.