WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) introduced the Reducing Hereditary Cancer Act (RHCA), bipartisan legislation to expand Medicare coverage for genetic testing, screenings, and preventative care for individuals with a family history of hereditary cancer.
“I lost my mother to ovarian cancer in 2011 when she was 64, and my grandmother died of ovarian cancer at age 39,” said Senator Slotkin. “The pain caused by hereditary cancers is shared among so many in Michigan, while too many lack access to the genetic screening they need. This bill will save lives by doing something simple, expanding Medicare’s coverage of genetic testing and treatment.”
“The Reducing Hereditary Cancer Act paves the way for greater access to testing and preventative procedures, giving those with a family history of cancer access to the care they need – before cancer takes hold,” Senator Murkowski said.“Too many Alaskans and Americans nationwide face barriers to early detection and interventions. This bill will give families more control over their health and future.”
“Genetic testing is a valuable tool in determining whether an individual is at an increased risk of developing cancer. Once identified, those at higher risk can take proactive steps, such as increased cancer screening to detect cancer earlier when it is easier and less expensive to treat, or risk-reducing surgery. Commercial insurance plans and most Medicaid programs cover guideline-recommended genetic testing and the appropriate follow-up care. Medicare is the outlier in not covering these crucial services. The Reducing Hereditary Cancer Act will provide Medicare beneficiaries with coverage, which is a win for patients and the Medicare program. By reducing the number of advanced-stage cancer diagnoses, we not only save lives but also lower healthcare costs,” said Lisa Schlager, Vice President, Public Policy, FORCE.
“Genetic testing, services to reduce cancer risk, and screenings to detect cancer early are essential services for people with a known familial risk of cancer. Unfortunately, today, Medicare beneficiaries cannot access these medically necessary services without paying out of pocket”said Alyssa Schatz, DrPH, MSW, Vice President Policy and Advocacy, National Comprehensive Cancer Network® (NCCN®), a nonprofit alliance of leading cancer centers responsible for evidence-based, expert consensus-driven guidelines for genetic/familial risk reduction and other topics. “We at NCCN applaud the bipartisan sponsors of the ‘Reducing Hereditary Cancer Act’ for taking action to ensure Medicare recipients with increased cancer risk have access to this lifesaving care.”
The RHCA would bring Medicare coverage in line with most private insurance and Medicaid programs, helping more Americans take proactive steps to detect and prevent cancer early.
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