Bills of Congress by U.S. Congress

H.R.1620 - Finn Sawyer Access to Cancer Testing Act (119th Congress)

Summary

H.R.1620, the Finn Sawyer Access to Cancer Testing Act, aims to improve cancer treatment by facilitating the development of new therapies. It mandates coverage of cancer diagnostic and laboratory tests under Medicare, Medicaid, and CHIP. The bill also establishes an education and awareness program on genomic testing for physicians and the public.

Expected Effects

The Act will expand access to advanced cancer diagnostic tests, including genomic sequencing, for Medicare, Medicaid, and CHIP beneficiaries. This could lead to more personalized and effective cancer treatments. The education program may also improve understanding and utilization of genomic testing in cancer care.

Potential Benefits

  • Improved Cancer Treatment: Increased access to advanced diagnostic tests can lead to more targeted and effective treatments.
  • Early Detection: Broader testing coverage may enable earlier detection of cancer and recurrence.
  • Reduced Healthcare Costs (Potential): More precise treatments could reduce the need for ineffective therapies, lowering overall costs in the long run.
  • Enhanced Public Health: The education program can raise awareness about genomic testing and its benefits.
  • Support for Innovation: Encourages development and use of innovative cancer diagnostic technologies.

Potential Disadvantages

  • Increased Healthcare Costs (Short-Term): Expanding coverage will likely increase initial costs for Medicare, Medicaid, and CHIP.
  • Administrative Complexity: Implementing new coverage policies and payment structures can be complex.
  • Potential for Overutilization: Unclear guidelines could lead to unnecessary testing.
  • Strain on Resources: Increased demand for genomic testing may strain laboratory resources and workforce.
  • Delayed Implementation: The Medicaid and CHIP provisions have a delayed effective date (January 1, 2027), potentially delaying access for some populations.

Constitutional Alignment

The bill aligns with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble). Congress has the power to tax and spend to provide for the general welfare, which includes healthcare. The expansion of Medicare, Medicaid, and CHIP falls under this power. There are no apparent infringements on individual rights or liberties.

Impact Assessment: Things You Care About

This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).