S.339 - Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.339, the Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act, aims to amend Title XVIII of the Social Security Act to include Medicare coverage for multi-cancer early detection screening tests. The bill defines these tests as those that concurrently detect multiple cancer types across multiple organ sites, cleared or approved by the FDA, and deemed reasonable and necessary by the Secretary of Health and Human Services. The Act specifies payment amounts and limitations, including age-based restrictions until the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) issues a grade of A or B recommendation.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would expand Medicare coverage to include multi-cancer early detection screening tests, potentially leading to earlier diagnosis and treatment of various cancers for Medicare beneficiaries. The payment structure is initially tied to the payment amount for multi-target stool screening DNA tests, with future payments potentially determined under section 1834A of the Social Security Act.
Potential Benefits
- Early Cancer Detection: Increased access to early detection screening could improve survival rates and treatment outcomes.
- Expanded Healthcare Access: Medicare beneficiaries would have access to a broader range of screening options.
- Innovation in Cancer Screening: The bill encourages the development and use of advanced genomic sequencing and other technologies for cancer detection.
- Potential Cost Savings: Early detection can lead to less expensive and more effective treatment options.
- Improved Public Health: By addressing multiple cancers concurrently, the bill could have a significant impact on overall public health.
Potential Disadvantages
- Cost Implications: The financial impact on the Medicare system is uncertain, especially if the tests are widely adopted.
- Age Restrictions: The initial age-based limitations could exclude some beneficiaries who might benefit from early screening.
- Regulatory Hurdles: The requirement for FDA clearance or approval could delay the availability of new tests.
- Uncertainty in Payment Amounts: The payment structure after 2031 is subject to change and could affect the financial viability of test providers.
- Potential for Overdiagnosis: Increased screening may lead to the detection of cancers that would not have become clinically significant, resulting in unnecessary treatment.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the Constitution is primarily through the Necessary and Proper Clause (Article I, Section 8), which grants Congress the power to enact laws necessary for carrying out its enumerated powers, such as providing for the general welfare through Medicare. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any individual rights or liberties protected by the Bill of Rights.
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).