Core Concepts
Medicare coverage for multi-cancer tests is crucial for early detection and improved outcomes.
Abstract
The Senate introduced a bill to require Medicare to cover multi-cancer tests for beneficiaries. The Multi-Cancer Early Detection (MCED) Screening Coverage Act aims to provide coverage for innovative tests detecting multiple cancer types. Key points include:
Bill introduced by Senate Finance Committee members
Focus on early detection and clinical benefits
Establishment of a coverage pathway for FDA-approved MCED tests
Authorization for Medicare coverage of MCED screening tests
Emphasis on supplementing existing screenings
Bipartisan companion legislation in the House
Mention of the Galleri blood test and concerns about its readiness
Advocacy by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network
Stats
"The Multi-Cancer Early Detection (MCED) Screening Coverage Act (Senate bill 1873) would ensure that Medicare beneficiaries have coverage for innovative tests that can detect multiple types of cancer."
"The bill was initially introduced in 2021 and now has been reintroduced by Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Finance Committee member Michael Bennet (D-Colorado), along with Finance Committee members Tim Scott (R-South Carolina) and Ben Cardin (D-Maryland)."
"The Galleri blood test, manufactured by GRAIL, which can potentially detect up to 50 different cancers from a single blood draw."
"Currently, the Galleri blood test is offered by a number of US health networks but is not covered by medical insurance, so individuals have to pay around $950 for it out of pocket."
Quotes
"Detecting cancer early can be the difference between life and death." - Lisa Lacasse, MBA, president of ACS CAN