Summary of Bill HR 4286
Bill 118 hr 4286, also known as the Increasing Access to Lung Cancer Screening Act, aims to improve access to lung cancer screening for individuals at high risk of developing the disease. The bill specifically focuses on increasing coverage for low-dose computed tomography (CT) scans, which are an effective method for detecting lung cancer in its early stages.
The bill proposes several key provisions, including expanding Medicare coverage for lung cancer screening to include individuals who are at high risk for developing the disease. This would allow more individuals to receive regular screenings, potentially leading to earlier detection and improved outcomes for those diagnosed with lung cancer.
Additionally, the bill seeks to increase awareness and education about the importance of lung cancer screening, particularly among high-risk populations such as current and former smokers. By promoting greater understanding of the benefits of early detection, the bill aims to encourage more individuals to undergo screening and potentially reduce the number of late-stage lung cancer diagnoses.
Overall, the Increasing Access to Lung Cancer Screening Act is designed to address the significant public health challenge posed by lung cancer, which remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. By expanding access to screening and promoting greater awareness of its importance, the bill has the potential to save lives and improve outcomes for individuals at high risk of developing lung cancer.
Congressional Summary of HR 4286
Increasing Access to Lung Cancer Screening Act
This bill provides for coverage without prior authorization requirements of annual lung cancer screenings under Medicaid, Medicare, and private health insurance for individuals for whom screenings are recommended under U.S. Preventive Services Task Force guidelines. It also expands Medicaid coverage of counseling and pharmacotherapy for cessation of tobacco use to all individuals, rather than only pregnant women.
The Department of Health and Human Services must conduct outreach on the importance of lung cancer screenings and who should be screened, and the Government Accountability Office must report on the demographics of those diagnosed with lung cancer and recommend ways the federal government can improve screenings.