Summary of Bill S 339
Bill 119 s 339, also known as the Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act, aims to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to include coverage for multi-cancer early detection screening tests under Medicare.
The bill proposes that Medicare, the federal health insurance program for individuals aged 65 and older, should cover the costs of multi-cancer early detection screening tests. These tests are designed to detect a wide range of cancers at an early stage, when they are more treatable and have a higher chance of successful outcomes.
By providing coverage for these screening tests, the bill seeks to improve early detection of cancer among Medicare beneficiaries, potentially leading to earlier treatment and better health outcomes. This could ultimately result in cost savings for the Medicare program by reducing the need for more expensive treatments for advanced stage cancers.
The bill does not specify which specific multi-cancer early detection screening tests would be covered under Medicare, leaving that decision to be determined by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) based on recommendations from medical experts and stakeholders.
Overall, the Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act aims to improve access to early cancer detection for Medicare beneficiaries, potentially leading to better health outcomes and cost savings for the Medicare program.