Colorectal Cancer Payment Fairness Act

Bill 118 HR 3382, also known as the Colorectal Cancer Payment Fairness Act, aims to address disparities in Medicare coverage for colorectal cancer screenings. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on June 25, 2021, by Representative Donald Payne Jr. from New Jersey.

Currently, Medicare covers several types of colorectal cancer screenings, including colonoscopies, sigmoidoscopies, and fecal occult blood tests. However, there is a discrepancy in coverage between these different screening methods. For example, while colonoscopies are fully covered by Medicare with no out-of-pocket costs for beneficiaries, other screenings may require copayments or coinsurance.

The Colorectal Cancer Payment Fairness Act seeks to eliminate this disparity by ensuring that all Medicare beneficiaries have access to colorectal cancer screenings without facing financial barriers. The bill would require Medicare to cover all FDA-approved colorectal cancer screenings, including colonoscopies, sigmoidoscopies, and fecal occult blood tests, with no cost-sharing for beneficiaries. By providing equal coverage for all colorectal cancer screenings, the Colorectal Cancer Payment Fairness Act aims to increase screening rates and improve early detection of colorectal cancer, ultimately saving lives and reducing healthcare costs. The bill has received bipartisan support and is currently awaiting further action in the House of Representatives.