Finn Sawyer Access to Cancer Testing Act
Finn Sawyer Access to Cancer Testing Act
Plain Language Summary
# Finn Sawyer Access to Cancer Testing Act Summary **What the Bill Does:** The Finn Sawyer Access to Cancer Testing Act would require Medicare, Medicaid, and CHIP (the Children's Health Insurance Program) to cover advanced genetic tests for cancer patients. These tests—including microarray analysis, DNA/RNA sequencing, and whole-exome sequencing—help identify the specific genetic characteristics of a person's cancer to guide treatment decisions. The bill also directs the Department of Health and Human Services to create educational programs for doctors and the public about genetic testing and the role of genetic counselors. **Who It Affects:** This bill would primarily benefit cancer patients enrolled in Medicare (seniors and some disabled individuals), Medicaid (lower-income individuals), and CHIP (children and families).
It could also indirectly affect healthcare providers, insurance programs, and genetic counselors. By expanding coverage, the bill aims to ensure that financial barriers don't prevent patients from accessing tests that could improve their treatment outcomes. **Current Status:** The bill is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives. It was sponsored by Representative Doris Matsui (D-CA).
CRS Official Summary
Finn Sawyer Access to Cancer Testing Act This bill provides for coverage of certain cancer diagnostic and laboratory tests under Medicare, Medicaid, and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Specifically, the bill provides for coverage of microarray analysis, DNA and RNA sequencing, whole-exome sequencing, and other next-generation sequencing for individuals diagnosed with cancer. Additionally, the Department of Health and Human Services must establish an education and awareness program for physicians and the public about genomic testing and the role of genetic counselors.
Latest Action
Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.