Metastatic Breast Cancer Access to Care Act
Metastatic Breast Cancer Access to Care Act
Plain Language Summary
# Metastatic Breast Cancer Access to Care Act Summary **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would speed up financial assistance for people diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer (cancer that has spread beyond the breast to other parts of the body). Currently, people with disabilities must wait 5 months before receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits and another 24 months before becoming eligible for Medicare. This bill would eliminate both waiting periods for metastatic breast cancer patients, allowing them to receive benefits and health insurance coverage immediately upon approval. **Who It Affects and Current Status** The bill would help metastatic breast cancer patients who are unable to work and need financial support and health insurance.
It affects a relatively small population—people with this specific, advanced form of cancer—but could significantly ease their financial burden during treatment. The bill was introduced by Rep. Andrew Garbarino (R-NY) and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives.
CRS Official Summary
Metastatic Breast Cancer Access to Care Act This bill expedites payment of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits and eligibility for Medicare coverage for those with metastatic breast cancer (i.e., breast cancer that has spread to other sites in the body). Specifically, the bill eliminates the 5-month waiting period for SSDI benefits and the subsequent 24-month waiting period for Medicare coverage for individuals with metastatic breast cancer. Under current law, individuals generally must wait 5 months after the onset of disability to begin receiving SSDI benefits and an additional 24 months to become eligible for Medicare.
Latest Action
Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.