Industry groups, ACR call on Congress to pass Medicare bill for virtual colonoscopy coverage
Multiple patient and provider groups have joined the American College of Radiology (ACR) in their call on Congress to pass the CT Colonography Screening for Colorectal Cancer Act (S.3456/H.R. 1298), according to an ACR release.
Studies show CT colonography, often called virtual colonoscopy, “significantly” raises screening rates while lowering costs, the release stated. While the American Cancer Society recommends the exam, Medicare currently does not provide coverage for seniors.
Additionally, 37 states require insurance policies cover the exam, and insurers participating in the federal exchanges are mandated by the Affordable Care Act to cover virtual colonoscopies without copay.
“Medicare coverage of virtual colonoscopy can help increase screening in underserved areas and reduce racial and ethnic disparities in colorectal cancer outcomes,” said Anne Carlson, president of the Colon Cancer Coalition in the ACR statement. “All seniors should have covered access to the test that they will actually choose to have.”
A third of people 45 and older who should be screened for colorectal cancer (CRC) decline to do so. Latino Americans and African Americans are both more likely to die from CRC and less likely to be screened for the disease, the release noted.
The Prevent Cancer Foundation and Colorectal Cancer Alliance joined the ACR in fighting for the bill’s passage. It was introduced in the U.S. Senate Tuesday, Sept. 19 by Senators James M. Inhofe, R-Oklahoma, and Bernie Sanders, I-Vermont.
It’s companion bill was introduced into the U.S. House of Representatives Thursday, Sept. 13, with more than 85 cosponsors.
Matt joined Chicago’s TriMed team in 2018 covering all areas of health imaging after two years reporting on the hospital field. He holds a bachelor’s in English from UIC, and enjoys a good cup of coffee and an interesting documentary.