Fitzpatrick offers bipartisan Expanded Genetic Screening Act

A bipartisan bill sponsored on Monday by U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) would provide Medicaid coverage for noninvasive, prenatal genetic screenings, which use DNA from a pregnant woman’s blood to detect any genetic abnormalities.

“Genetic screenings are an important resource that many pregnant mothers choose to have in order to weigh risk factors,” Rep. Fitzpatrick said. “Our bipartisan legislation will expand access to these tests to increase flexibility for expectant mothers utilizing Medicaid benefits.”

The Expanded Genetic Screening Act, H.R. 5864, which is cosponsored by U.S. Rep. Yvette Clarke (D-NY), would amend the Social Security Act to permit Medicaid coverage for such screenings.

Rep. Clarke said that unlike those covered by private insurance plans, far too many women of color and working families do not have access to noninvasive prenatal tests due to gaps in state Medicaid.

“Noninvasive prenatal tests can reduce risky diagnostic testing, unnecessary terminations, and healthcare system costs,” said the congresswoman. “The Expanded Genetic Screening Act would expand coverage for noninvasive prenatal screenings to Medicaid beneficiaries, and I’m proud to fight for legislation that emphasizes equity and expands women’s access to care.”

H.R. 5864 has been referred to the U.S. House Energy and Commerce Committee for consideration.