Rep. Brad Wenstrup
Medicare coverage would be extended to seniors who undergo virtual colonoscopy screenings to detect colorectal cancer under bipartisan legislation introduced by U.S. Rep. Brad Wenstrup (R-OH) on Thursday.
The CT Colonography Screening for Colorectal Cancer Act, H.R. 1298, would remove a financial barrier to screenings for colorectal cancer, which is the second-leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States.
“Early screening for colorectal cancer saves lives,” Wenstrup said. “Unfortunately, too many Americans fail to get screened because they feel current procedures are too invasive or they are unable to undergo the screening due to medical reasons. By covering an additional method of screening, Medicare can empower and equip seniors and physicians with another tool for preventive and lifesaving care.”
Wenstrup introduced the bipartisan bill with U.S. Rep. Danny Davis (D-IL), and colorectal cancer care advocacy groups have also thrown their support behind the measure.
“Medicare CT colonography coverage can jump-start screening by offering access to a less-invasive option that millions of screening age who choose not to be tested find more appealing,” Michael Sapienza, the president and CEO of the Colon Cancer Alliance, said.
Less-invasive approaches to colorectal cancer like CT colonography screening are especially appealing to patients in the Medicare population.
“This test requires no sedation and people can go back to daily activities afterward,” Carlson said. “Covering this patient-centered option will help save lives,” said Anne Carlson, the executive director of the Colon Cancer Coalition.