Wenstrup-sponsored bill gives Medicare patients faster access to breakthrough devices

A bipartisan bill led by U.S. Rep. Brad Wenstrup (R-OH) would ensure prompt coverage of breakthrough medical devices under the Medicare program in an effort to provide beneficiaries with faster access to those approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

“Seniors should be able to access the most innovative care and breakthrough devices as soon as we know these are deemed safe and effective by the FDA,” Rep. Wenstrup said on Wednesday. “They should not have to wait years for a Medicare coverage decision on life-saving treatments.”

Rep. Wenstrup on March 22 sponsored the 23-page Ensuring Patient Access to Critical Breakthrough Products Act of 2023, H.R. 1691, with seven original cosponsors, including U.S. Reps. Blake Moore (R-UT) and Suzan DelBene (D-WA).

If enacted, H.R. 1691 would require Medicare to temporarily cover breakthrough products for four years while the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services would be required to make a permanent coverage determination, according to a bill summary provided by Rep. Wenstrup’s staff. 

“With this legislation, millions of seniors could live longer, healthier lives, and companies that develop these innovative treatments would be supported in their investment in medical technologies and devices,” said Rep. Wenstrup.

Rep. DelBene agreed, saying America’s senior citizens should not have to wait years for cutting-edge, safe, and effective treatments. 

“Guaranteeing Medicare coverage of breakthrough medical devices would encourage future innovation and investment in next-generation medical technologies while improving the quality of life for millions of seniors,” said the congresswoman. “We can’t let the coverage approval process be a barrier to life-saving treatments or care.”