This chart includes past policy and legislative opportunities at the federal level.
| Year Introduced | Issue | Type (Letter, Regulation Comments, Legislation) | Bill Number & Title | Description | Position Statements & Coalition and Triage Cancer Letter of Support | Status | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2024
|
Insurance Coverage | Letter | https://autoimmune.org/advocacy/understanding-step-therapy/ | CVS Letter re: Unrestricted Insurance Coverage for Physician Suggested Treatments | We have seen increased step therapy or “fail first” policies that restrict access to new, innovative, and advanced treatments– regardless of what is best for the patient or what their provider prescribes. All too often, these policies lead to delayed care and illness for individuals living with chronic disease. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/CVSAccessPatientLetter.pdf | Advocacy Efforts Ongoing |
|
2024
|
Insurance Coverage | Letter | https://autoimmune.org/advocacy/understanding-step-therapy/ | Express Scripts: Unrestricted Insurance Coverage for Physician Suggested Treatments | We have seen increased step therapy or “fail first” policies that restrict access to new, innovative, and advanced treatments– regardless of what is best for the patient or what their provider prescribes. All too often, these policies lead to delayed care and illness for individuals living with chronic disease. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/ExpressScriptsAccessPatientLetter-1.pdf | Advocacy Efforts Ongoing |
|
2024
|
Insurance Coverage | Letter | https://autoimmune.org/advocacy/understanding-step-therapy/ | Unrestricted Insurance Coverage for Physician Suggested Treatments | We have seen increased step therapy or “fail first” policies that restrict access to new, innovative, and advanced treatments– regardless of what is best for the patient or what their provider prescribes. All too often, these policies lead to delayed care and illness for individuals living with chronic disease. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/OptumAccessPatientLetter.pdf | Advocacy Efforts Ongoing |
|
2024
|
Medicare | Letter | https://www.cms.gov/inflation-reduction-act-and-medicare | Medicare Part D Low-Income Subsidy | Letter to thank the Biden Administration for implementingCongress’ expansion starting in January 2024 of the full Medicare Part D Low-Income Subsidy (LIS, or “ExtraHelp”) | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/NCOA-letter-to-CMS-on-LIS-recommendations-1.pdf | Passed into Law |
|
2024
|
Access to Care | Letter | https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/2407/text | H.R.2407 - Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act | Letter applauding The Honorable Jodey Arrington and The Honorable Terri Sewell for sponsoring and prioritizing the passage of the NancyGardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act (HR 2407), whichwill provide the Medicare program the authority to cover multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/MCED-House-Sponsor-Letter.pdf | House - 12/17/2024 Reported (Amended) by the Committee on Ways and Means. |
|
2023
|
Medicaid Expansion | Letter | https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/5434/text | H.R.5434 - Stabilize Medicaid and CHIP Coverage Act | Letter recommending 12-month continuous eligibilityfor adults in Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) by passing the StabilizeMedicaid and CHIP Coverage Act (H.R. 5434 and S. 3138) | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Adult-CE-Sign-On-FINAL-081324.pdf | House - 09/15/2023 Referred to the Subcommittee on Health. |
|
2024
|
Access to Care | Letter | https://www.fightcancer.org/sites/default/files/acs_can_sign-on_letter_cy2025_medicare_pin_pfs_nprm_final_09.09.2024.pdf | Principal Illness Navigation (PIN) provisions of the CY 2025 Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) | Letter in support of Principal Illness Navigation (PIN) provisions of the CY 2025 Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) FY 2025 Budget Proposal. | Support | https://www.fightcancer.org/sites/default/files/acs_can_sign-on_letter_cy2025_medicare_pin_pfs_nprm_final_09.09.2024.pdf | Not Included in FY 2025 |
|
2024
|
Research and development | Letter | https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/4638 | S.4638 - National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 | Letter in support of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that calls for a report on a plan forHelicobacter Pylori (H. pylori) testing for certain members of the Armed Forces. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/H.-pylori-NDAA-Letter-10.18.24.pdf | https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/4638 |
|
2024
|
Paid Family Leave | Letter | https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/7165/text/ih | H.R.7165 - Credit for Caring Act of 2024 | This legislation would create a new, nonrefundablefederal tax credit for eligible working family caregivers to help address the financialchallenges of caregiving.Family | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Financial-Relief-for-Family-Caregivers-Credit-for-Caring-Act-Sign-on-Letter-December-2024.pdf | House - 01/31/2024 Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means. |
|
2023
|
Access to Care | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/2372 | H.R. 4758/S. 2372, the Accelerating Kids’ Access to Care Act | This bill requires state Medicaid programs to establish a process through which qualifying out-of-state providers may enroll as participating providers for five years without undergoing additional screening requirements, unless the state has an agreement with other states that governs coverage of children with medically complex conditions that is in accordance with specified guidance from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/12.2.24-AKACA-EOY-Community-Support-Letter-FINAL.pdf | Senate - 07/19/2023 Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance. |
|
2024
|
Medicare | Letter | https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/contract-year-2026-policy-and-technical-changes-medicare-advantage-program-medicare-prescription#:~:text=In%20the%20Contract%20Year%202024,be%20covered%20by%20MA%20plans. | Letter on Guardrails for Utilization Management in Medicare Part D | We are writing to underscore the importance of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) ensuring that they are taking action to protect Medicare beneficiaries’ access to needed therapies as reforms to the Part D program take effect for the upcoming Calendar Year (CY) 2025. The higher level of cost sharing for prescription drug plan (PDP) creates incentives for plans to expand their use of utilization management (UM) tools such as step therapy, prior authorizations, refill limits, and changes in formularies. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Letter-on-guardrails-against-UM-Final.pdf | Past |
|
2024
|
Access to Care | Letter | chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.cms.gov/Research-Statistics-Data-and-Systems/Statistics-Trends-and-Reports/Reports/Downloads/LewinGroup.pdf | Medicare Long Term Care Pharmacy Benefits | Letter requesting that you expandbeneficiary access to LTC pharmacy services to their home. CMS currently possessescertain statutory authorities to mandate that Medicare Advantage and Part D plans provideappropriate reimbursement and support for LTC pharmacy services delivered to patientsliving at home who require an LTC level of care. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/LTCP-at-Home-Patient-Letter-2024.pdf | Past |
|
2024
|
Access to Care | Letter | https://debbiesdream.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Evicore-Letter_Final_08.15.2024-1.pdf | Letter to EviCore re: Denials of Care | Letter expressing concern that EviCore is denying patients access to genetic testing because their provider does not explain in the notes why the "most significant family member" was not tested first. | Support | https://debbiesdream.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Evicore-Letter_Final_08.15.2024-1.pdf | Policy was not changed |
|
2023
|
Access to Care | Letter | https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/3892/text/is | S.3892 - Community Health Worker Access Act | This bill would improve access to Community Health Worker services for Medicare and Medicaidenrollees. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/CHW-Access-Act-Sign-on-Final-12-8-2023.pdf | Senate - 03/07/2024 Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance. |
|
2023
|
Clinical Trials | Letter | https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=granuleid:USC-2023-title42-section1320a-7b&num=0&edition=2023 | 42 USC 1320a-7b: Criminal Penalties for Acts Involving Federal Health Care Programs | Safe harbor provision would allow patient non-medical costs incident to clinical trial participation, such as travel and parking, to be paid for by those conducting the trial. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/ACS-CAN_-Proposed-Safe-Harbor-2024_PartnersFinal2024.pdf | Letter of support submitted, no congressional action taken |
|
2023
|
Access to Care | Letter | https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/485 | H.R.485 - Protecting Health Care for All Patients Act of 2023 | This bill prohibits all federal health care programs, including the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program, and federally funded state health care programs (e.g., Medicaid) from using prices that are based on quality-adjusted life years (i.e., measures that discount the value of a life based on disability, age, or terminal illness) to determine relevant thresholds for coverage, reimbursements, or incentive programs. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/H.R.-485-QALY-Ban-Bill-Sign-on-Letter-105-FINAL.pdf | House - 12/17/2024 Referred to the Subcommittee on Health. |
|
2024
|
Medicare | Letter | https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/8702 | H.R.8702 - Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act of 2024 | This bill would streamline health plan bureaucracy for Medicare patients.The Improving Seniors' Timely Access to Care Act (H.R. 8702/S. 4532) aims to streamline health plan bureaucracy for Medicare patients. It establishes an electronic prior authorization standard, reduces the time for prior authorization consideration, and requires Medicare Advantage plans to report on their use of prior authorization. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Seniors-Act-Endorsement-List.pdf | House - 12/17/2024 Referred to the Subcommittee on Health. |
|
2024
|
Oral Chemo Parity | Letter | https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/6301/text | Cancer Drug Parity Act (H.R. 6301/S. 2039) | This bill lowers costs for cancer patients prescribed oral medications by requiring that health insurers provide coverage for oral cancer treatments that is equivalent to conventional intravenous (IV) treatments. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/CIACC-Letterhead-ERISA-50-Draft.pdf | House - 11/08/2023 Referred to the House Committee on Education and the Workforce; Senate - 06/15/2023 Read twice and referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. |
|
2024
|
Essential Health Benefits | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/2407/text | H.R.2407 - Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act | Prevent Cancer Foundation Letter in support of H.R.2407 - Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act which would direct Medicare to cover the costs of Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Nancy-Gardner-Sewell-Medicare-Multi-Cancer-Early-Detection-Screening-Coverage-Industry-Letter.pdf | House - 12/17/2024 Reported (Amended) by the Committee on Ways and Means. H. Rept. 118-893 |
|
2024
|
Access to Care | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/3892/text/is | Community Health Worker Access Act (S. 3892) | Letter in support of the Community Health Worker Access Act (S. 3892) which would improve access to care for recipients Medicare & Medicaid. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/CHW-Access-Act-Sign-on-Final-4-8-2024-1.pdf | Past |
|
2023
|
Research and development | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/2369 | H.R. 2369 VALID Act of 2023 | This act would create a regulation specific to vitro clinical tests (IVCTs), separate from the regulatory framework for other medical devices. IVCTs would be subject to a premarket review process, notably including a Technology Certification Program. | Support | Introduced 3/29/2023 by Rep. Bucshon, Larry [R-IN-8]; referred to Commitee on Energy and Commerce, and Committee on Ways and Means; referred to Subcommittee on Health 4/7/23 | |
|
2023
|
Research and development | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/2940 | H.R. 2940 PASTEUR Act of 2023 (identical bill S. 1335) | Bill to incentivize innovative drug development targeting the most threatening infections, improve the appropriate use of antibiotics, and ensure domestic availability when needed. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/PASTEUR-Stakeholder-Support-letter-combined.pdf | Introduced 4/27/2023 by Rep. Ferguson, A. Drew, IV [R-GA-3]; Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, the Committees on Oversight and Accountability, Ways and Means, and the Budget; 04/28/2023 Referred to the Subcommittee on Health. |
|
2023
|
Oral Chemo Parity | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/2039 | S. 2039 Cancer Drug Parity Act | This bill responds to the recent improvements in oral medications for cancer by preventing insurers from charging cancer patients higher copayments for those medications than for chemotherapy medicine delivered intravenously | Support | Introduced 6/15/2023 by Sen. Smith, Tina [D-MN]; Referred to HELP Committee | |
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2023
|
Medicare Coverage | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/2085/ | S. 2085 Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act | This bill provides for Medicare coverage and payment for multi-cancer early detection screening tests that are approved by the Food and Drug Administration and that are used to screen for cancer across many cancer types. | Support | https://www.preventcancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/2023-6-22-mced-sign-on-letter.pdf | Introduced 6/21/2023 by Sen. Crapo, Mike [R-ID]; Referred to Committee on Finance |
|
2023
|
Clinical Trials | Proposed Rule | https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2022/11/28/2022-25901/solicitation-of-proposals-for-new-and-modified-safe-harbors-and-special-fraud-alerts | 87 FR 72953 Solicitation of Proposals for New and Modified Safe Harbors and Special Fraud | Proposes that HHS create a safe harbor to allow for assistance for non-medical expenses to be provided to individuals participating in clinical trials to increase diversity of participants. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/ACS-CAN_-Proposed-Safe-Harbor_27Jan23Final.pdf | Comment period closed 1/27/2023; Comment period Extended to 1/27/25. |
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2023
|
Access to Care | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/762/ | S. 762 HCBS Access Act (identical bill H.R. 1493) | The HCBS (Home- and Community-Based Services)Access Act is designed to ensure eligible older adults and people with disabilities have a real choice of care and support options between home care and institutional care. The bill would, over time, eliminate HCBS waiting lists and the need for states to repeatedly apply for HCBS waivers. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Triage-Cancer-Letter-of-Support-for-S.762.pdf | Introduced by Senator Casey (D-Pa) 3/9/2023 |
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2023
|
Access to Care | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/1826 | H.R. 1826 PSA Screening for HIM | This bill requires private health insurance plans to cover preventive prostate cancer screenings that are not already covered under the recommendations of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force for men with a family history of prostate cancer, without imposing any cost-sharing requirement. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/FINAL_HR-1826-PCIA-Endorsement-Letter_May-2023.pdf | Introduced 3/28/2023 by Rep. Bucshon, Larry [R-IN-8]; Referred to subcommittee on health 4/7/23) |
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2023
|
Access to Care | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/1000 | S. 1000 Saving Access to Laboratory Services Act (SALSA) | This bill modifies provisions relating to Medicare payment rates for clinical diagnostic laboratory services, including by requiring payment rates for certain widely available clinical diagnostic laboratory tests to be based on a statistical sampling of private sector rates. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Combined-TC-and-Group-Letter-S.1000.pdf | Introduced 3/28/2023 by Sen. Brown, Sherrod [D-OH]; referred to the Committee on Finance |
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2023
|
Access to Care | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/2377 | H.R. 2377 Saving Access to Laboratory Services Act (SALSA) | This bill modifies provisions relating to Medicare payment rates for clinical diagnostic laboratory services, including by requiring payment rates for certain widely available clinical diagnostic laboratory tests to be based on a statistical sampling of private sector rates. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/TC-Letter-of-Support-for-H.R.2377.pdf | Introduced 3/29/2023 by Rep. Hudson, Richard [R-NC-9] referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce; and Committee on Ways and Means; referred to subcommittee on Health 4/7/23 |
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2023
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Medicare | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/842 | S. 842 Medicare and Medicaid Dental, Vision, and Hearing Benefit Act of 2023 | This bill provides for Medicare coverage of dental, vision, and hearing care. Coverage includes (1) routine dental cleanings and exams, basic and major dental services, emergency dental care, and dentures; (2) routine eye exams, eyeglasses, and contact lenses; and (3) routine hearing exams, hearing aids, and exams for hearing aids. With respect to such care, the bill establishes special payment rules, limitations, and coinsurance requirements. The bill also increases the Medicaid Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (i.e., federal matching rate) for dental, vision, and hearing services. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Triage-Cancer-Letter-of-Support-S.842.pdf | Introduced 3/16/2023 by Sen. Casey, Robert P., Jr. [D-PA]; referred to Committee on Finance 3/16/23 |
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2023
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Access to Care | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/1687 | S. 1687 Beneficiary Enrollment Notification and Eligibility Simplification 2.0 Act or the BENES 2.0 Act | This bill requires Social Security account statements for individuals attaining ages 60 to 65 to include information about Medicare eligibility, late enrollment penalties, benefit coordination, and related resources.Statements with the required information must be mailed to individuals at least three months before they turn 65; the required information must also be mailed to those who are age 65 or over and are entitled to Social Security benefits three months before their initial Medicare enrollment period begins. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Triage-Cancer-Letter-of-Support-for-S.1687.pdf | Introduced 5/18/2023 by Sen. Casey, Robert P., Jr. [D-PA]; referred to Committee on Finance 5/18/23 |
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2023
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Access to Care | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/3916 | H.R. 3916 The Screening for Communities to Receive Early and Equitable Needed Services (SCREENS) for Cancer Act (identical bill S. 1840) | This bill would reauthorize the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP) through 2028, helping make screening services more accessible to more people | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Triage-Cancer-Letter-of-Support-H.R.3916.pdf | Introduced 6/7/2023 by Rep. Morelle, Joseph D. [D-NY-25]; Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce; Committee on Energy and Commerce Ordered it to be Reported (Amended) by the Yeas and Nays 3/20/24; 05/24/2024 Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 437. |
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2023
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Access to Care | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/3851 | H.R. 3851 Access to Breast Cancer Diagnosis (ABCD) Act | This bill would prohibit group health plans and health insurance issuers offering group or individual health insurance coverage from imposing cost-sharing requirements with respect to diagnostic and supplemental breast examinations. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Triage-Cancer-Letter-of-Support-H.R.3851.pdf | Introduced 6/6/2023 by Rep. Dingell, Debbie [D-MI-6]; Referred to the subcommittee on health 6/9/23 |
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2023
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Medicare Coverage | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/2407?s=1&r=1 | H.R. 2407 Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act | This bill provides for Medicare coverage and payment for multi-cancer early detection screening tests that are approved by the Food and Drug Administration and that are used to screen for cancer across many cancer types. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Triage-Cancer-Letter-of-Support-for-H.R.2407.pdf | Introduced 3/30/2023 by Rep. Arrington, Jodey C. [R-TX-19]; Referred to Subcommittee on Health (4/7/2023); 06/27/2024 Ordered to be Reported in the Nature of a Substitute (Amended) by the Yeas and Nays: 38 - 0. |
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2023
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Medicaid Expansion | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/31/text | H.R. 31 COVER Now Act - Cover Outstanding Vulnerable Expansion-eligible Residents Now Act | Under the program, local governments may provide coverage for individuals who are newly eligible for Medicaid under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (i.e., the Medicaid expansion population) for a maximum of 10 years, or until their respective states expand Medicaid. The bill provides a 100% federal matching rate for the first three years of program participation. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Triage-Cancer-Letter-in-Support-of-H.R.31-COVER-Now-Act.pdf | Introduced by Representative Doggett (D-TX) 1/9/2023; referred to subcommittee on Health in the House Energy and Commerce Committee |
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2023
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Insurance Coverage | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/765 | S. 765 Reducing Hereditary Cancer Act | Bill to modify the Medicare statutes to enable coverage of potentially life-saving genetic counseling, testing, screening and risk-reducing interventions. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/RHCA-letter_03.13.2023Final.pdf | Introduced 3/9/2023 Sen. Murkowski, Lisa [R-AK]; Referred to Committee on Finance |
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2023
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Insurance Coverage | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/1526 | H.R. 1526 Reducing Hereditary Cancer Act | Bill to modify the Medicare statutes to enable coverage of potentially life-saving genetic counseling, testing, screening and risk-reducing interventions. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/RHCA-letter_03.13.2023Final.pdf | Introduced 3/9/2023 by Rep. Wasserman Schultz, Debbie [D-FL-25]; Referred to Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health (3/17/2023) |
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2023
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Insurance Coverage | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/485 | H.R. 485 Protecting Health Care for All Patients Act | This bill will protect vulnerable Americans by banning the use of Quality-Adjusted Life Years (QALY) in all federal programs. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/2023-0307-H.R.-485-QALY-Ban-Bill-Sign-on-Letter-FINAL.pdf | Passed the House; Received in the Senate and referred to Committee on Finance (2/8/24) |
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2023
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Housing | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/1377 | S. 1377 VITAL Act | The bill would address the housing affordability and accessibility crisis for people with disabilities by increasing the overall funding for the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program and encouraging development of accessible housing for seniors and people with disabilities. | Support | https://www.casey.senate.gov/news/releases/casey-introduces-bill-to-produce-more-accessible-affordable-housing | Introduced by Senator Casey (D-Pa); referred to Committee on Finance (4/27/2023) |
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2023
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Housing | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/773 | H.R. 773 The Homelessness and Behavioral Health Care Coordination Act of 2023 | This bill would authorize a grant program within the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to help state and local governments, tribal entities, public housing agencies, and Continuums of Care better coordinate services for behavioral health, including substance use disorder, and homelessness. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Triage-Cancer-Letter-of-Support-HR-773.pdf | Introduced by Representative Dean (D-PA); Referred to the House Committee on Financial Services (2/2/2023) |
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2022
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Curb Utilization Management Policies | Federal Court Case | https://litigationtracker.law.georgetown.edu/litigation/hiv-and-hepatitis-policy-institute-et-al-v-hhs-et-al-docket-no-23-05284-d-c-cir-nov-30-2023/ | DC Circuit Court: No. 23-05284: HIV and Hepatitis Policy Institute, et al. v. HHS | The Plaintiffs ask the court to tell HHS that they were wrong when they approved the use of copay accumulator programs and that the rule permitting them be stopped. | Support the Plaintiffs | https://hivhep.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Aimed-Alliance-amicus-brief.pdf | Voluntarily Dismissed (Jan. 23, 2024) |
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2023
|
Funding | Budget FY 2024 | https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/budget_fy2024.pdf | Ask Congress to include funding for the Childhood Cancer STAR Act ($30M) the Childhood Cancer Data Initiative ($50M) | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Triage-Cancer-Letter-of-Support-for-Funding-of-Childhood-Cancer-FY-24-Senate.pdf | Budget Finalized | |
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2022
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Curb Utilization Management Policies | Proposed Rule | https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/hhs-notice-benefit-and-payment-parameters-2024-proposed-rule | 88 FR 25740 HHS Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters for 2024 Proposed Rule | Proposed rule from CMS fails to address copay accumulatoradjustment policies in this proposed rule. | Suggests additions to proposed rule | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Combined-Group-Letters-NBPP-2024.pdf | Regulations effective June 18, 2023 |
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2023
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Caregiving | Executive Order | https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2023/04/18/executive-order-on-increasing-access-to-high-quality-care-and-supporting-caregivers/ | Executive Order on Increasing Access to High-Quality Care and Supporting Caregivers | Directives expand access to affordable, high-quality care and assist family members and workers who care for older adults | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Organizational-Sign-On-Letter-to-President-Biden-EO-Family-Caregivers-051823-Final.pdf | Signed by President Biden on 4/18/2023 |
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2022
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Legislation | Inflation Reduction Act | Reduce the costs of drugs on Part D Medicare and extend tax credits and subsidies for Marketplace plans through 2025 | Support | Signed into law on 08/16/2022 | |||
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2022
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Renewal of the Prescription Drug User Fee Act | Reauthorization needed at the end of the FY | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/7667 | Included within: H.R.7667 | Equitable access to clinical trials and diverse participation requires deliberate planning to achieve. FDA has recently taken steps to encourage sponsors to develop diversity action plans through the release of draft guidance, but such plans are currently optional. Several provisions in the House-passed version of PDUFA would make such plans mandatory, and we urge Congress to include these diversity planning requirements in final PDUFA legislation. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/PDUFAConferenceCommunitySupportLetter2022 | 5 year reauthorization included in temporary budget bill passed on 9/30/2022 |
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2022
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Increase Funding for NIH in FY23 to $49 Billion | Forthcoming Budget Resolution FY23 | Increasing funding for the National Institutes of Health will help make progress to address health challenges, including COVID-19. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/FY-2023-Ad-Hoc-Group-Recommendation_5.10.22_Final.pdf | |||
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2022
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Provide robust funding to Consumer Assistance Program Funding for FY23 | Forthcoming Budget Resolution FY23 | Consumer Assistance Programs provide important resources for educating the public about their health insurance options and assist people navigating transitions in health insurance coverage due to changes in employment status, evolving family configurations, age, and other factors. Furthermore, CAPs can play an important role in ensuring that consumers understand their rights and receive protections against surprise medical bills that Congress intended. | Support | ||||
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2022
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Response to Public Comment Period Requesting Information Regarding Reporting on PharmacyBenefits and Prescription Drug Costs | FTC Request for Information | https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2022/04/federal-trade-commission-extends-public-comment-period-request-information-impact-pharmacy-benefit | PBMs play a large part in how patients access and afford their prescription medications. We call on the FTC to use all the power within its purview to help alleviate these harmful policies and practices that make access to prescription drugs out of reach for patients and impact the health of our nation. We support increased regulation of the PBMs. | Support | https://hivhep.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/FTC-Public-Comments-on-PBM-Practices-5.24.22-1.pdf | Period for Public Comments to FTC ended 5/25/2022 | |
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2022
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Restore robust funding to Consumer Assistance Program Funding for FY23 | Forthcoming Budget Resolution FY23 | Consumer Assistance Programs provide important resources for educating the public about their health insurance options and assist people navigating transitions in health insurance coverage due to changes in employment status, evolving family configurations, age, and other factors. Furthermore, CAPs can play an important role in ensuring that consumers understand their rights and receive protections against surprise medical bills that Congress intended. | Support | ||||
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2022
|
Health Equity and Accountability Act of 2022 | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/7585 | H.R. 7585 | Achieving health equity – the highest level of health for everyone – is a critical imperative for this country, not only because it is at the heart of our shared values of fairness, justice, and equal opportunity, but because it is impossible to have a sustainable healthcare system without it. The Health Equity and Accountability Act (HEAA) can provide the tools necessary to address these health inequities and ensure that health and health care disparities elimination are prioritized. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/HEAA-Letter-of-Support | Passed the out of the House 6/8/2022 and received by the Senate 6/9/2022 |
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2022
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Building a Sustainable Workforce for Healthy Communities Act | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/3479 https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/8151?s=1&r=22 | H.R. 8151/S. 3479 | Reauthorizes funding allotted to the CDC for Community Health Workers through 2027 | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Sign-on_Building-Sustainable-CHW-Workforce_PIH_9-8-22.pdf | Introduced in the Senate 1/11/2022, and in the House 6/21/2022 |
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2022
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Saving Access to Laboratory Services Act | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/8188 https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/4449 | H.R. 8188/S. 4449 | Updates Medicare's payment system for laboratory testing to provide improved access to testing and foster innovation. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Stakeholder-Letter-in-Support-of-SALSA-9-13-22.pdf | Introduced 6/22/2022 |
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2022
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Preserving Access to Home Health Act of 2022 | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/8581?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22HR+8581%22%2C%22HR%22%2C%228581%22%5D%7D&s=1&r=1 | H.R. 8581/S. 4605 | Prevent cuts in Medicare's rates to Home Health Care rates from going into effect | Support | Introduced 7/28/2022 and referred to committee | |
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2022
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Palliative Care and Hospice Education and Training Act (PCHETA) | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/4260 | S 4260 | Improves training programs for Palliative Care and Hospice Education to increase the field of professionals with this training as the demand for such services is expected to grow. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Triage-Cancer-Letter-of-Support-for-PCHETA.pdf | Introduced 5/19/2022, referred to committee |
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2022
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Stop the Wait Act of 2022 | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/6583/text | H.R.6583/S.3575 | Would eliminate the five month waiting period for SSDI and the 2 year waiting period for Medicare for those who are deemed disabled by the Social Security Administration | Support | Introduced in both the House and Senate Feb 2022 | |
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2022
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Comprehensive Cancer Survivorship Act | Legislation | https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/uploadedfiles/the_comprehensive_cancer_survivorship_act_ccsa_-_bill_text.pdf | The CCSA will set new standards of care to improve the experience for survivors, their families, and caregivers, throughout their survivorship journey, from diagnosis to end of life. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/CCSA-Letter-of-Support.pdf | Introduced December 14, 2022 | |
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2021
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Changes to CMMI Part D Payment Modernization Models on Jan 18, 2019 | Regulation | https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/part-d-payment-modernization-model-calendar-year-cy-2022-fact-sheet | The Trump Administration's changes to CMMI Part D Payment Models would result in Part D plans in this model no longer having to cover “all or substantially all” drugs within five of the six protected classes (anticonvulsants, immunosuppressants, antidepressants, antipsychotics, and antineoplastics). | Oppose | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Six-Protected-Classes-Patient-and-Provider-Letter-Final.pdf | The Biden Administration released an updated Request for Applications (RFA) for the Part D Payment Modernization (PDM) Model for CY 2022 eliminating changes proposed during the previous administration. | |
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2021
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Designating May as "National Cancer Research Month" | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-resolution/253/text | S.Res.253 - A resolution supporting the designation of May 2021 as "National Cancer Research Month" | Recognizing May as National Cancer Research Month celebrates and encourages our nation's continued investment in cancer research, which is vital to those diagnosed and their loved ones. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/NCRM-Resolution-Support-Letter | Agreed to in Senate on 06/07/2021 |
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2021
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Enforcing the CDC Moratorium on Evictions During COVID-19 | Regulation | https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/covid-eviction-declaration.html | CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky determined that the evictioning tenants could be detrimental to public health control measures to slow the spread of COVID-19. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Moratorium-letter-to-CFPBFTC-03.03.21-w-sign_ons.pdf | The CDC called for enforcement and extended moratorium until June 30, 2021. | |
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2021
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Increasing Access and Affordability of Health Care in American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/1319/text | H.R.1319 - American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 | Provisions in the American Rescue plan work to improve health coverage affordability in the private market, build on the foundation of provisions in the existing health law and ensure access to vaccines, and focus on the needs of communities of color. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/COVID-19ReliefSupportLtr_021821_FINAL_830PM.pdf | Enacted March 11, 2021 |
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2021
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Requesting Prioritization of Cancer Patients for COVID-19 Vaccinations | Regulation | https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/recommendations/underlying-conditions.html | Patients with active cancer and survivors of cancer must be provided priority access to a lifesaving COVID-19 vaccine. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/SignOnLetter-re-COVID-19-Vaccine-Prioritization-for-Cancer-Patients_FINAL.pdf | The CDC prioritized cancer patients in groups 4 and 6 for COVID-19 vaccination. | |
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2021
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Access to Screening and Treatment for Prostate Cancer Among Underserved and Minority Groups | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-concurrent-resolution/5/text | S.Con.Res.5 - A concurrent resolution setting forth the congressional budget... | Providing funding to address inequity and access to screening and treatment for prostate cancer in FY 2022 would further lower mortality rates and address concerning increases in late-stage prostate cancer disease. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/FoPCCC-Transition-Letter-FINAL.pdf | Passed in House on 02/05/2021 |
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2021
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Restore robust funding to Consumer Assistance Program Funding for FY22 | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-concurrent-resolution/5/text | S.Con.Res.5 - A concurrent resolution setting forth the congressional budget... | Consumer Assistance Programs provide important resources for educating the public about their health insurance options and assist people navigating transitions in health insurance coverage due to changes in employment status, evolving family configurations, age, and other factors. Furthermore, CAPs can play an important role in ensuring that consumers understand their rights and receive protections against surprise medical bills that Congress intended. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/042621-CAP-Grant-Support-Letter-w-Logos-FINAL.pdf | Passed in House on 2/5/2021 |
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2021
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Allocating $10 Billion in Funding for NIH in FY22 | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-concurrent-resolution/5/text | S.Con.Res.5 - A concurrent resolution setting forth the congressional budget... | Providing the National Institutes of Health (NIH) with at least $10 billion would help mitigate delays in cancer research caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Ad-Hoc-Group-Letter-Urging-Swift-Passage-of-FY22-Appropriations_Final.pdf | Passed 2/5/2021 with NIH Budget Increase of $2B |
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2021
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Comments in Response to Request for Information Regarding Reporting on PharmacyBenefits and Prescription Drug Costs | Comments | https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2021/06/23/2021-13138/request-for-information-regarding-reporting-on-pharmacy-benefits-and-prescription-drug-costs | Our recommendations to Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Xavier Becerra, include: requiring health plans to report on the treatment and accounting of copay assistance, collecting information on rebates and pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), and carefully considering the impact of costs associated with prescription drugs on patients, their families, and society as a whole. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/Letter-to-HHS-On-Standard-Plan-Options | Secretary Becerra responded to our letter on June 28th, 2021. | |
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2021
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Expanding Medicare | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-concurrent-resolution/14 | S.Con.Res.14 | The Senate's proposed budget would lower patient spending and increase patient's access to care by expanding Medicare. This includes adding dental, vision, and hearing coverage, as well as expanding home and community-based services. This bill would also alleviate the financial crisis caused by COVID-19 by making increased child tax credit and cost-share subsidies from the American Rescue Plan permanent. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/Senate-Budget-Resolution-Support | Agreed in House on 08/24/2021 |
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2021
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Improving Patient Drug Affordability through Standardized Benefit Plans | Regulation | https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2021/07/01/2021-13993/patient-protection-and-affordable-care-act-updating-payment-parameters-section-1332-waiver | CMS-9906-P | We support the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and the Department of the Treasury's proposed rule to offer standardized options for qualified health plans beginning in 2023, assisting patients better afford the prescription drugs and health services. We also believe that copay assistance should count towards their deductible and out-of-pocket maximum. We urge HHS to amend the Notice of Payment Parameters Rule for 2022 to prohibit the practice of not allowing such copay assistance to count by insurers. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/Letter-Standardized-Benefit-Plans | Final Rule Published 9/27/2021; Effective 11/26/2021 |
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2021
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Restore robust funding to Consumer Assistance Program Funding for FY22 | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-concurrent-resolution/5/text | S.Con.Res.5 - A concurrent resolution setting forth the congressional budget... | Consumer Assistance Programs provide important resources for educating the public about their health insurance options and assist people navigating transitions in health insurance coverage due to changes in employment status, evolving family configurations, age, and other factors. Furthermore, CAPs can play an important role in ensuring that consumers understand their rights and receive protections against surprise medical bills that Congress intended. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/042621-CAP-Grant-Support-Letter-w-Logos-FINAL.pdf | Passed in House on 2/5/2021 |
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2021
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Access to Breast Cancer Diagnosis (ABCD) Act | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/1067. | S.1067/H.R.5769 | This bill prohibits private health insurance plans from imposing higher cost-sharing requirements on breast cancer diagnostic examinations than initial breast cancer screening examinations. Diagnostic examinations are generally required after an initial screening detects an abnormality and typically require additional mammogram images (e.g., x-rays). | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Letters-of-Support-for-ABCD-Combined.pdf | Introduced in Senate 4/12/2021; Introduced in House 10/28/2021 |
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2021
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Access to Screening and Treatment for Prostate Cancer Among Underserved and Minority Groups | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-concurrent-resolution/5/text | S.Con.Res.5 - A concurrent resolution setting forth the congressional budget... | Providing funding to address inequity and access to screening and treatment for prostate cancer in FY 2022 would further lower mortality rates and address concerning increases in late-stage prostate cancer disease. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/FoPCCC-Transition-Letter-FINAL.pdf | |
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2021
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Better Care Better Jobs Act | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/2210?r=97&s=6 | H.R.4131/S.2210 - Better Care Better Jobs Act | Investing $400 billion in Medicaid home- and community-based services (HCBS) would make states eligible for HCBS planning grants, as well as permanent enhanced federal Medicaid match funding to expand and strengthen HCBS access and workforce. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/Better-Care-Better-Jobs-Act | Introduced in both House and Senate 06/24/2021 |
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2021
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Cancer Care Planning and Communications Act | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/4414?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22H.R.+4414%22%5D%7D&s=1&r=1 | H.R.4414 -The Cancer Care Planning and Communications Act | This legislation would facilitate cancer patients’ access to comprehensive cancer care plans by allowing doctors to bill Medicare for their time crafting these plans, improving patients’ health literacy and survivorship outcomes. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/The-Cancer-Care-Planning-and-Communications-Act-Letter | Introduced to House on 07/13/2021 |
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2021
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Cigna's Letters to Patients and Providers on Cosentyx | Letter | https://www.cigna.com/employers-brokers/insights/informed-on-reform/wellness-programs-and-incentives | Cigna's recent Cosentyx initiative coerces a non-medical switch in medication that may harm those suffering from autoimmune diseases and other chronic conditions. | Oppose | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Cigna-Sign-on-Letter-FINAL4.162.pdf | Cigna continues to incentivize patients to switch. | |
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2021
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CONNECT for Health Act of 2021 | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/1512 | S.1512/H.R. 2903 - CONNECT for Health Act of 2021 | This legislation facilitates access to telehealth services for Medicare beneficiaries by removing barriers to coverage, including geographic requirements which currently restrict access for those in rural areas. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/CONNECT-Act-of-2021 | Introduced in House 4/28/2021; Introduced in Senate 04/29/2021 |
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2021
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Cover Outstanding Vulnerable Expansion-Eligible Residents Now Act | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/3961?s=1&r=3 | H.R.3961 - COVER Now Act | This act would allow the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to work directly with individual counties and cities to expand Medicaid coverage in their region, even if their State has declined to accept federal resources for Medicaid expansion. | Support | Introduced in House 06/17/2021 | |
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2021
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Credit for Caring Act | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/1670?s=1&r=9 | S.1670/H.R. 3321 - Credit for Caring Act of 2021 | This bill reduces costs for caregivers by creating a tax credit of up to $5,000 for 30% of the cost of long-term care expenses exceeding $2,000 in a taxable year. Eligible caregivers must earn more than $7,500 a year and pay for long-term care for their spouse or dependent relative. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/Credit-For-Caring-Letter | Introduced in Senate 05/18/2021 |
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2021
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DIVERSE Trials Act | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/2706 | S.2706/H.R.5030 - DIVERSE Trials Act | To address health inequities by increasing racially diverse participation in clinical trials, this act allows sponsors of trials to allieviate costs for patients by reimbursing patients for non-medical costs associated with their trial participation, such as travel, parking, food, or lodging. This legislation also allows trial sponsors to provide free access to technologies associated with the trial. Plus, it creates a program for awarding grants to organizations providing community support for clinical trial enrollment. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/DIVERSE-Trials-Act-Letters | Introduced in Senate on 08/10/2021; Introduced in House on 08/13/2021 |
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2021
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Excellus BlueCross BlueShield's Decision on Prior Authorization for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Therapy | Letter | https://provider.excellusbcbs.com/authorizations/medical | This change effectively excludes cemiplimab from coverage, leaving patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) without access to it. We recommend that Excellus amend its prior authorization policy to remove the step therapy requirements for patients with advanced NSCLC whose tumors have high PD-L1 expression. | Oppose | https://triagecancer.org/Excellus-BCBS-Letter | ||
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2021
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Family and Medical Insurance Leave Act (FAMILY Act) | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/804?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22FAMILY+delauro%22%5D%7D&r=4&s=5 | This bill would alleviate the financial burden associated with emergency medical care by entitling employees to family and medical leave insurance (FMLI), providing two thirds of their regular pay for 60 days. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/facts-paid-family-and-medical-leave | Introduced in House 02/04/2021 | |
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2021
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Improving Access to Mental Health Act of 2021 | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/2035/actions?r=6&s=1 | H.R.2035 - Improving Access to Mental Health Act of 2021 | This legislation will facilitate patient access to mental health services by increasing Medicare reimbursement rates for clinical social workers, access to mental health services for residents of skilled nursing facilities, and supports for beneficiaries managing emotional and social effects of medical conditions. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/Improving-Access-to-Mental-Health-Act-of-2021-Letters | Introduced in House 03/18/2021 |
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2021
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Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act of 2021 | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/3173?s=1&r=5 | H.R.3173/S.3018 - Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act of 2021 | This act streamlines the process for prior authorizations for Medicare Advantage (MA) plans by establishing an electronic prior authorization (ePA) program. | Support | https://triagecancer.org//The-Improving-Seniors-Timely-Access-to-Care-Act-of-2021-Letter | Passed out of House Ways and Means Committee on 7/27/2022, in the Energy and Commerce Committee Health Subcommittee; Introduced in Senate 10/20/2021 |
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2021
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Lowering Medicare Premiums and Prescription DrugCosts Act | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/1844/text?r=4&s=1 | S.1844/H.R.5099 - Lowering Medicare Premiums and Prescription DrugCosts Act | This act helps reduce barriers to care by expanding and streamlining financialassistance for Medicare Part A, Part B and Part D beneficiaries. | Support | https://www.aging.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/Lowering%20Medicare%20Premiums%20and%20Prescription%20Drug%20Costs%20Act%20-%20One%20Pager.pdf?eType=EmailBlastContent&eId=274324d7-62ef-43ba-a354-20b529cb91dc | Introduced in Senate 05/26/2021; Introduced in House on 8/24/2021 |
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2021
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Lymphedema Treatment Act | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/1315/text?r=6&s=1 | S.1315/H.R. 3630 - Lymphedema Treatment Act | This act provides Medicare coverage for certain lymphedema compression treatment items, reducing associated costs to facilitate patients' access to necessary supplies. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/Lymphedema-Treatment-Act | Included in the Omnibus Bill in Decemer 2022, Effective 1/1/2024 |
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2021
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Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act of 2021 | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/1946/all-info?r=1&s=1HR | H.R.1946 - Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act of 2021 | This act would provide Medicare coverage for multi-cancer early detection screening tests, improving patient access and reducing costs. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/MCED-Support-March-2021-and-May-2022.pdf | Introduced in House on 03/16/2021 |
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2021
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Metastatic Breast Cancer Access to Care Act | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/1312/actions | H.R.3183/S.1312 - Metastatic Breast Cancer Access to Care Act | This legislation will facilitate the timely delivery of patients' financial help and medical care by eliminating the five-month waiting period for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and 24-month waiting period to access Medicare coverage for individuals with metastatic breast cancer. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Metastatic-Breast-Cancer-Letters.pdf | Introduced in Senate 04/22/2021 |
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2021
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Patient-Centered Drug Pricing Policies for Autoimmune Patients | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/3?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22H.R.+3+Elijah+E.+Cummings+Lower+Drug+Costs+Now+Act%22%5D%7D&r=1&s=1 | H.R. 3 - Elijah E. Cummings Lower Drug Costs Now Act | H.R. 3 would use other countries' reference price methodology to set drug prices to a maximum fair price (MFP). These countries use a Quality Adjusted Life Years (QALY) metric, which would discriminate against seniors and disabilities, resulting in the rationing of their care. Instead, we recommend protecting co-pay assistance, instituting federal cost-sharing caps, and mandating transparency for Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBM) operations to lower drug prices for patients. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/Patient-Centered-Drug-Pricing-Letters | Introduced in House 04/22/2021 |
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2021
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Protecting Seniors Through Immunization Act of 2021 | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/912/text | S. 912/H.R. 1978 - Protecting Seniors Through Immunization Act | This act will help strengthen vaccine uptake by improving education and equitable access to recommended vaccines for Medicare beneficiaries. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/AVAC-Protecting-Seniors-Support | Introduced in the House 3/17/2021; Introduced in Senate 03/23/2021 |
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2021
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Reducing Hereditary Cancer Act of 2021 & Reducing Hereditary Cancer Act of 2022 | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/4110/all-info | H.R.4110 - Reducing Hereditary Cancer Act of 2021; S.3656 Reducing Hereditary Cancer Act of 2022 | This act would facilitate patient access to medically-appropriate genetic testing for cancer risk and other risk reducing interventions by providing Medicare coverage for these services. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Support-Letters-for-Reducing-Hereditary-Cancer-Act-Combined.pdf | Introduced in House 06/23/2021; Introduced in Senate 2/16/2022 |
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2021
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Safe Step Act | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/464?overview=closed | S.464/H.R.2163 - Safe Step Act | This legislation would require employer-sponsored health insurance plans to create clear step-therapy exception protocols, laying out steps for getting medications approved without step therapy. If the first drug patients must take before "stepping-up" to their preferred drug a) would not be effective, b) is expected to be ineffective and delaying treatment would cause irreversible consequences, c) would cause an allergic reaction, b) would prevent the patient from completing daily activities, or e) would disrupt an already-stable drug regimen, the request must be approved. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/Safe-Step-Act-Letters | Introduced in Senate on 02/25/2021; Introduced in House, 03/23/2021 |
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2021
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Seniors Prescription Drug Relief Act | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/2327?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22S.+2327+%28IS%29+-+Seniors+Prescription+Drug+Relief+Act%22%5D%7D&s=1&r=1 | S. 2327- Seniors Prescription Drug Relief Act | The Seniors Prescription Drug Relief Act alleviates costs for Medicare Part D beneficiaries by capping out-of-pocket costs at $3,100, allowing patients to pay high prescription drug costs through monthly payment plans, and reducing prescription drug co-insurance from 25 to 20 percent during the “doughnut hole” period. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/Seniors-Prescription-Drug-Relief-Act-Letter-of-Support | Introduced in Senate on 07/13/2021; many of the provisions of this law were incorporated into the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 and signed into law on 08/16/2022 |
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2021
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Supplementary Security Income (SSI) Restoration Act of 2021 | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/2065 | H.R.3824/S.2065 - The Supplementary Security Income (SSI) Restoration Act of 2021 | The SSI Restoration Act updates regulations for the Supplemental Security Income program to increase benefits available to low-income Americans with disabilities and older Americans. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/SSI-Restoration-Letter-of-Support | Introduced in Senate 06/11/2021 |
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2021
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VALID Act of 2021 | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/2209?overview=closed | H.R. 4128/S. 2209 VALID Act of 2021 | This act would create a regulation specific to vitro clinical tests (IVCTs), separate from the regulatory framework for other medical devices. IVCTs would be subject to a premarket review process, notably including a Technology Certification Program. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/VALID-Act-Letters-of-Support-Combined.pdf | Introduced in Senate 6/24/2021 |
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2021
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Paid Family Medical Leave | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/117/bills/sconres14/BILLS-117sconres14es.pdf | S. CON. RES. 14 | Paid Family and Medical Leave provisions included in the FY 2022 Budget Reconciliation Proposal to institute a comprehensive, universal, paid family and medical leave plan for workers, including caregivers of older adults and people with disabilities. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/paidleave-10-29 | Paid Family Medical Leave was not included in the Budget for FY22 |
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2021
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Accelerating Kids’ Access to Care Act (AKACA) | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/3089/actions | HR 3089/S 1544 | Establishes a limited streamlined federal Medicaid screening and enrollment pathway for providers caring for children so that children on Medicaid can receive prompt care in another state when the care is not available in their home state. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/AKACA-Updated-Endorsement-Letter-Fall-2022.pdf | Introduced 5/2021, referred to committee |
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2021
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Prostate Specific Antigen Screeing for High RIsk Insured Mens Act (PSA for HIM Act) | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/1176/all-actions?s=1&r=95 | HR 1176 | The PSA for HIM Act would waive deductibles, copayments, and coinsurances for prostate cancer screenings for those with a family history of prostate cancer or who are African-American. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/HR-1176-Endorsement-Letter.pdf | Introduced 2/19/2021 |
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2020
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Additional Direction on Civil Rights Law and Emergency State Guidance During COVID-19 from HHS’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) | Letter | https://www.hhs.gov/about/news/2020/03/28/ocr-issues-bulletin-on-civil-rights-laws-and-hipaa-flexibilities-that-apply-during-the-covid-19-emergency.html | Additional direction from Department of Health and Human Service’s (HHS’s) Office for Civil Rights (OCR) would make clear that state emergency triage guidance that would limit or restrict access to lifesaving care for certain patients with underlying conditions due to the COVID-19 pandemic violates federal antidiscrimination laws. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Emergency-Triage-Letter-to-OCR-5.20.20-Final.pdf | No additional guidance on civil rights and states' emergency response issued by the OCR. | |
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2020
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Administrative Changes to HHS to Increase Patient Access During COVID-19 | Regulation | https://www.cms.gov/files/document/summary-covid-19-emergency-declaration-waivers.pdf | Joined the ACS CAN to urge HHS Secretary Alex Azar to ensure plan networks do not hinder access to Care, waive facility-specific pre-certification and prior authorization, provide considerations for home infusion services, allow Medicaid patients to recieve a 90-day supply of necessary medications, and clarify improvements to telehealth services. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Letter-to-HHS-Sec-Azar-on-Covid-Fixes-for-Cancer-Patients-FINAL.pdf | Updated CMS Blanket Waivers issued April 8, 2021 provide additional guidance and protections for patients and providers. | |
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2020
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Advancing Policies Supporting the Role of Oral Health in Fighting COVID-19 | Letter | https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/conditions/index.html | Proposed Legislation: Speaker Pelosi and Leaders McConnell, McCarthy, and Schumer to advancing policies promote oral health in addressing the COVID-19 pandemic would help prevent worstening long-standing disparities in oral health. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/OPENLetterSignedF-Medicaid-HEROS-Act.pdf | Action is still needed to address America's Oral Health Crisis. | |
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2020
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Allowing Patients with Medicare Part D to use Drug Discount Cards through the Novel Coronavirus (COVID19) Pandemic | Regulation | https://www.medicare.gov/drug-coverage-part-d/what-medicare-part-d-drug-plans-cover/drug-plan-coverage-rules | Rescinding the ban on the use of copay cards in the Medicare Part D program through the Novel Coronavirus (COVID19) pandemic would facilitate access to and adherence with needed medicines. It would also improve beneficiaries’ overall ability to manage critical and pressing health-related and household expenses. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Patient-Group-Letter-to-OIG-on-Medicare-Part-D-Copay-Coupon-Assitance-FINAL-8.24.20.pdf | The ban was not rescinded through the Novel Coronavirus (COVID19) pandemic. | |
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2020
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Biden-Harris Transition Team Prioritizing Health and Healthcare | Letter | https://www.whitehouse.gov/priorities/ | The Biden-Harris Transition Team taking action to end the COVID-19 pandemic, address racial injustices in healthcare, pursue affordable healthcare for all Americans, and lower health care costs will be key to turning the tide of the pandemic, restoring the economy, and saving lives. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Letter-from-320-organizations-to-urge-Biden-Harris-transition-team-to-prioritize-health-and-healthcare.pdf | The Biden-Harris administration's efforts to end the COVID-19 pandemic and address inequities in and access to healthcare are ongoing. However, they describe ending COVID-19, achieveing racial equity, and protecting American's access to healthcare as policy priorities. | |
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2020
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Transparency in Denials of Coverage | Regulation | https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2020/11/12/2020-24591/transparency-in-coverage | 85 FR 72158 | A regulation issued by the Trump Administration requires all non-grandfathered plans, including employer-sponsored plans, to report billed charges and negotiated allowed amounts for covered medical care, starting in 2023. But, Triage Cancer recommends that Health and Human Services (HHS) audit insurers' claim denials, and investigate their efforts to add providers to their networks. | Support | Effective Date:01/11/2021 | |
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2019
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Cancer Drug Parity Act | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/senate-bill/741/all-info | H.R. 1730/S. 741 - Cancer Drug Parity Act of 2019 | Proposed Legislation: The Cancer Drug Parity Act would reduce healthcare costs for cancer patients by requiring insurance companies to cover orally administered cancer drugs in the same way as intravenous (IV) chemotherapy. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Triage-Cancer-Letter-of-Support.pdf | The Cancer Drug Parity Act (H.R. 1730/S. 741) bill died after being referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. |
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2019
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Cancer Drug Parity Act and Other Measures to Increase Access to Care and PPE during the Novel Coronavirus Pandemic | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/133 | H.R.133 - Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 | Proposed Legislation: The Cancer Drug Parity Act, as well as other measures to increase access to care during the Novel Coronavirus Pandemic including increased funding for state Medicaid and the production of Personal Protective Equiptment (PPE), would ensure continuity of care for people with cancerand survivors. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/ACS-CAN-Cancer-Community-Letter-July-2020.pdf | The Cancer Drug Parity Act (H.R. 1730/S. 741) bill died after being referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. However, other recommendations were honored in subsequent pandemic relief bills. |
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2019
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Clinical Treatment Act | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/913 | H.R.913/S.4742 - The Clinical Treatment Act | Proposed Legislation: This bill would ensure states cover routine care costs of participation in an approved clinical trial for Medicaid enrollees with life-threatening conditions. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/HR-913-Community-Support-Letter.pdf | The Clinical Treatment Act (H.R.913/S.4742) bill died after being introduced to the House. |
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2019
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Coverage for Germline and Somatic Tumor NGS-based testing for Early-Stage Cancer Patients with Medicare | Regulation | https://www.cms.gov/medicare-coverage-database/details/nca-decision-memo.aspx?NCAId=296 | 63 organizations expressed serious concerns that the overly broad interpretation of national coverage determination for next generation sequencing will restrict patient access to medically necessary and relevant clinical tests and adversely impact cancer care and outcomes. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Group_Stakeholder_Letter_NGSNCD-FINAL-1-31-2019.pdf | A Jan. 27, 2020 decision memo from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced that Medicare will cover next-generation sequencing (NGS) tests for qualified patients with any stage of female breast or ovarian cancer to determine if they have hereditary cancer-associated mutations. | |
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2019
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Emergency Funding For Critical Nonprofits During COVID-19 | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/133 | H.R.133 - Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 | Legislation: Providing emergency funding would assure the stalled research supported by non-profit organizations, voluntary health associations, science societies, and foundations, can resume once researchers return to their labs. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Sign-on-letter-research-protections-for-non-profits-FINAL-5620.pdf | Additional funding provided in the "Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021’’ enacted December 21, 2020. |
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2019
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Equitable Access to Testing and Treatment for COVID-19 | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/133 | H.R.133 - Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 | Legislation: Providing equitable access to testing and treatment for COVID-19; equip states and localities with sufficient financial support to combat the crisis; provide protection and support to the health care workforce and others on the frontlines of the pandemic; assure access and capacity in the health system; and protect against high and unexpected health care costs would help protect American's overall well-being. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/FUSA-COVID-response-recs-sign-on-4.22.20-final.pdf | Much of these requests were honored in additional action taken to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. |
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2019
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Funding for the Kidney CancerResearch Program for Fiscal Year 2021 | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/133 | H.R.133 - Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 | This bill requires the Department of Defense to provide $50 million in research funding to develop innovative treatment options for kidney and renal pelvic cancer. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/12.08.2020-CR-Jt.-Approp-Ltr-KCRP-Request-for-FY-21.pdf | In FY21 KCRP received an additional appropriation of $50M to conduct kidney cancer research. |
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2019
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Funding for the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in FY 2020 | Letter | https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/H1865PLT_44.PDF | Legislation: One Voice Against Cancer (OVAC), a coalition of public interest groups representing millions of cancer researchers, physicians and nurses, patients, survivors and their families, urges congress to raise the FY 2020 budget caps for cancer research, treatment, prevention and detection. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/OVAC-Budget-Cap-Letter-February-2019.pdf | NIH received $41.68 billion in funding in FY 2020, an increase of $2.6 billion from FY 2019. | |
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2019
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Funding Increases for Cancer Research in FY 2021 | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/133 | H.R.133 - Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 | Funding for (NIH) and (NCI) in FY2021 would be used to ensure that cancer research and clinical trials impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic can be restarted when safe to do so and for research related to COVID-19. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/FY2021_OVAC-Letter-Requesting-Funding-increases-for-cancer-research-and-prevention-11.24.2020.pdf | FY 2021 included a $1.25 billion budget increase for NIH, and a nearly $120 million increase for the NCI. |
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2019
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Funding the DoD's Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program and its PRCRP in FY 2021 | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/133 | H.R.133 - Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 | Funding for the Department of Defense’s (DoD) Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program and its Peer-Reviewed Cancer Research Program (PRCRP) in Fiscal Year 2021 (FY 2021) advances high-impact research for cancer prevention, detection, treatment, and survivorship to support service members, their families, and the American public at-large. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/ACS-CAN-FY-2021-CDMRP-letter-FINAL.pdf | Congress appropriated $115,000,000 for PRCRP in FY 2021. |
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2019
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Henrietta Lacks Enhancing Cancer Research Act of 2019 | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/116/plaws/publ291/PLAW-116publ291.pdf | H.R.1966/S. 946 - The Henrietta Lacks Enhancing Cancer Research Act of 2019 | Legislation: By analyzing the federal policies that directly impact participation rates in cancer clinical trials and then recommending potential policy changes across federal agencies, this act works to reduce barriers that keep patients from enrolling in clinical trials. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/S.-946-Endorsement-Letter-FINAL.pdf | This act became a public law on January 5, 2021. |
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2019
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Medical Expense Savings Act | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/senate-bill/110 | H.R.2073/S.110- Medical Expense Savings Act | Proposed Legislation: This act would make permanent the 7.5 percent threshold for the medical expense deduction. Tax relief in this area can provide needed resources, especially important to middle income seniors with high medical costs. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/FINAL_Med_Ex_Coalition_12.14.2020.pdf | The Medical Expense Savings Act (H.R.2073/S.110) died after being referred to the Committee on Finance. |
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2019
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Medicare National Coverage Determinations (NCD) | Regulation | https://www.cms.gov/medicare-coverage-database/details/nca-details.aspx?NCAId=296&bc=AIAAAAAACAAAAAAA& | Legislation: The bill will change the Medicare statutes to allow for germline testing of affected and unaffected carriers who meet personal and/or family history criteria (as defined by NCCN). It would also cover evidence-based increased screening and risk-reducing surgeries. | Support | https://triagecancer.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/NGS-NCD-Comments_90.2_May2019-FINAL.pdf | The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) covers Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) as a diagnostic laboratory test when performed in a CLIA-certified laboratory and ordered by a treating physician for qualified patients. | |
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2018
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Cancer Care Planning and Communications Act of 2018 | Legislation | https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/5160/text?format=txt | H.R.5160 - Cancer Care Planning and Communications Act of 2018 | Proposed Legislation: The CCPC Act would establish a new Medicare service for cancer care planning. | Support | https://canceradvocacy.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/NCCS-CCPC-Fact-Sheet.pdf | This bill died in congress after being introduced on March 5, 2018. |