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Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act

10/29/2025, 3:03 AM

Summary of Bill HR 842

Bill 119 HR 842, also known as the "Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act," aims to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to include coverage for multi-cancer early detection screening tests under Medicare.

The bill proposes that Medicare, the federal health insurance program for individuals aged 65 and older, should cover the costs of multi-cancer early detection screening tests. These tests are designed to detect a wide range of cancers at an early stage, when they are more treatable and have a higher chance of successful outcomes.

By expanding Medicare coverage to include these screening tests, the bill seeks to improve access to early detection and potentially life-saving treatments for individuals at risk of developing various types of cancer. This could lead to earlier diagnoses, better treatment options, and ultimately, improved health outcomes for Medicare beneficiaries. The bill does not specify which specific multi-cancer early detection screening tests would be covered under Medicare, but it does outline the general goal of expanding coverage to include these important preventive measures. Overall, Bill 119 HR 842 represents a bipartisan effort to enhance Medicare coverage and improve cancer detection and treatment options for older Americans. It underscores the importance of early detection in the fight against cancer and aims to make these vital screening tests more accessible to Medicare beneficiaries.

Congressional Summary of HR 842

Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act

This bill allows, beginning in 2028, 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, if the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services determines such coverage is appropriate. Coverage is limited to those under a certain age (age 68 in 2028, increased by one year every year thereafter) and to one test every 11 months.

Current Status of Bill HR 842

Bill HR 842 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since January 31, 2025. Bill HR 842 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the House on January 31, 2025.  Bill HR 842's most recent activity was Reported (Amended) by the Committee on Ways and Means. H. Rept. 119-333, Part I. as of October 3, 2025

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 842

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
0
Republican Sponsors
1
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
2251
Democrat Cosponsors
1213
Republican Cosponsors
1038
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 842

Primary Policy Focus

Health

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 842

To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide for Medicare coverage of multi-cancer early detection screening tests.
To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide for Medicare coverage of multi-cancer early detection screening tests.

Comments

Pablo Nichols profile image

Pablo Nichols

25,912

9 months ago

I can't believe this is finally happening. It's about time that this was passed. It's so important to have access to early detection screening tests for multi-cancer. I just wish it had been done sooner. How soon will this go into effect?