Increasing Access to Lung Cancer Screening Act
Summary
The "Increasing Access to Lung Cancer Screening Act" aims to amend Title XIX of the Social Security Act, expanding Medicaid coverage for annual lung cancer screenings and tobacco cessation programs. It mandates coverage without cost-sharing for eligible individuals recommended for screening by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. The bill also broadens access to counseling and pharmacotherapy for tobacco use cessation to all Medicaid recipients, not just pregnant women.
Expected Effects
This act will likely increase early detection of lung cancer among Medicaid recipients and reduce smoking rates through expanded access to cessation programs. It also includes provisions to ensure these screenings are covered under Medicare and private health insurance without prior authorization. The Act also mandates education and outreach campaigns and requires a report on lung cancer demographics and screening effectiveness.
Potential Benefits
- Increased early detection of lung cancer through wider screening access.
- Reduced financial burden on Medicaid recipients for lung cancer screening.
- Expanded access to tobacco cessation programs for all Medicaid individuals.
- Improved public health through preventative care and reduced smoking rates.
- Enhanced awareness of lung cancer screening importance through education campaigns.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased costs to state Medicaid programs due to expanded coverage.
- Potential administrative burden for states to implement the new requirements.
- Possible need for state legislation to comply with the Act, causing delays.
- Potential strain on healthcare resources due to increased demand for screening and cessation services.
- The Act's effectiveness depends on the success of the education and outreach campaigns.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's mandate to "promote the general Welfare" (Preamble). Congress has the power to tax and spend for the general welfare, which includes healthcare initiatives like this one. The expansion of Medicaid falls under Congress's authority to regulate interstate commerce (Article I, Section 8) as it involves the provision of healthcare services and pharmaceuticals.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).