Policy Archive
Support Broader Access to Genetic Counseling
January 2023 - With the start of a new congress, all legislation that didn't pass last year needs to be reintroduced. Stay tuned for updates on this legislation in the coming months...
Genetic counselors provide crucial information and expertise to anyone impacted by hereditary cancer. But, did you know that these knowledgeable providers are not approved Medicare practitioners? The Access to Genetic Counselor Services Act (H.R. 2144/S. 1450) aims to remedy this issue. Join FORCE and the National Society of Genetic Counselors to support coverage of genetic counseling for Medicare beneficiaries and expanded access to genetic counseling services.
Genetic testing is an increasingly important and complex service that improves health care by enabling informed medical decisions. Genetic counselors are professionals with advanced training in medical genetics and counseling to interpret genetic test results, and to guide and support patients, their families, and their healthcare team(s). Unfortunately, current Medicare policy restricts access to these highly trained providers who can optimize the benefits of genetic testing.
Many private health plans and state Medicaid programs look to Medicare for guidance on what health services should be covered. As such, this legislation is also likely to improve access and coverage of genetic counseling beyond Medicare.
Contact your elected officials and let them know why access to genetic counseling is important!
News Briefs
8/14/2023 - Joined stakeholders in a letter to the American College of Physicians expressing disappointment with the preventive colorectal cancer screening guidance it published, which conflicts with recommendations provided by the USPSTF, NCCRT, ACS, NCCN and other reputable organizations.
7/21/2023 - Wrote House and Senate leadership, expressing support for increased funding for the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) in its staffing and administrative support of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) as part of the FY24 appropriations bill.
6/7/2023 - Joined physicians and patient advocacy groups to support California AB 632, which will allow patients to receive prostate cancer screening without a deductible, copayment, or coinsurance for prostate cancer screening, including men over the age of 40 who are at high risk for prostate cancer.
Related Resources
- Visit the How to Get Testing section of our website for criteria for genetic testing and information on finding a cancer genetics expert.
- FORCE's toll-free helpline: 866-288-RISK, ext. 704, can connect you with a volunteer board-certified genetic counselor who can answer general questions about genetic testing and hereditary cancer and help you find a genetic counselor near you.
- FORCE Peer Navigator Program will match you with a volunteer who has undergone genetic counseling and can help you navigate resources to find a genetic counselor near you.