In the $1.2 trillion government funding package passed Feb. 3, Congress approved HHS appropriations report language recognizing the full colorectal cancer screening continuum, including surveillance colonoscopy, according to a blog post from the American College of Gastroenterology.
Here are six things to know:
1. The ACG highlights the rise in early-onset colorectal cancer and states CMS should refer to the U.S. Multi-Society Task Force recommendation for asymptomatic patients with a history of polyps.
2. Additionally, ACG is urging HHS to require insurers to cover surveillance colonoscopy as a preventive service without cost-sharing.
3. The funding package also extends Medicare telehealth flexibilities through Dec. 31, 2027.
4. The package includes the PBM Reform Act of 2025, which delinks PBM compensation in Medicare Part D from list prices and rebates and instead pays PBMs a flat administrative fee. The reform does not apply to the commercial market.
5. The Nancy Gardner Sewell Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act was also included. The law establishes Medicare coverage for FDA-approved MCED tests beginning in January 2029. The initial payment rate will be tied to existing colorectal cancer screening DNA tests, such as Cologuard, and includes frequency restrictions.
6. The Dr. Lorna Breen Health Care Provider Protection Act was reauthorized through fiscal year 2030 and prioritizes funding for grantees seeking to reduce administrative burden.
