Legislation is a key component of the ability to provide accessible healthcare to all
people. Genetics and genomics are becoming increasingly integrated into healthcare, and
many individuals will encounter some form of screening or testing that relates to a
genetic or inherited condition at some point in their lives.
There is legislation that has been introduced in the House of Representatives, H.R. 3235,
the “Access to Genetic Counselor Services Act of 2019,” which would authorize the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to recognize certified genetic counselors as healthcare providers and improve Medicare beneficiaries’ accessibility to genetic counselors.
Why is it important for genetic counselors to be recognized by the Centers for Medicare
and Medicaid Services (CMS)?
There are many reasons why it is important for genetic coun
selors to be recognized by CMS. The primary reason is that without being recognized, genetic counselors cannot bill CMS for patient care like doctors, nurses, and other healthcare providers do. Sometimes, this means that people with Medicare can only meet
with a genetic counselor if they payout of pocket. It also means that it is very difficult for the field of genetic counseling to grow, and for genetic counselors to reach people with barriers to healthcare. It is the belief of the National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC) that recognition by CMS will increase access to care by easing the process for genetic counselors to work with patient populations in all areas and with all forms of insurance.
For more information regarding the bill, check out the NSGC website.
Providing support for this legislation is easy! In a few brief moments, you can send an email to your local congressperson. NSGC has drafted an email that you can personalize or send as it is. You can also send these links to family and friends, regardless of where they live.
