WASHINGTON — U.S. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) joined a group of senators in introducing legislation to expand Medicare coverage for genetic counseling services.
The Access to Genetic Counselor Services Act, introduced alongside Sen. John Barrasso (R-WY), Sen. Peter Welch (D-VT), and Sen. Jacky Rosen (D-NV), would allow Medicare to directly reimburse licensed genetic counselors for their services. Currently, these professionals are not covered under Medicare, even though patients can receive the same services from other health care providers. Advocates say the lack of coverage limits access, particularly in rural areas, and can contribute to longer wait times for patients.
Capito said the legislation would help reduce barriers to care and improve access, particularly in rural states.
“By recognizing genetic counselors as Medicare providers, this bipartisan legislation will help reduce barriers to care, shorten wait times, and expand access to these critical services,” Capito said in a statement.
Genetic counselors assist patients in understanding inherited health risks and interpreting genetic test results, which can inform treatment decisions, personalize care plans, and support earlier detection of disease.
The bill has been referred to committees in the Senate for further consideration.
