Coalition Calls on CMS to Overturn Medicare Coverage Cuts for Essential Cancer Genetic Testing
Arlington, VA – A coalition of leading organizations committed to Medicare beneficiaries, healthcare consumers, and taxpayers is calling on the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to prevent a devastating Medicare coverage decision from taking effect. In a letter sent today to Acting Administrator Stephanie Carlton, the coalition urged CMS to rescind the Local Coverage Determination (LCD) issued by Novitas Solutions and First Coast Service Options, which eliminates Medicare coverage for nine previously approved genetic diagnostic cancer tests.
Set to take effect in April, this decision threatens access to life-saving genetic testing used for diagnosing and managing cancer treatment. The coalition raised serious concerns about the lack of transparency and adherence to federal law in the decision-making process.
The coalition also pointed to broader issues with how Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) operate, citing a history of flawed decision-making that has restricted access to essential medical tests. In 2024, MACs similarly disregarded expert recommendations and reduced coverage for critical blood tests used by organ transplant patients to detect organ rejection.
“Our healthcare system should prioritize patient care and scientific evidence—not bureaucratic red tape,” said Steve Pociask, CEO of the American Consumer Institute.
Read the full letter below.