A number of U.S. senators and representatives have voiced support for colonoscopy's role in colorectal cancer screening.
Here are four things to know, according to the American College of Gastroenterology, American Gastroenterological Association and American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy.
1. Twenty-seven U.S. senators and 94 U.S. representatives lent their voices to letters sent to CMS. The letters asked CMS to consider the effect its proposed colonoscopy reimbursement cuts will have on colorectal cancer screening efforts.
2. Sen. Ben Cardin (D-Md.) and Sen. Bill Cassidy, MD (R-La.) led the effort in the Senate, and Rep. Donald Payne Jr. (D-N.J.) and Leonard Lance (R-N.J.) led the effort in the House.
3. "As a gastroenterologist, I know the value of improving colorectal cancer screening rates in Medicare. We must ensure that any changes made in Medicare reimbursement don't hamper the progress made in cancer screening. These screenings help reduce the rate of colorectal cancer, which is devastating for patients, and costly to the system," said Sen. Cassidy.
4. The ACG, AGA, ASGE plan to continue advocating for adequate colonoscopy reimbursement.