Bill Introduced to Expand Access to Lung Cancer Screening

U.S. Reps. Raul Ruiz, MD (D-CA), Gabe Evans (R-CO), and Debbie Wasserman Shultz (D-FL), introduced ACR®-supported legislation July 15, that would establish a grant program to fund the purchase of new mobile cancer screening units, bringing essential screenings directly to those who need them most. The Mobile Cancer Screening Act (H.R. 4417) particularly helps individuals living in rural or underserved areas who often find it difficult to access cancer screenings.

The bill would enable healthcare organizations to purchase new mobile cancer screening units under a program within the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), with an emphasis on lung cancer. The grants would cover most of the costs for a new unit, including the vehicle, low-dose CT and software.

In a statement released by Rep. Ruiz, ACR CEO, Dana H. Smetherman, MD, MPH, MBA, FACR, said, “Lifesaving imaging technologies cannot save lives if they are not available in our communities. This bill is an important step toward ensuring and expanding access to modern screening exams, helping us catch more cancers early, and giving more people the chance to live longer, healthier lives.”

If you have questions, contact Ashley Walton, ACR Government Affairs Director.