hold on there's just too much going on in Congress lmao...
Expands Medicare to cover genetic counseling services.
Introduced by Sens. Barrasso (R-WY), Welch (D-VT), Capito (R-WV), Rosen (D-NV).
Introduced in Senate, referred to Committee on Finance.
This bill proposes to add genetic counseling services to the list of services covered under Medicare Part B, starting January 1, 2027. It defines who qualifies as a genetic counselor (state-licensed or board-certified). The bill was introduced by a bipartisan group of senators and has been sent to a Senate committee for review, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full Senate.
Introduced Jan 8, 2026
The bill was introduced in the Senate on January 8, 2026, and referred to the Senate Committee on Finance. Before it can become law, the committee must approve it, then the full Senate must pass it, followed by passage in the House of Representatives, and finally, the President must sign it.
Starting January 1, 2027, if you are a Medicare Part B beneficiary and need genetic counseling, Medicare will cover a portion of the cost. This means you will only be responsible for your deductible and 20% of the Medicare-approved amount. The bill also includes provisions to prevent balance billing, ensuring that genetic counselors cannot charge you more than Medicare's allowed amount. The services would need to be provided by a state-licensed genetic counselor, or by one who is certified by the American Board of Genetic Counseling if your state does not require a license.
Supporters Say
Supporters would argue this bill increases access to important genetic counseling services for Medicare beneficiaries.
Critics Say
Critics might raise concerns about the potential increased costs to the Medicare program for expanded coverage.
Those in favor of the bill would likely highlight that it modernizes Medicare coverage to include essential genetic counseling, allowing seniors and individuals with disabilities better access to personalized health information. Opponents could point to the financial implications of adding new covered services to the already large Medicare budget, though the bill text itself does not specify these arguments.