Dr. Marshall Applauds CMS for Unleashing Innovations to Give Seniors Access to the Latest Medical Advancements

(Washington, D.C., January 14, 2021) – Today, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. applauded the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) final rule that propels innovative technology so America’s seniors have access to the latest, most advanced medical devices. This final rule is based off of then-Congressman Marshall’s Ensuring Patient Access to Critical Breakthrough Products Act of 2019 which he introduced alongside Representatives Jackie Walorski (R-IN), Tony Cárdenas (D-CA), Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), and Terri Sewell (D-AL).

“This CMS final rule is great news for Kansas seniors as they will now receive timely access to innovative therapies that bring positive health outcomes,” said Senator Marshall. “By encouraging the development of new medical devices to treat life-threatening illnesses, this helps bridge the coverage gap so our seniors can actually access them. This is common-sense and I’m pleased CMS is working to bring innovative treatments and cures to Kansas seniors.”

Background

The Ensuring Patient Access to Critical Breakthrough Product Act of 2019 would guarantee Medicare beneficiaries access to cutting-edge medical innovation by streamlining the coverage determination process and improving the availability of breakthrough devices for patients. Specifically, the bill temporarily guarantee Medicare coverage of products approved by the FDA with a breakthrough designation. During that temporary coverage period, CMS would be required to make a permanent coverage decision. For a fact sheet on the final rule, click HERE.

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