CAP Commends Introduction of Bill to Increase Transparency in the Medicare Local Coverage Process

Contact: Apoorva Stall
Phone: 202-354-7102
E-mail: media@cap.org

Washington, DC—The College of American Pathologists (CAP) commends the re-introduction of Local Coverage Determination Clarification Act of 2017 in the US House of Representatives. The bill would improve transparency and accountability when Medicare contractors set local coverage determination (LCD) policies for physician services provided to Medicare beneficiaries.

Representatives Lynn Jenkins (R-KS) and Ron Kind (D-WI) introduced this fundamental piece of legislation for physicians and patients on August 1 and have been working with the CAP on improving the LCD process for patients. The House bill, together with the Senate version of the bill that was introduced on March 30, will pave the way for much needed LCD reform.

"Essential changes to this existing legislation would guarantee that Medicare local coverage determinations do not impede a physician's medical judgment and deny patients access to crucial medical care. The House bill would certify that coverage decisions are made by experienced, independent health experts through a transparent process that is based on sound medical evidence," said CAP President Richard C. Friedberg, MD, PhD, FCAP. "The CAP appreciates that Representatives Jenkins and Kind for introducing this significant legislation in the House on behalf of patients and the physicians who treat them."

The CAP developed a Lcd Infographic explaining the key provisions of the legislation.

About the College of American Pathologists

As the world's largest organization of board-certified pathologists and leading provider of laboratory accreditation and proficiency testing programs, the College of American Pathologists (CAP) serves patients, pathologists, and the public by fostering and advocating excellence in the practice of pathology and laboratory medicine worldwide. For more information, read the 2017 CAP Annual Report at CAP.ORG.