Genomics is a rapidly advancing field with clear clinical application. Discoveries supported by years of federal investment are reaching patients at an accelerating pace, transforming fundamental genetic knowledge into clinical advances. As genetic testing expands, the primary bottleneck is no longer discovery but implementation. Genetic counselors are essential to this process. When Medicare does not reimburse their services, the result is not only reduced access, but inefficient use of scientific progress: findings that require substantial time and public funding are misinterpreted, underutilized, or not integrated into care.&nbsp;
We are asking you to support the Access to Genetic Counselor Services Act, H.R. 6280, led by Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE) and Rep. Kathy Castor (D-FL) and S. 3607, sponsored by Sen. John Barrasso (R-WY and Sen. Peter Welch (D-VT).&nbsp;
This bill would finally recognize genetic counselors as Medicare providers and ensure that beneficiaries can access the personalized, high-quality care they deserve.&nbsp;

Support the Access to Genetic Counselor Services Act

I write as both a constituent and a researcher in the field of genetics to express strong support for the Access to Genetic Counselor Services Act, H.R. 6280 and S. 3607. My perspective is informed not only by research, but by observing how the lack of reimbursable genetic counseling services limits effective patient care in the broader health ecosystem.

Genomics is a rapidly advancing field with clear clinical application. Discoveries supported by years of federal investment are reaching patients at an accelerating pace, transforming fundamental genetic knowledge into clinical advances. As genetic testing expands, the primary bottleneck is no longer discovery but implementation. Genetic counselors are essential to this process. When Medicare does not reimburse their services, the result is not only reduced access, but inefficient use of scientific progress: findings that require substantial time and public funding are misinterpreted, underutilized, or not integrated into care.

In my work, I see the critical role genetic counselors play in helping patients and clinicians interpret complex genetic information and make informed decisions. Despite their specialized training and central role in precision medicine, Medicare does not recognize genetic counselors as providers. This gap creates barriers to care, particularly for older adults, and constrains health systems’ ability to incorporate genetic services effectively. It is also an inefficient use of healthcare resources: reimbursing genetic counselors reduces unnecessary testing and improves clinical decision-making, aligning spending with value rather than increasing it.

I urge you to cosponsor the Access to Genetic Counselor Services Act, H.R. 6280, led by Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE) and Rep. Kathy Castor (D-FL), and S. 3607, led by Sen. John Barrasso (R-WY) and Sen. Peter Welch (D-VT). 

Please stand with patients,  health systems, academia, healthcare workers and researchers by supporting this important bill.

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