Senate Approves ‘Patient Navigator’ Bill To Assist Uninsured Patients Locate Coverage
The Senate on Wednesday passed a bill (HR 1812) by voice vote that would establish a "patient navigator" system to help uninsured patients with chronic illnesses make medical decisions, CQ Today reports. The legislation, sponsored by Rep. Robert Menendez (D-N.J.), would authorize $25 million in grants over five years to establish patient navigator programs in low-income and rural communities nationwide.
Under the system, the programs would help uninsured patients evaluate their treatment options, enroll in clinical trials, obtain referrals and apply for financial assistance. The House passed the legislation earlier this month (Oleksyn, CQ Today, 6/22).