Idaho Press Tribune LTE: Thanks to Sen. Crapo for work on screening bill

\Idaho Press Tribune
February 14, 2026
By Angie Lewis

Congress has taken a significant step toward improving cancer screening and detection for seniors on Medicare. On February 3, the bipartisan Multi-Cancer Early Detection (MCED) Act was officially signed into law, marking an important win for patients, families, and physicians nationwide.

I want to thank Senator Crapo for his leadership in authoring and advancing the MCED Act, as well as Idaho’s entire congressional delegation for helping get this critical legislation across the finish line. Their efforts ensure that innovation in early cancer detection can finally reach the seniors who need it most.

Too many cancers are still diagnosed at later stages, when treatment becomes more invasive, harder, and more expensive. This problem is especially significant in rural states like Idaho, where access to specialists and advanced screening options can be limited.

MCED blood tests, when used alongside existing screenings, could help detect multiple cancers earlier with a simple blood draw. With this law now in effect, Medicare patients and their doctors will have a clearer way to access these potentially life-saving tools once they are proven safe and effective.

This is an important step toward earlier cancer detection, improved outcomes, and greater hope for Idaho families.

Angie Lewis
Meridian