NHC Submits Statement for the Record to House Committee on Energy and Commerce on ASAP Act

Prepared Written Testimony
Randall Rutta
Chief Executive Officer, National Health Council
United States House of Representatives
Committee on Energy and Commerce
September 15, 2026

The National Health Council (NHC) appreciates the opportunity to submit this statement for the record as the House Committee on Energy and Commerce considers health legislation that impacts patients living with chronic diseases and disabilities.

The NHC unites 200+ national organizations-including leading patient groups, research institutions, providers, caregivers, and businesses across the health care sector-to drive patient-centered health policy. Representing more than 200 million Americans with chronic diseases and disabilities, the NHC strengthens its members' collective influence to expand access to quality, affordable, and equitable health care. The NHC fosters collaboration to shape policies that reflect the needs of patients.

ASAP Act
The NHC appreciates that the list of bills under consideration includes the Alzheimer's Screening and Prevention Act of 2025 (ASAP Act). Timely detection of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias can provide clarity during an uncertain time and help individuals and families to make informed decisions about treatment, care, work, finances, work, and future planning.

Blood-based biomarker tests are an emerging tool that can support earlier detection of Alzheimer's disease, but many Medicare beneficiaries still face barriers to accessing them. The ASAP Act would establish Medicare coverage for qualifying early-detection screening tests, helping more beneficiaries access appropriate evaluation, and, when needed, treatment, care, and support.

Earlier detection of Alzheimer's disease can give people more time to understand their treatment options, consider participation in clinical research, plan according to their own priorities and goals, and continue living meaningful, purposeful lives.

Other Legislation
Several other bills under discussion are important to people with chronic diseases and disabilities and are supported by our members. The NHC particularly recognizes
The National Plan for Epilepsy Act, which would establish a coordinated national strategy to advance epilepsy research, improve diagnosis and care, reduce disparities, and support the health and quality of life of people with epilepsy and their caregivers.

Conclusion
The National Health Council urges the Committee to advance the ASAP Act, the National Plan for Epilepsy Act, and other legislation that improves access to timely, coordinated, and patient-centered care.

Thank you for the opportunity to provide this statement for the record and for your bipartisan work on behalf of people with chronic diseases and disabilities and their families. The NHC looks forward to supporting the continued momentum behind these important bills.

Thank you for your attention to these important issues. Please contact Jennifer Dexter, Senior Vice President, Policy and External Affairs, at [email protected] or 202-276-0513 with any questions or requests for additional information.