Endometriosis CARE Act

The Endometriosis CARE Act seeks to enhance research, awareness, and patient support for endometriosis. It authorizes the Director of NIH to conduct or support extensive data collection, surveillance, and research, including efforts to improve treatment options and develop a cure, with an appropriation of $50,000,000 annually from fiscal years 2026 through 2030. This includes establishing an internet clearinghouse for existing research and treatment information for patients and healthcare professionals. The bill also directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to analyze barriers individuals face in accessing endometriosis treatments, such as transportation issues and healthcare professional shortages. This analysis will involve assessing data from Medicaid, CHIP, and private health insurance plans, with a report due to Congress within two years. Furthermore, the Secretary is tasked with developing a public education program to disseminate information on endometriosis awareness, prevalence, mental health impacts, and treatment options, particularly for underserved groups, authorizing $2,000,000 annually for this purpose. To improve professional care, the Secretary must disseminate evidence-based information to healthcare professionals on detecting, diagnosing, and treating endometriosis, also authorizing $2,000,000 annually. Finally, the legislation mandates a study by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine to assess disparities in endometriosis prevalence, detection, treatment, and outcomes across various demographic groups, with recommendations to be reported within 24 months, funded by a $500,000 appropriation.