Washington, D.C. — In a new letter, House Energy and Commerce Committee Republican Leader Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) asks Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) Xavier Becerra to take immediate action on the lack of reliable prenatal testing. Recent reporting from the New York Timesraised serious concerns about extremely unreliable prenatal testing services, which have caused some women to end their pregnancies. 

Key excerpts from Leader Rodgers’ letter: 

RELIABILITY: “The Times’ report found that these tests are frequently wrong, sometimes more than 90 percent wrong for some genetic conditions. However, the Times reported that on product brochures and test result sheets, companies describe the tests to pregnant women and their doctors as near certain. Specifically, they advertise their findings as “reliable” and “highly accurate,” offering “total confidence” and “peace of mind” for expectant mothers who want to know as much as possible.” 

WHAT UNITES US: “Every woman’s journey to motherhood is different. Something that unites us is the uncertainty and the fear of the unknown. That should not be exploited with inaccurate tests that compound stress and anxiety during pregnancy. It is shocking that the laboratories and doctors recommended these tests without honestly communicating, or even worse, without knowing, the flaws of these tests.” 

Leader Rodgers’ letter concludes, “These inaccurate results have led to devasting consequences. Every life should be given a chance, and I urge you to take immediate action in order to help prevent these avoidable tragedies and support pregnant women.” 

CLICK HERE to read the full letter. 

CLICK HERE to read more from the New York Times.