In a historic vote, the U.S. Senate this morning passed comprehensive health reform legislation that would dramatically improve access to affordable, quality care and significantly improve the health care system for cancer patients and their families.
As the leading voice of patients in the debate, the American Cancer Society Cancer Action NetworkSM (ACS CAN) worked with lawmakers from both parties to ensure the bill meets the needs of people with cancer by:
• Elevating the importance of prevention;
• Guaranteeing quality, affordable coverage regardless of pre-existing conditions;
• Reducing the cost burden on families;
• Covering routine health costs for those who enroll in clinical trials; and
• Emphasizing patients’ quality of life.
ACS CAN successfully advocated for a number of improvements to the bill during the Senate debate, including the elimination of annual benefit caps that could subject cancer patients to a sudden termination of coverage for critical care. The bill, however, is by no means perfect. As House and Senate conferees convene in early January to merge their separate versions of the legislation, ACS CAN will continue its efforts to produce the strongest possible bill for cancer patients and their families.
Improving access to health care nationwide is necessary to achieve the American Cancer Society’s ambitious 2015 goals to reduce cancer incidence and mortality. Thanks to the more than 100,000 calls and emails ACS CAN volunteers have directed at lawmakers since June, the nation now stands on the cusp of major systemic improvements that will dramatically expand access to quality, affordable care. The time for Congress to act is now, not later.
Additional information about ACS CAN’s efforts to pass comprehensive health care reform is available there and on the ACS CAN Web site at fightcancer.org.
As we prepare to celebrate the holidays with our loved ones, we thank you for all you do to make our lifesaving work possible. We look forward to renewing our commitment to our common cause in 2010.
May you enjoy the peace of the season and have the happiest of new years.
John R. Seffrin, PhD | Chief Executive Officer