CHEYENNE—Tonight the House Revenue Committee passed House Bill 162 that could increase access to Medicaid for thousands of low-income, uninsured Wyoming residents. Following is a statement from R.J. Ours, the government relations director for the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network:
"Today’s vote is a key step forward for thousands of low-income, uninsured Wyoming residents to gain access to lifesaving health care services. This year, an estimated 3,050 residents will be diagnosed with cancer and far too many will be uninsured when they receive this devastating news.
"Medicaid expansion is critical to saving lives from cancer. The health insurance coverage provided through Medicaid helps to improve outcomes, save lives and reduce the burden of cancer by offering access to primary and preventive care, timely cancer screenings and early detection services, and affordable treatments and care.
"As a result of the pandemic, countless state residents, including cancer patients, have lost their jobs and their employer-sponsored health coverage, had their hours reduced or otherwise faced serious economic hardship. Medicaid expansion will provide those who are newly uninsured with a clear path to comprehensive health coverage to help ease some of their burden and ensure they can access the services to prevent, diagnosis and treat cancer.
"It’s long overdue to increase access to Medicaid in Wyoming, and we urge the members of the House to pass this legislation. It could mean the difference between life or death for those facing a cancer diagnosis."