Courage in Action: Cancer Survivors Unite at State Capitol to Advocate for Change
Illinois Must Do Better to Reduce the Burden of Cancer
Michelle Zimmerman
Associate Director, Regional Media Advocacy
Legislature Takes Action to Reduce the Burden of Cancer on Hoosiers
Today, the Legislature Passed Legislation That Will Improve Access to Colorectal Cancer Screenings
March 8, 2022
INDIANAPOLIS, IN. – Today, our elected officials worked to reduce the burden of cancer on Hoosier by passing House Bill 1238, which will eliminate cost sharing for all preventative colorectal cancer screenings, including follow-up colonoscopies after an abnormal stool-based test for most private insurance plans.
“Colorectal cancer remains the second leading cause of cancer death in Indiana, and we know that colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer if Hoosiers have access to screenings,” said Bryan Hannon, American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) government relations director. “ACS CAN thanks lawmakers for prioritizing the health of Hoosiers by eliminating cost sharing for all preventive colorectal cancer screenings for most private insurance plans.”
An estimated 3,290 Hoosier were diagnosed with colorectal cancer this year and 1,160 Hoosiers will die from the disease. Thanks to improving access to critical care, we will see these numbers drop in the years to come.
ACS CAN thanks Senators Bohacek and Zay and Representatives Lehman and Carbaugh for their leadership on this critical legislation. ACS CAN looks forward to seeing Gov. Eric Holcomb sign this piece of legislation soon.
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About ACS CAN at 20
The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) makes cancer a top priority for policymakers at every level of government. ACS CAN empowers volunteers across the country to make their voices heard to influence evidence-based public policy change that saves lives. We believe everyone should have a fair and just opportunity to prevent, find, treat, and survive cancer. Since 2001, as the American Cancer Society’s nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate, ACS CAN has successfully advocated for billions of dollars in cancer research funding, expanded access to quality affordable health care, and made workplaces, including restaurants and bars, smoke-free. As we mark our 20th anniversary, we’re more determined than ever to stand together with our volunteers and save more lives from cancer. Join the fight by visiting www.fightcancer.org.
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