Healey Signs Bill to Address Breast Cancer Screening Inequities
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Emily Burr
Director, Media Advocacy
Medicaid, Patient Navigation
Washington, D.C.
Mississippi Lawmakers Stand in the Way of Protecting Patients
April 30, 2024
JACKSON, Miss. – The following is a statement from the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN), the American Heart Association, the American Lung Association and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society® (LLS) in reaction to the conference report released late Monday night that creates barriers through work requirements for people who need health insurance. This will ultimately increase barriers to Medicaid health care coverage and will not close the coverage gap.
“Mississippi state lawmakers thwarted months of work from members in both Chambers to extend Medicaid eligibility to 200,000 more hard-working Mississippians, including people living with chronic conditions such as cancer, heart disease and diabetes, and military veterans. The inability to produce a viable Medicaid expansion plan in the conference means that Mississippi residents will remain in the coverage gap without access to health care coverage for services like cancer screenings and treatment and medications to treat high blood pressure, diabetes, asthma and COPD, for at least another year.
“By including work requirements in the Medicaid expansion report, lawmakers are erecting barriers to health care instead of increasing access to it. There is still time for legislators to do right by hard-working Mississippians this session. The Mississippi Legislature has the time and the power to extend Medicaid eligibility, without barriers, to the 200,000 Mississippians whose lives and health are in jeopardy.”
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About ACS CAN
The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) advocates for evidence-based public policies to reduce the cancer burden for everyone. We engage our volunteers across the country to make their voices heard by policymakers at every level of government. We believe everyone should have a fair and just opportunity to prevent, detect, 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 advanced proven tobacco control measures. We stand with our volunteers, working to make cancer a top priority for policymakers in cities, states and our nation’s capital. Join the fight by visiting www.fightcancer.org.
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for a century. During 2024 - our Centennial year - we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
About the American Lung Association
The American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through education, advocacy and research. The work of the American Lung Association is focused on four strategic imperatives: to defeat lung cancer; to champion clean air for all; to improve the quality of life for those with lung disease and their families; and to create a tobacco-free future. For more information about the American Lung Association, which has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and is a Platinum-Level GuideStar Member, call 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872) or visit: Lung.org. To support the work of the American Lung Association, find a local event at Lung.org/events.
About the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society® (LLS)
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society® (LLS) is the global leader in the fight against blood cancer. The LLS mission: Cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease, and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. LLS funds lifesaving blood cancer research around the world, provides free information and support services, and is the voice for all blood cancer patients seeking access to quality, affordable, coordinated care.
Founded in 1949 and headquartered in Rye Brook, NY, LLS has regions throughout the United States and Canada. To learn more, visit www.LLS.org. Patients should contact the Information Resource Center at (800) 955-4572, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET.
LLS is the only organization featured in the nonprofit category on both Fast Company's 2022 Brands That Matter list and the 2023 Best Workplaces for Innovators list. LLS stands out among brands around the world for its relevancy, cultural impact, ingenuity, and mission impact.
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