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Michelle Zimmerman
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Rep. Manchester Files Legislation Aimed at Improving Access to Care for Ohioans
Rep. Susan Manchester reintroduced legislation that passed the House unanimously during the last session.
May 23, 2023
Statement from American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) Government Relations Director Leo Almeida
COLUMBUS, OHIO – “Yesterday, Rep. Susan Manchester reintroduced legislation that passed the House unanimously during the last session. This legislation would address co-pay accumulator adjustment programs and ensure Ohioans receive the total value of prescription drug assistance to afford their treatments, improving access to care for Ohioans.
“Many cancer patients and individuals living with chronic medical conditions have difficulty affording the cost of their prescription drugs. This is especially true for newer drugs – including cancer drugs – that do not yet have a generic equivalent. To help temper high prescription costs, many of these individuals receive copay assistance offered through manufacturer programs and charitable patient assistance programs.
“Unfortunately for many, this copay assistance is increasingly not treated the same as copays that are paid with cash and therefore not applied to the patient’s deductible and out of pocket financial responsibilities. This means patients using these copay assistance programs are still responsible for the entire deductible and out of pocket maximums as the assistance is not benefitting them in the intended way.
“The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network thanks Rep. Manchester for sponsoring this critical step in improving access to prescription drugs for individuals with cancer and other illnesses and looks forward to working with the rest of the legislature to pass this critical legislation.”
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About ACS CAN:
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 improves the lives of people with cancer and their families. 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 advanced proven tobacco control measures. We’re more determined than ever to stand together with our volunteers to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. Join the fight by visiting www.fightcancer.org.
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