Healey Signs Bill to Address Breast Cancer Screening Inequities
Legislation will eliminate costly barriers to follow up breast cancer screening
Michelle Zimmerman
Associate Director, Regional Media Advocacy
State Lawmakers Prioritized Landmark Legislation Benefiting Cancer Patients
Historic Session Yields Comprehensive Support Measures for Cancer Care and Research
May 30, 2024
SPRINGFIELD, IL – “The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) commends the state legislature for their outstanding commitment to the well-being of cancer patients by passing a series of crucial bills designed to enhance research and access to care for those affected by cancer,” said Ally Lopshire, government relations director for the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network. “This progressive legislative action demonstrates a significant step forward in reducing the burden of cancer for Illinoisans and provides much-needed relief and resources to patients and their families.”
Legislation passed by lawmakers this year that will support those impacted by cancer:
Clinical trials legislation, HB 5405, will improve diversity and reduce barriers to clinical trials, which are essential in the fight against cancer.
Genetic testing legislation, SB 2679, requiring state-regulated health plans to provide coverage for cancer-related genetic testing at a cost of no more than $50 to patients, will ensure more patients have the information they need to better understand their lifetime cancer risk.
Short-term health plans, HB 2499, a provision banning short-term health plans, will help ensure cancer patients in Illinois have access to affordable, comprehensive health coverage.
Medical debt protection measures, removing medical debt from credit reports and creating a program to provide medical debt relief for thousands of Illinoisans will help reduce the burden of medical debt on cancer patients throughout the state.
Cancer screening funding: $14.5 million in funding for the Illinois Breast & Cervical Cancer Program and $2.2 million in funding for lung and colorectal cancer screenings will ensure more people have the opportunity to receive lifesaving cancer screenings and treatment services.
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