Pennsylvania Cancer Action Center

A new report by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) found that over 70% of commercially-insured patients encountered out-of-pocket expenses for follow-up breast cancer diagnostic tests in 2023. These follow-up tests, such as a diagnostic mammogram, MRI, ultrasound or biopsy, are medically recommended next steps to determine if an individual may or may not have cancer; however, barriers like cost can keep people from getting them.

The following is a statement from American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) Pennsylvania Government Relations Director Donna Greco: “In 2024, ACS CAN was proud to see the Pennsylvania Legislature mobilize swiftly and in a bipartisan manner to bring the promise of precision medicine to more patients. Beginning in the new year, Act 39 of 2024 will make it so that all patients who can benefit and are insured through a state-regulated health plan will receive coverage for biomarker testing, a game changer in the fight against cancer and an essential step in accessing precision medicine treatments. Pennsylvanians also secured a victory for access to care through Act 42 of 2024, the newly enacted legislation that includes telemedicine as a covered benefit in the Commonwealth.

Harrisburg residents and cancer advocates gathered at the Pennsylvania War Veterans’ Memorial Fountain outside of the Capitol building in Harrisburg this evening to honor the lives affected by cancer with a heartfelt display of 270 Lights of Hope bags representing the estimated 27,000 Pennsylvanians who will die from the disease in 2024. The personalized Lights of Hope bags were lined along the fountain, which was lit pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, to symbolize the strength, hope and memories of those touched by cancer.

Senator Devlin Robinson received the National Distinguished Advocacy Award this week, the most prestigious award presented by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN), in recognition of his significant contribution in the fight against cancer.