Washington, D.C. – July 2, 2009 – When Congress returns from its Independence Day recess, health care reform will be at the top of the agenda. Cancer patients and survivors have some of the most challenging experiences with our health care system, at a time in their lives when they are most vulnerable. As such, their experiences highlight some underlying problems that impact everyone.
To address these issues and to ensure the voice of cancer patients and survivors is heard in the health care reform debate, the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Advocacy Alliance has unveiled a new white paper that examines some of the main concerns of cancer patients and offers suggested reforms.
“Devising a health care system for 300 million people is a complicated endeavor,” said Ambassador Nancy G. Brinker, chair of the Komen Advocacy Alliance. “Yet it is an exercise that is aided by the extensive experiences of the community of cancer survivors – experiences that should be considered before any reform is enacted."
The Komen Advocacy Alliance calls on Congress to:
Increase the investment in federal and state programs that provide cancer screening, treatment and patient navigation services for underserved populations.
Protect cancer patients who have health insurance from excessive out-of-pocket costs that may lead to severe financial hardship and even bankruptcy.
Ensure access to affordable, high-quality health insurance for all, including people with “pre-existing” conditions like cancer — so everyone can continue to have health insurance, even if they lose or change jobs.
Enhance the quality and value of health care by focusing on prevention, wellness and chronic disease management.
Address the chronic shortage of cancer care specialists, particularly in underserved areas.
“Health reform provides us with the opportunity to create a shinning example of how a generous and compassionate nation cares for the most vulnerable of its citizens – and the world will be watching,” said Brinker. “With incidence and mortality rates increasing across the globe, this example is needed now more than ever.”
Click here to learn more about Komen and Health Care Reform.
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