As a cancer survivor I have heard the words “You have cancer.” I know the uncertainty and fear that a person faces. Hearing those words is incredibly difficult. I however, did not have to battle cancer during a global pandemic. That is a nightmare I can only imagine.
Many cancer patients have compromised immune systems and are at a higher risk for COVID-19, which makes accessing cancer treatment right now terrifying. As an American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network volunteer, I am asking Congress to improve access to oral chemotherapy so Washington cancer patients can get treatment from the safety of their own homes.
Many insurance plans charge significantly more for oral chemotherapy drugs. These drugs are not necessarily more expensive, but patients’ out-of-pocket cost for oral therapies is higher. While Washington state legislation passed in 2011 to ensure oral chemotherapy is covered the same way as IV chemotherapy, cancer patients on federal health plans do not have this benefit because the federal government has not made it possible.
By requiring health plans to provide the same level of coverage for oral chemotherapy, Congress could make it easier for Washingtonians with cancer to access treatment and help reduce their already heightened risk to COVID-19.
Join me in urging U.S. Sen. Patty Murray to help ease the burden of cancer for Washington and our health care infrastructure by including the Cancer Drug Parity Act in the next stimulus package.
Christine Griffiths
Snohomish
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