The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) has sent a letter asking every candidate running for a U.S. House of Representatives seat in California to promise to oppose any legislation that the Congressional Budget Office determines would reduce coverage for the Medi-Cal population.
The benefits and services provided through Medi-Cal are critical in preventing cancer and catching the disease early, before it advances and rates of survivorship decrease. Medi-Cal coverage spans the cancer continuum – from prevention and early detection, to diagnostic and treatment services, through cancer survivorship or end-of-life care, all of which are important in the fight against cancer.
The care provided to low-income Californians includes comprehensive tobacco cessation services, as well as cancer screenings and treatments including Pap tests, mammograms, radiation and chemotherapy. They also include second opinions after a cancer diagnosis to ensure the correct course of therapy, and cover experimental treatments and clinical trials.