NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Gov. Bill Lee signed HB 2954/SB2883 this week, making Tennessee the sixth state in the U.S. to enhance coverage of prostate cancer screenings for high-risk men. The state’s “PSA Screening For HIM” bill eliminates costs for certain patients to get these lifesaving screenings, thus reducing barriers and increasing access to care for men over 40 with certain risk factors.
It’s estimated more than 6,000 Tennesseans will receive a prostate cancer diagnosis in 2024. Some are at a higher risk of developing prostate cancer than others, including African American men and those who have a first-degree relative with a prostate cancer history. Prostate cancer survival rates increase when detected early, highlighting the importance of access to screenings.
The law goes into effect July 1, 2024.
In response, Maddie Michael, Tennessee government relations director for the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN), released the following statement:
“This is a great path forward for Tennessee to be a nationwide leader in helping to reduce the cancer burden. ACS CAN fully supports the PSA Screening for HIM Act because all men at high-risk for prostate cancer and those who have made an informed decision with their doctor to get screened should have access to a screening that is barrier-free without cost-sharing.
“We are encouraged by the extensive bipartisan support around this legislation and thank the numerous co-sponsors from both sides of the aisle. We also sincerely thank Rep. GA Hardaway, Sen. Sara Kyle and Sen. Raumesh Akbari for championing the legislation and Gov. Bill Lee for signing it into law.
“This will make a huge difference for all Tennesseans, especially those at high-risk for prostate cancer who may otherwise not access a screening due to cost barriers.”
###
About ACS CAN
The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) advocates for evidence-based public policies to reduce the cancer burden for everyone. We engage our volunteers across the country to make their voices heard by policymakers at every level of government. We believe everyone should have a fair and just opportunity to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer. Since 2001, as the American Cancer Society’s nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate, ACS CAN has successfully advocated for billions of dollars in cancer research funding, expanded access to quality affordable health care, and advanced proven tobacco control measures. We stand with our volunteers, working to make cancer a top priority for policymakers in cities, states and our nation’s capital. Join the fight by visiting www.fightcancer.org.