With crossover day looming, survivor advocates with the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) are celebrating the passage of Senate Bill 161/House Bill 625 in their respective chambers. The same advocates gathered at the General Assembly earlier this month for ACS CAN’s annual Cancer Action Day to push for the legislation that would require insurers to offer flat-dollar copay-only plans instead of relying solely on coinsurance, which forces patients to pay a percentage of their medication’s cost. If signed by Governor Spanberger, more Virginians will gain more options and encounter fewer surprises when it comes to the cost of their care.
In response, Mollie Montague, government relations director for ACS CAN in Virginia, said the following:
“Cancer is full of uncertainties. Patients shouldn’t have to wonder what their lifesaving medication will cost. Yet, nearly one in three Virginians worry they won’t be able to afford their medications next year. Virginians need clear health care choices and control over their budgets, and these bills deliver that at no cost to the Commonwealth.
“Senate Bill 161/House Bill 625 makes prescription costs more predictable, transparent and affordable. For cancer survivors who depend on long-term treatment, the stakes couldn’t be higher. We’re glad to see the House and a bipartisan majority of Senators prioritize patients’ pockets and look forward to seeing them send Governor Spanberger a bill that fulfills her promise to lower costs.”
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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.