Congressman Boren (D-OK) Announces New Colorectal Cancer Legislation
Posted by Joe Arite on July 24th, 2007
C3: Colorectal Cancer Coalition is proud to support The Colorectal Cancer Screening and Detection Act of 2007 (HR 3060). Americans age 50-64 are a critical group when considering colorectal cancer. HR 3060 will provide the same protections to non-Medicare beneficiaries that are already provided to Medicare beneficiaries.
Congressman Boren lost his mother to colon cancer nine years ago, and personally understands the need for early detection of the disease.
“Cancer unfortunately has affected millions of lives across the United States,” Boren said. “Coverage is required for many other equally important preventative cancer screenings across the nation. With early detection leading to a 90 percent survival rate, a simple and proven procedure could save the lives of so many (of our) loved ones,” Boren said.
“Colorectal cancer patients have been neglected for too long,” said Carlea Bauman, Executive Director of C3: Colorectal Cancer Coalition. “By providing access to screenings for non-Medicare beneficiaries we will see progress against this terrible disease.”
Studies have shown the monthly cost per patient for full colorectal screening coverage is approximately $2.65, while the savings to the employer for medical and non-medical costs is almost $3.00. Once the patient has been diagnosed with the disease, the same monthly cost climbs to almost $5,000 per patient. Additionally, studies have also shown that doctors do not refer their patients for tests if those tests are not covered by insurance.
“Americans deserve these life saving medical benefits and should be able to count on these protections,” Boren said.
Currently, 22 states, including Texas and the District of Columbia, require coverage. Oklahoma does not currently require coverage of these cancer screenings.
Congressman Ralph Hall (R-TX) has join congressman Boren in his fight.
