The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) expressed disappointment after the legislature overturned the governor’s veto on a bill restricting Medicaid access.
House Bill 695 introduces work and additional reporting requirements for Medicaid recipients, adding bureaucratic hurdles that could result in many Kentuckians losing coverage, the organization stated.
“Thousands of Kentuckians have cancer, and for many, Medicaid is essential for accessing care,” said Doug Hogan, the network’s government relations director.
“It covers screenings, diagnostic tests, treatments, surgeries, prescriptions, and follow-up care, significantly improving survival chances.”
Hogan highlighted that many cancer patients cannot work during treatment, with 40% to 85% stopping work for periods ranging from 45 days to six months.
Survivors often face chronic health challenges that impact their ability to work.
“Although cancer patients may seem ‘exempt’ from work requirements under House Bill 695, the complicated process of verifying health or work status will inevitably cause some to lose coverage, even if they meet the criteria,” he said.
The ACS CAN criticized the bill’s rapid passage with minimal discussion and expressed its commitment to working with lawmakers to ease the burden of cancer while advocating for better understanding of Medicaid’s role in prevention, detection, and treatment.
Disclaimer- Our team has thoroughly fact-checked this article to ensure its accuracy and maintain its credibility. We are committed to providing honest and reliable content for our readers.