Cancer Bill Draws Differing Opinions

A bill dealing with cancer treatments reached the House after passing unanimously in the Senate, but was met with criticism. SB 652 seeks to have oral forms of chemotherapy treated the same as intravenous chemotherapy under existing insurance coverage.

Despite the common belief this would drive costs up, the 40 states that have similar legislation have shown cost changes are extremely minor. Sponsor of the bill, Senator Goeff Hansen (R-Hart) commented that his late son, who passed away from cancer, was greatly helped through oral treatments. However, these medications remain uncovered and the cost of intravenous chemotherapy can be as much as $10,000 a month.

Chief among those against supplying ill patients with efficacious drugs are the Michigan Association of Health, the National Federation of Independent Business, Small Business Association of Michigan, Michigan Manufacturers Association, Michigan Chamber of Commerce and the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce. The concern with most companies remains the cost.

posted by PAA Online , Friday, January 29, 2016 11:19 AM
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