Kentucky's House Bill 695 Sparks Cancer Advocates' Concern Over Health Coverage
House Bill 695 has swiftly passed through Kentucky's legislature, sparking concern among cancer survivors and advocates. The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) has expressed disappointment, warning of potential loss of health insurance coverage for Kentuckians.
The bill, which imposes work requirements and additional reporting for Medicaid recipients, has raised alarms among cancer survivors. Many continue to grapple with chronic issues due to treatments, impacting their ability to work. Between 40% and 85% of cancer patients stop working during treatment, with absences ranging from 45 days to six months.
ACS CAN believes the administrative complexity of verifying health or work status in House Bill 695 may lead to loss of health insurance coverage for compliant individuals. The organization is concerned that the 'unnecessary red tape' created by the bill will hinder access to Medicaid for cancer patients, who rely on it for screenings, treatments, and follow-up care.
House Bill 695 has been passed despite the governor's veto. ACS CAN looks forward to collaborating with lawmakers to mitigate the burden of cancer and educate them on the critical role of Medicaid in cancer prevention, detection, and treatment. The organization remains committed to ensuring that cancer patients in Kentucky have access to the care they need.
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