| Washington - October 05, 1999 -
During discussions with President Clinton today, the American
Cancer Society announced its full support for the Norwood-Dingell
Bipartisan Consensus Managed Care Improvement Act, H.R. 2723. The
bill pending before the U.S. House of Representatives is the last
chance this year for managed care reform that adequately provides
for the needs of those affected by cancer, said John R. Seffrin,
Ph.D., chief executive officer of the Society.
"It's vital Congress move forward with the managed care reform
opportunity it has before it right now. People affected by cancer
now and in the future deserve to know they have the best chance of
surviving this terrible disease," said Seffrin. "That means they
must have access to quality care. With nearly 40 percent of
Americans expected to face cancer at some point in their lifetimes,
it is imperative Congress act now and embrace the Norwood-Dingell
bill."
The American Cancer Society supports H.R. 2723 because it offers:
- Direct access to clinical trials
- Increased access to specialists
- Continuity of care
- Timely, strong and enforceable grievance and appeals
procedures
Seffrin added, "Congress must now do what all of
America is asking it to do: Pass meaningful managed care reform
legislation. The House of Representatives has within its grasp the
opportunity to do just that.
"With nearly every American affected directly and indirectly by
the number-two disease killer in our country, cancer must be stopped
in every way it can. The bi-partisan Norwood-Dingell bill is the
right option for cancer patients and their families. We ask the
House to end the politics and move forward now," said Seffrin.
The House is set to vote on patient protection/managed care
reform legislation this week.
The American Cancer Society is the nationwide community-based
voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a
major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives and
diminishing suffering from cancer, through research, education,
advocacy and service.
For information about cancer, call toll-free anytime
1-800-ACS-2345 or visit the American Cancer Society Website at
www.cancer.org.
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