Introduction of Breast Imaging and Metastatic Step Therapy Legislation Will Benefit Thousands of Michiganders

Susan G. Komen^® Commends Bill Introductions; Urges Quick Passage

LANSING - Susan G. Komen^®, the world's leading breast cancer organization commends Representatives Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) and Matt Longjohn (D-Portage) for working with Komen's Center for Public Policy to introduce legislation on two vitally important issues, removing financial barriers to breast imaging and eliminating step therapy drug protocols for metastatic cancer patients.

"These bills will help address the financial and administrative barriers the breast cancer community face in accessing needed health care services. HB 5205 can make an immediate impact for thousands of Michiganders who require diagnostic or supplemental breast imaging yet are unable to afford it and, as a result, often forego the tests," said Molly Guthrie, Vice President of Policy and Advocacy at Susan G. Komen. "We believe everyone should be able to access the treatments prescribed by their provider without burdensome insurance requirements, especially when it could mean the difference between a person's life and death, and HB 5204 would make that a reality."

HB 5205, introduced by Rep. Longjohn, would eliminate out-of-pocket costs for medically necessary diagnostic and supplemental breast imaging. The exorbitant out-of-pocket costs associated with this critical breast imaging procedures, ranging from hundreds-to-thousands of dollars, often force individuals into the difficult decision of making significant financial sacrifices or foregoing their necessary early detection tests. Delays in imaging will result in later stage diagnoses - when the cancer is much deadlier and much more costly to treat.

"I'm proud to sponsor House Bill 5205, to help ensure access to early breast cancer detection, prevention and follow-up care," said Rep. Longjohn. "As a physician and spouse of a survivor, I want to help Michiganders have the best chance at fight this disease that effects one in eight women. The earlier we can diagnose breast cancer, the quicker we can provide treatment and provide the best health outcome, potentially saving their life."

HB 5204, introduced by Rep. Carter, would prohibit step therapy protocols for advanced, metastatic cancer patients. Step therapy, also referred to as "fail first," requires a patient to first try a preferred (often generic alternative) drug prior to receiving coverage for the originally prescribed drug. Studies have shown that a four-week delay in treatment for metastatic cancer is associated with increased mortality. Patients and physicians should have the opportunity to choose the best treatments and therapies without the burden of overly restrictive cost containment policies.

"I'm proud to sponsor HB 5204 to eliminate insurance barriers for metastatic cancer patients to receive their lifesaving treatment without delay," said Rep. Carter. "I have lost family to this horrific disease, and I want others battling metastatic cancer to have peace of mind knowing that they will have access to the treatment they need without any barriers."