I am a volunteer with the American Cancer Society Action Network. I joined volunteers in Washington D.C., to ask our U.S. Representatives to make patient care a priority!
Consider these proposed bills:
HR1666 “Patient Centered Quality Care for Life”: When a person hears those dreaded words “you have cancer” they are thrown into a confusing world dealing with pain, fear, treatment and more. This bill improves the quality of life for all patients. It provides better access to coordinated care.
HR1339 “Palliative Care and Hospice Education and Training”: Sadly, we know there is a need but have limited palliative care teams in our hospitals. Studies have shown trained palliative care teams create better outcomes as the whole person is being treated, not just the cancer.
HR1070 “Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act”: Seniors (Medicare) face unexpected bills in the case of polyp removal during a colonoscopy. Colon cancer is the most easily prevented cancers faced today. No polyp … no cancer!
I have heard the words “you have cancer.” I have sat by friends dying from colon cancer. I have walked down the path with friends who have had leukemia, thyroid, breast, lung and brain cancer. I have seen the pain felt by families when their loved ones did not get another birthday. Our fight is not over. Cancer needs to be a national priority!
I am pleased that Rep. Rick Larsen has co-sponsored the ”Patient Centered Quality Care for Life Act.” It is my hope that he joins fellow Rep. Jim McDermott in cosponsoring HR1339 and HR1070.
Christine Griffiths
Bothell
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