HARRISBURG, Sept. 21 – Insurance companies would be required to provide coverage for prostate cancer screenings under legislation introduced by state Rep. Jeanne McNeill.

“Prostate cancer is one of the most common causes of cancer among men and it affects our husbands, fathers, brothers, loved ones and friends,” said McNeill, D-Lehigh. “By requiring coverage in insurance policies, we ensure that our friends and family receive the proper care they deserve early enough before it is too late.”

According to data from the American Cancer Society, one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. The illness can also lay dormant for many years without going detected; screenings can help find the cancer at an early stage.

Under McNeill’s bill, insurers would be required to provide access to prostate-specific antigen blood tests and digital rectal examinations annually to those identified as being at average or high risk of prostate cancer. These screenings would be administered under the screening guidelines provided by the American Cancer Society.

Added McNeill, “I have always believed in access to quality health care, and I hope my colleagues on both sides of the aisle will work together so we can protect Pennsylvanians from this terrible illness.”

House Bill 2842 has bipartisan support and has been referred to the House Insurance Committee for consideration.

 

 

Information provided to TVL by:
Thomas LeClair
House Democratic Communications Office

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