Access to Health Care

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Access to Care

   

Access to Health Care in New Jersey

Approximately 1 million New Jersey residents (about 15% of the population) lack health insurance coverage. Individuals without routine access to primary healthcare do not receive timely care, such as cancer screenings to detect the onset of the disease.

It is a fundamental principle for the American Cancer Society that all individuals should have fair and equal access to quality cancer care in the health system.

The health system should ensure the comprehensive continuum of quality cancer care, including adequate coverage for prevention, early detection and screening, diagnosis, treatment, palliative care, rehabilitation and long-term care.


Get Involved: Tell Us Your Story

The health care crisis is effecting millions of Americans.  Let your voice be heard.Has your battle against cancer been impacted by lack of insurance or inadequate insurance coverage?  Let us share your experience with lawmakers and the media in order to bring about needed change to our health care system. Tell your story today just by following the link below.

Share your story here>>>

The Latest Update

7/8/08 - Today marks an historic day in New Jersey, as Governor Corzine signed into law Bill S-1557. This legislation marks the first phase of health care legislation that will provide health coverage for all of New Jersey's residents.

The plan, which was proposed and sponsored by Senator Joseph Vitale, is seen not only as a positive step for health coverage for all residents, but also in the fight against cancer.

The American Cancer Society's advocacy team and senior leadership has worked alongside Senator Vitale and his advisors as they developed the plan, ensuring that his plan meets our 4 A's of meaningful health insurance.The new law will require all children to have coverage, and allow parents to get subsidies when they need help to pay for insurance.

Nearly a quarter-million NJ kids under age 18 will be impacted.Also, FamilyCare, which provides comprehensive cancer care, is opened up to working parents making up to 200% of the poverty level, with sliding scale premiums. This can open up insurance to another 82,000 adults. NJ has about 1.3 million uninsured individuals, so these measures still leave nearly 1 million people without insurance coverage, which means they have a much higher risk for dying, if they get cancer.

Important Documents and Links:

Read our statment applauding Governor Corzine's signing of health care reform in New Jersey here>>>
Read the text of health care reform S-1557 here>>>
View our invitation to the June 24th Forum at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Avenel here>>>
Learn more about the Fight Back Express, our nationwide bus tour to raise awareness here>>>
Support the Fight Back Express here>>>.

 

       
 

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