The Lead Off Cancer survivors met with Michigan lawmakers in Lansing to support legislation aimed at lowering prescription drug costs. Senate Bill 914 would require copay assistance payments to count toward patient deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums. Advocates say the proposal could help pa tients begin treatment sooner by reducing upfront costs. LANSING, MICH. (WOWO) Cancer survivors and advocates met with Michigan lawmakers Wednesday to urge support for legislation they say would reduce the cost burden of life-saving prescription medications. The proposal, Senate Bill 914, would require that prescription drug payments made by patients or on their behalf—such as through copay assistance programs—be applied toward a patient’s deductible and annual out-of-pocket maximum. The measure is supported by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, which says the change would help patients access treatment sooner by reducing upfront financial barriers according to WILX. Advocates say bill addresses out-of-pocket cost burden Supporters of the legislation argue that current insurance practices can prevent copay assistance from counting toward a patient’s overall cost limits, leaving patients to continue paying high expenses even after receiving financial help. Advocates said the bill is intended to ensure that financial assistance actually reduces long-term costs for patients undergoing treatment. They described the proposal as a “common-sense fix” designed to align insurance accounting practices with patient needs. Survivors describe financial strain during treatment Ovarian cancer survivor Stacey Goins shared her experience with the cost of medication during treatment. “That price tag, I was told in January, I may have to pay up to $2,500 when I went to pick up that medication,” Goins said. “I cashed in vacation time trying to be able to afford this medication.” Goins said she was later able to access an assistance program through her oncologist’s office, which helped reduce her out-of-pocket costs. Push for legislative action Volunteers and advocates met with state senators in Lansing to encourage movement on the bill. They are urging lawmakers to bring Senate Bill 914 to a vote, saying patients should be able to focus on treatment decisions in consultation with their doctors rather than being limited by cost considerations at the pharmacy counter. Next steps Senate Bill 914 remains under consideration in the Michigan Legislature. Advocates say they will continue lobbying lawmakers for action as the proposal moves through the legislative process. The post Cancer Patients Call for Vote on Bill Aimed at Cutting Medication Costs appeared first on WOWO News/Talk 92.3 FM and 1190 AM. ...read more read less