Mona Shah, Director, Researcher at Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, shared on LinkedIn:
”Earlier in my career, I had the privilege of advocating on behalf of cancer patients and survivors at the American Cancer Society. I saw firsthand how all-consuming a cancer diagnosis is – not just physically, but emotionally, financially, and administratively. It’s important people understand the reality behind these policies. This quote captures that reality:
‘Fighting cancer takes up all your energy. A person should be able to focus on fighting cancer, not filling out endless forms.’ – Breast cancer survivor in Connecticut
Work reporting requirements make it hard for patients to receive the care they need to survive, especially with a diagnosis like cancer.
That’s why this new survey from American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) is so important. It lifts up patient voices and shares their experiences along with the data. One of the most important takeaways is this survey result.
90% of cancer patients say their diagnosis required them to miss work. And yet, Medicaid work requirements are asking them to prove it within 30 days or lose their coverage.
I’ve seen enough evidence to know work reporting requirements don’t work. They just create more barriers for people who need care.”
Other articles about ACS CAN on OncoDaily.