Cancer patients and survivors have some of the most challenging experiences with our health care system, at a time in their lives when they are most vulnerable.

Congress is moving quickly to draft health care reform legislation, but we need your help to ensure President Obama and Congress consider the needs of people diagnosed with breast cancer – and all cancers – as part of the health care reform package.

Help us reach 50,000 signatures in support of health care reform that meets the needs of cancer patients and survivors.

Under our current system, cancer patients face many unique challenges that go beyond fighting their disease.

Severe underfunding has created huge gaps in access to federal and state early detection and treatment services. High cost sharing, and annual and lifetime maximums, mean even cancer patients with insurance can face high out-of-pocket costs. Patients who have to cut back on their hours to undergo treatment risk losing their jobs and their insurance. And survivors who wish to obtain private insurance often find it difficult due to their so-called “pre-existing condition.”

That’s why the Susan G. Komen for the Cure® Advocacy Alliance is calling on President Obama and Congress to consider the needs of cancer patients by including these key priorities:

  • Increase the investment in federal and state programs that provide cancer screening, treatment and patient navigation services for underserved populations.
  • Protect cancer patients who have health insurance from excessive out-of-pocket costs that may lead to severe financial hardship and even bankruptcy.
  • Ensure access to affordable, high-quality health insurance for all, including people with “pre-existing” conditions like cancer – so everyone can continue to have health insurance, even if they lose or change jobs.
  • Enhance the quality and value of health care by focusing on prevention, wellness and chronic disease management.
  • Address the chronic shortage of cancer care specialists, particularly in underserved areas.

Help make sure these priorities are part of health care reform. Sign the petition today!

As Congress considers health care reform legislation, our elected officials have a unique opportunity to address the long-standing concerns of people with cancer, which have all too often been overlooked by the U.S. health care system.

There’s no time to waste – Congress is debating the legislation as we speak. Click here to take action now.