Cancer: A Prism for Healthcare

As the head of an organization that furthers the fight against cancer, I was pleased to hear President Obama's recognition of the burden our nation bears as a result of this disease. Cancer was front and center throughout his address last night and that's entirely appropriate. Cancer will soon become the leading cause of death worldwide and provides the lens through which we can view the entire health-care reform effort.

The challenges faced by most Americans in health care are clearly reflected in how cancer patients and survivors are served by our system. In cancer, prevention, screening, early detection and access to continuing care are essential. The same is true for maintaining and preserving Americans' general health. From lifestyle habits to well-known prevention measures to a diagnosis and subsequent treatment, cancer care is a model of the success, excess and major gaps in U.S. health care.

What many of my fellow cancer survivors and I were listening for last night were the following principles:

1. Guaranteed security and continuity: All Americans must be able to rely on the continuation of their coverage, regardless of changes in health, family or profession.

2. Delivery of proven care: Services known to prevent cancer and other diseases and preserve general health must be part of standard coverage.

3. Equality: Americans must not be denied coverage for pre-existing health conditions and should have choices appropriate to their own health needs.

4. Medical excellence: Reform must include a continuing effort to promote best medical practices, put the patient first and deliver modern, innovative care.

Many of us felt encouraged last night that the White House recognizes the importance of these fundamentals. Time will tell whether Congress can rise above partisan politics to reach consensus on them and get reform across the finish line.

By Doug Ulman  |  September 10, 2009; 9:35 AM ET  | Category:  Health Care Reform , Health costs , Insurance , Medicare , Presidential leadership
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