Fischer Joins Legislation to Aid Breast Cancer Patients

Press Release

U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) joined her colleagues this afternoon to introduce new legislation that will help educate breast cancer patients and provide important information regarding treatments. The bill, known as The Breast Cancer Patient Education Act of 2015, was introduced by Senators Roy Blunt (R-Mo.) and Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) this afternoon. Senator Fischer released the following statement:

"Breast cancer is a vicious disease that affects every American family. From mothers and daughters to aunts and sisters, we are all touched by this sudden and unyielding disease. That's why I'm proud to join my colleagues as an original cosponsor of the Breast Cancer Patient Education Act of 2015. This bipartisan proposal will help educate breast cancer patients while improving access to information, treatments, and reconstruction options.

"As we race to find a cure, it's important that we also take the time to help patients learn what services are available. With this bill, we are taking action and uniting to bring a better future for women across Nebraska and throughout our nation."

This afternoon, a bipartisan group of senators introduced The Breast Cancer Patient Education Act of 2015. The bill seeks to inform and empower women to make health care decisions that best meet their personal needs.

The Breast Cancer Patient Education Act will require the Secretary of the Departments of Health and Human Services to plan and implement an education campaign to inform breast cancer patients of the availability and coverage of breast reconstruction, as well as other treatment options. Federal law mandates coverage of breast reconstruction, even if such reconstruction is delayed after other treatments. The educational materials required by this bill would inform patients of this fact.

The bill is not expected to have a cost. The Secretary can use current authority for educational activities and materials.

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