Current Masshealth guidelines state that all eligibility is based on income guidelines which is fine normally, HOWEVER Masshealth has a special program in place for cancer patients that are over income BUT only if you have Breast or Cervical Cancer... pretty much you have coverage only if you’re a woman AND only with those cancers. Yes, Men can develop breast cancer but it is rare. However the rest of the cancer types are left to figure out how to pay for insurance since the disease renders a cancer patient without being able to provide for themselves, many going on disability because the disease and the treatments weaken and ravage the body so much, they can’t work anymore, if ever again!

Masshealth guidelines need to change to include ALL cancers; as all cancers create devastating effects on the patient and their families both physically, emotionally and financially!!

Please join with me in asking for change to Masshealth guidelines to either include all cancers and create a catastrophic illness clause where if you are considered over income but have a catastrophic illness that you will receive coverage for the duration of your illness and have the case reviewed when in remission. No patient should have to worry about treatment cost when they should focus on the fight!!!