Relates to requiring Medicaid to cover a wearable medical device to treat certain forms of cancer

◆ The sponsor's argument

Why Patricia Fahy says this is needed

TTfields is an FDA-approved and National Comprehensive Cancer Network- preferred, wearable treatment option for one of the most aggressive forms of brain cancer - glioblastoma (GBM). It also is showing as an effective treatment for other forms of cancer. Although GBM is a rare form of cancer, it requires swift and thorough treatment and patients deserve access to all approved treatments that may extend their lives. TTFields was the first therapy in over a decade that demonstrated an increase in overall survival in newly-diagnosed GBM. The innovative technology utilizes alternating electric fields to disrupt the rapid cell division exhibited by cancer cells while bypassing healthy cells. Despite ample clinical evidence in support of the technology's overall effectiveness and safety, New York State Medicaid continues to deny coverage under Fee-for-Service (FFS) for New Yorkers enrolled in Medi- caid who need access to this life extending treatment. On average, there are 5-10 patients in New York with FFS Medicaid each year who are seek- ing such coverage. Income status should not dictate who can access and benefit from a life-extending treatment. Those with commercial insur- ance, Medicare, or VA benefits can all receive coverage to access the device. Also, Medicaid-managed care plans in New York have been covering this treatment at patients' request. However, individuals with Medicaid FFS, many of whom already face many challenges to receiving effective and equitable healthcare, are currently being excluded. This legislation is supported by leading cancer care providers, cancer centers, and physicians and patient advocates supporting individuals with brain tumors. It must be enacted to address the serious inequity in Medicaid FFS coverage of TTFields for the treatment of GBM in New York State.

This is the sponsor's own case for the bill, quoted from their memorandum. It is not Agora's description of what the bill does.