In 2018, the federal government changed the rules for short-term limited-duration (STLD) health plans, allowing them to last up to 12 months and extendable for a total of 36 months. Some states chose to enforce stricter regulations on these plans, while others did not.
A recent study by the American Cancer Society (ACS) highlights a troubling trend: states with fewer regulations on STLD plans saw delays in cancer treatment for patients with breast, colorectal cancer, and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The research appears in the journal Cancer and was led by Dr. Jingxuan Zhao.
Dr. Zhao explained, “STLD plans often don’t cover essential services like cancer screenings and medications, which the Affordable Care Act requires.” Many people opt for these lower-cost plans without knowing they lack comprehensive coverage.
Study Insights
The study looked at adults aged 18 to 64 who were newly diagnosed with specific types of cancer between 2017 and 2019. Researchers grouped patients based on their state’s STLD regulations. They found that patients in states with the least restrictions faced significant delays in starting treatment.
In fact, around 8,000 patients diagnosed each year in less regulated states might experience delays. This number could grow if we consider other cancers and recurrences.
In response to these findings, Dr. Zhao mentioned that a new federal rule in 2024 will limit STLD plans to 3 months again, but future government policies may change that. “We need to keep an eye on how these plans affect access to cancer care,” he advised.
The Bigger Picture
Having good health insurance is crucial for surviving cancer. Inadequate coverage, like that found in STLD plans, can be particularly harmful. Lisa Lacasse, President of the ACS Cancer Action Network, emphasized the importance of comprehensive insurance, saying, “We’re pushing for policies that help people avoid these inadequate plans.”
What’s clear is that tighter regulations on STLD plans might improve treatment access and outcomes for cancer patients. As healthcare policies evolve, the need for vigilant oversight will remain critical for protecting vulnerable patients.
For further reading and detailed study findings, visit the Cancer journal here.
