An Urgent Call to Action
Posted on October 30, 2008 by the CyberKnife Coalition
Patient Access to the CyberKnife is Threatened! Let Your Voice Be Heard!!
Recently, the Medicare contractor in California, Nevada, and Hawaii implemented a policy that has restricted access to treatment with the CyberKnife for patients suffering from cancers of the prostate, pancreas, spine, bone and other cancers such as uterus and ovaries. In an effort to encourage Medicare to restore coverage of the CyberKnife we are seeking the help of cancer patients and their families residing in these states and urging them to strongly vocalize their objection to this policy.
While many medical providers in these states have already voiced their concerns to Medicare, that will not be enough! We urge you to strongly vocalize your objection to this restrictive policy today. Make your voices are heard!
Medicare's contractor, Palmetto Government Benefits Administrators, will be accepting comments on this policy from the public through an open comment period beginning on October 30th. Palmetto will also be hosting an open public meeting in Los Angeles, on November 18th where all stakeholders will be given an opportunity to speak out in opposition to removal of coverage for cancer patients. During this meeting, the CyberKnife Coalition would like to carry with them as many patient voices as possible.
In order for your voice to be heard, the CyberKnife Coalition urges you to visit Medicare Patient Advocacy Plan - CA, HI, NV and register your concerns.
The CyberKnife Coalition Deadline to submit comments: FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2008
Comments may also be submitted directly to Palmetto between October 30, 2008 and December 15, 2008. The policy (Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy) and address for comments can be accessed at: Palmetto GBA
Please notify anyone you feel would be appropriate to comment on this important matter. Thank you for your support in helping ensure access to this valuable technology.
Please visit the CyberKnife Coalition website for more information.