"An Act relating to an optional group of persons eligible for medical assistance who require treatment for breast and cervical cancer; relating to cost sharing by those recipients under the medical assistance program; and providing for an effective date."

Senate Bill 78 allows the State of Alaska to continue to take advantage of an enhanced federal matching rate, for the specific Medicaid eligibility category of Breast and Cervical Cancer. It does this by removing the sunset provision on the 2001 legislation. Thus, it ensures continued treatment for women who have been participating in this program and for women who will be diagnosed with these potentially fatal cancers in the future.

In addition to the current cost sharing already in place, this bill gives authority to the Department of Health and Social Services to impose maximum cost sharing allowed under federal authority for the breast and cervical cancer category. It then allows the State to work with the Federal government to submit a state plan amendment in which premiums or contributions are paid on a sliding scale basis, based on household income. It also provides for the implementation of a system by which these funds are collected.

I urge your support and swift passage of Senate Bill 78.

Last Updated: 02/26/2003

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