The Impact of the Affordable Care Act on Cancer Survivorship

Abstract: In 2010, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) was implemented with the aim of expanding access to quality, affordable care. In this review, we describe the ACA provisions that are most relevant for cancer survivors, provide available published evidence, and offer insights for future research. We found that provisions focusing on access to preventive care, access to quality and coordinated care, and coverage expansion and increased affordability suggest beneficial effects. However, we identified research gaps specifically addressing the intended and unintended consequences of the ACA on cancer survivorship care. Whether or not the ACA continues in its current form, research should address the effects of enhanced preventive services, innovative models of care, and payment structures that promote quality of care, as well as access to affordable, equitable care for a growing population of cancer survivors.
Source: The Cancer Journal - Category: Cancer & Oncology Tags: Review Articles Source Type: research