FINAL BILL REPORT

2SHB 1058

C 4 L 01

Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description:  Providing assistance to treat breast and cervical cancer.

Sponsors:  By House Committee on Appropriations (originally sponsored by Representatives Ruderman, Campbell, Cody, Skinner, Linville, Barlean, Lovick, Doumit, Ballasiotes, Lambert, Cox, Gombosky, Schual‑Berke, Darneille, Van Luven, Ogden, Conway, Keiser, O'Brien, Edmonds, Anderson, Edwards, McDermott, Haigh, Kenney, Kirby, Kagi, Hunt, Esser, McIntire and Jackley).

House Committee on Health Care

House Committee on Appropriations

Senate Committee on Ways & Means

Background:

The national Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program was established by the federal government in 1990.  The Department of Health and tribal entities operate the program in Washington.  The program seeks to increase the early detection of breast and cervical cancer.  Women with incomes below 250 percent of the federal poverty level are provided access to breast and cervical cancer screening and assistance in obtaining treatment.  The program does not pay for treatment if a woman is identified with breast or cervical cancer.

In October 2000 the Breast and Cervical Cancer Prevention and Treatment Act of 2000 (Public Law 106-354) was signed into law.  The act amends the Medicaid statute to allow states to provide medical assistance to women screened through the Department of Health or a tribal program and found to need breast or cervical cancer treatment.

If a state elects to exercise this option under the Medicaid statute, the federal government will provide an enhanced fund match to pay for treatment.  The enhanced federal match will cover approximately 65 percent of the cost, compared to the usual 50 percent match provided for other Medicaid services.  Federal funds are available retroactively for items and services provided on or after October 1, 2000.

Summary:

Eligibility for medical assistance is modified to include women who are under the age of 65 and who have been screened through the Department of Health or a tribal breast and cervical cancer program, need treatment for cancer, and have no health insurance.  Treatment is limited to the time required to treat the breast or cervical cancer.

Votes on Final Passage:

First Special Session

House920

Senate420

Effective:  July 1, 2001