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National Association for Proton Therapy National Association for Proton Therapy
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Jan 10

Enhancing Access to Proton Therapy: Illinois’ Landmark Legislation Takes Effect in 2024

  • January 10, 2024

GUEST CONTRIBUTOR:
Mark Pankuch, PhD, DABR, FAAPM
Director of Medical Physics
Northwestern Medicine – Central DuPage Hospital

On January 1, 2024, Illinois saw the enactment of Public Act 103-0325, a significant step forward in making proton therapy accessible to patients covered by state-sponsored insurance plans. This legislation, the result of a bipartisan effort, was introduced in the Illinois House of Representatives by Republican Norine K. Hammond and subsequently championed in the Senate by Democrat David Koehler. The bill’s unanimous passage is a testament to the widespread recognition of proton therapy’s value within the state.

Legislative success often hinges on a clear understanding of the proposed changes. Representative Hammond’s strategic planning and transparency were crucial to the bill’s passage. Her advocacy began when a constituent faced insurance denial for proton therapy, despite medical recommendation. To respond effectively, Representative Hammond engaged with the Northwestern Medicine Proton Center to gain a deeper insight into proton therapy.

Through her immersive experience at the center, she gained a nuanced understanding of proton therapy’s distinct advantages over conventional X-ray (photon) radiation, particularly its ability to minimize damage to healthy tissues. She observed firsthand the sophisticated technology and substantial investment that proton therapy entails, as well as the meticulous decision-making process of the healthcare team in recommending this treatment.

Armed with this knowledge, Representative Hammond returned to Springfield, drafting a bill informed by insights from the Northwestern Medicine Proton Center and modeled after analogous legislation from other states. Her bipartisan outreach, coupled with Northwestern Medicine’s educational initiatives, played a pivotal role in fostering a comprehensive understanding of proton therapy’s clinical applications.

The Illinois Act stipulates two clear mandates:

  1. Insurance coverage for cancer treatment must not impose stricter clinical evidence standards for proton beam therapy than for other radiation therapies.
  2. Radiation oncology coverage by insurers must include medically necessary proton beam therapy for cancer treatment.

While succinct, these provisions are crafted to safeguard patients, ensuring they receive the best possible care as recommended by their healthcare providers. The unanimous bipartisan support for this law serves as an inspiring precedent, encouraging continued advocacy for broader access to proton therapy at both federal and state levels.

EXPERTISE UNVEILED: A GUEST CONTRIBUTOR SERIES

We bring together the brightest minds and most experienced professionals in the field of proton therapy. In this distinguished guest contributor series, experts share invaluable insights, breakthrough research, and real-world experiences in advancing proton therapy. Join us as we delve into the world of proton therapy, exploring its intricacies and potential through the eyes of those who know it best. Interested in becoming a contributor? Email info@proton-therapy.org for more information.

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The National Association for Proton Therapy (NAPT) and its members support cancer research and treatment innovation and are committed to raising awareness about the value of proton therapy among policymakers, insurers, caregivers and patients to ensure that this advanced treatment modality is affordable and available in communities across the country.

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LATEST NAPT NEWS

  • Benny’s Story: A Brain Tumor Awareness Month Spotlight
  • 2025 National Proton Conference Highlights Major Advances in Research, Patient Access, and Clinical Innovation
  • Coach Goes Head-to-Head with Cancer
  • Mark Kahrs: Moving Forward After Head and Neck Cancer
  • Advancing Cancer Care: Landmark Study Underscores Proton Therapy’s Impact in Head and Neck Cancer

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