Sunflower State News

On Monday, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall (R-Kansas) and Senator Jack Reed (D-Rhode Island) introduced the Mobile Cancer Screening Act in Congress. The proposed legislation aims to create a federal grant program that would allow hospitals and healthcare centers to expand cancer detection services in rural and underserved communities. Through this initiative, providers could purchase mobile screening units to reach patients who face challenges accessing traditional clinics due to transportation issues or long travel distances.

Senator Marshall emphasized the importance of equal access to preventative care, stating, "The geography of where a patient is shouldn’t determine whether they can get screened for deadly cancers, nor should it harm their life expectancy or health outcomes. Those living in rural communities – like so many folks in Kansas – deserve the same access to life-saving preventative care as any other American. I am proud to introduce this life-saving, bipartisan legislation, and I look forward to seeing it become law."

Senator Reed highlighted the benefits of early detection through increased accessibility: "The Mobile Cancer Screening Act would make cancer screenings more convenient and accessible. Detecting cancer early offers patients a much better chance of treating and beating it. Increasing the number of mobile screening units across the country will help put these units in more communities and help save lives," he said. "Cancer screenings don’t have to be invasive, but when it comes to cancer detection, it pays to be proactive. These units will help people get properly diagnosed, treated, and give them the best shot to beat cancer."

In addition to Senate sponsorship, Representatives Gabe Evans (R-Colorado-8) and Raul Ruiz (D-California-25) introduced an identical bill in the House of Representatives.

Congressman Evans commented on barriers faced by rural residents: "Far too many Coloradans and Americans in rural areas face barriers to cancer screening services simply because of where they live. I understand just how critical it is to bring lifesaving health care directly to the communities that need it most," he said. "I am proud to help lead the fight to expand access to mobile cancer screening units and ensure every family has a fair shot at timely, quality care. I am committed to working across the aisle with my colleagues in Congress to ensure expanded access and lower costs for those who need care most."

Congressman Dr. Ruiz addressed lung cancer statistics: "Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the United States, and too many patients are diagnosed too late simply because they lack access to screenings," he stated. "This bill will help bring early detection directly to people where they live—especially in rural, low-income, and underserved areas. With the Supreme Court’s recent decision on preventive care coverage, we have a critical opportunity to save lives by making screenings more accessible through mobile units."

The Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) also expressed support for the legislation.

Dr. Joseph Sabik, President of STS said: "Far too many Americans lack access to early detection tools that save lives," adding that "This bill is a step forward toward bringing advanced screening technology directly to communities in need."

A full text version of the bill is available online.