Tallahassee Sun

Congressman Neal Dunn of Florida has introduced the "Prostate-Specific Antigen Screening for High-Risk Insured Men Act," also known as the "PSA Screening for HIM Act." This bill aims to mandate private health insurance plans to cover preventative prostate cancer screenings for men with a family history of the disease. Presently, these individuals often face cost-sharing requirements that pose obstacles to accessing necessary screenings.

"As a urologist who has dedicated much of his professional life to men’s health, I know that preventative screenings for prostate cancer and early detection are vital to ensuring successful patient outcomes and can be lifesaving," said Congressman Dunn. He emphasized the importance of removing financial barriers for those seeking proactive health measures.

Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr., highlighted the impact of prostate cancer on Black families, noting its status as the second leading cause of cancer deaths among men in the United States. "To address the disparities in prostate cancer outcomes, we must ensure at-risk populations have access to prevention, early detection, and treatment options," he stated.

Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D., expressed support for eliminating cost-related barriers to lifesaving screenings. "The PSA Screening for HIM Act will remove a significant barrier that prevents far too many from accessing early detection," he remarked.

Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke shared her personal connection to the issue through her father's experience with prostate cancer. She noted that while progress continues towards eradicating this disease, it remains crucial to eliminate screening barriers: "The PSA Screening for HIM Act would remove cost-sharing roadblocks of PSA Testing for those at highest risk."

ZERO Prostate Cancer CEO Courtney Bugler praised Reps. Dunn and Clarke's commitment: “We are grateful...for their introduction of the PSA Screening for HIM Act." Dr. Wayne A.I. Frederick from the American Cancer Society also supported removing financial obstacles: “Out-of-pocket costs can be a major obstacle to accessing screening.”

According to statistics from the American Cancer Society, one in eight men will receive a prostate cancer diagnosis during their lifetime. The bill is co-sponsored by Congressmen Troy Carter and Greg Murphy and Congresswoman Yvette Clark.