A recent study presented at the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities reveals that the Affordable Care Act (ACA) has significantly improved access to guideline-concordant care for colon cancer among traditionally underserved populations in Pennsylvania.
The research, conducted by Sriya Kudaravalli and colleagues from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, examined data from the Pennsylvania Cancer Registry between 2010 and 2019. They focused on 3,290 patients aged 26-64 diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer, comparing treatment patterns before and after the ACA’s implementation in 2014.
The study found that following the ACA’s introduction, there was a notable increase in guideline-concordant care for non-white patients, those in rural areas, and individuals from the most disadvantaged neighborhoods. Specifically, the receipt of recommended care increased by 7.8% per year for non-white patients, 7.7% for rural residents, and 3.5% for those in the most deprived neighborhoods.
Kudaravalli emphasized the importance of these findings, stating, “Implementation of the ACA is associated with an increase in the quality of colon cancer care for underserved groups.” She added that insurance coverage is crucial for reducing disparities in cancer care and outcomes.
The research highlights the potential of policy changes to address health inequities. Kudaravalli noted that states that have not expanded Medicaid are missing an opportunity to improve access to guideline-concordant cancer treatment.
While the study has limitations, including its focus on a single state, it provides valuable insights into the ACA’s impact on cancer care disparities. The researchers plan to extend their investigation to examine the effects on prostate and lung cancer treatment as well.
See “Affordable Care Act may increase access to colon cancer care for underserved groups” (September 24, 2024)
