Sandra M. Swain, MD, FACP, ASCO President, issued the following statement on April 27, 2013:
“Today, out of concern for public safety, Congress provided the Federal Aviation Administration enhanced flexibility in application of sequestration related cuts, including reversal of furlough requirements imposed on air traffic controllers. Individuals with cancer deserve no less.
“ASCO, along with others in the oncology community, has called upon the Secretary of Health and Human Services to apply sequestration cuts in a way that protects access to cancer care for America’s elderly. More than 120 Members of Congress have signed a letter asking the Secretary to exercise any authority she has to reverse the cuts and to make it a high priority.
“Secretary Sebelius has indicated she does not have authority to apply reductions selectively, and that cuts must apply across the board.
“We urge Congress to take action now and pass H.R. 1416, bipartisan legislation which would preserve access to care by exempting cancer drugs from sequester.” ■
