Breast cancer is a serious health concern that affects thousands of women every year. It is especially challenging for women who are veterans and have been deployed overseas. These women have a higher risk of breast cancer due to exposure to chemicals and radiation during deployment. Additionally, they may face barriers to access to care due to their service status. This is where The Survivors’ Access to Supportive Care Act (SERVICE Act) comes in. In this blog post, we will discuss what the SERVICE Act is and how it can provide breast cancer care for deployed veterans.
The SERVICE Act is a bi-partisan bill that was introduced to Congress in 2019. Its primary goal is to provide comprehensive breast cancer services to women veterans who were deployed to combat zones. The bill covers a range of services, including breast cancer screening, diagnostic testing, and treatment, as well as support and counseling services. The bill also provides resources and support for caregivers, who often play an essential role in the care of veterans with breast cancer.
The SERVICE Act is essential for deployed veterans with breast cancer because it addresses the unique challenges they face in accessing care. For example, women who served overseas may have difficulty accessing VA hospitals or clinics due to travel distance or work obligations. The bill aims to provide more flexible options for care, such as telemedicine appointments, to ensure that these veterans receive the care they need.
The bill also recognizes the increased risk of breast cancer for deployed veterans and the need for early detection and prevention. The SERVICE Act would require the Department of Defense to develop breast cancer screening guidelines and best practices for deployed service members. It would also coordinate with the VA to ensure that veterans receive adequate follow-up care after returning from deployment.
The SERVICE Act has received broad support from veterans’ organizations, healthcare professionals, and members of Congress. It is a critical step in addressing the unique needs of women veterans with breast cancer. However, the bill has not yet been passed into law, and there is still work to be done to ensure that it becomes a reality.
Breast cancer is a significant health concern for women veterans, particularly those who were deployed overseas. The SERVICE Act provides a comprehensive approach to breast cancer care, including screening, diagnosis, treatment, and support services for deployed veterans. The bill recognizes the unique challenges that these veterans face in accessing care and aims to provide more flexible options to ensure that they receive the care they need. While the SERVICE Act has yet to become law, it is a critical step in addressing the health needs of women veterans and improving access to care for those with breast cancer.