OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — A new bill proposed by State Representative Daniel Pae (R-Lawton) would void costs of medical screenings for Oklahoma firefighters.
House Bill 3573, named "Fighting Chance for Firefighters Act," covers yearly screenings for lung, prostate, testicular, skin, colon and breast cancers. The bill not only covers all permanent firefighters but umbrellas over volunteer firefighters as well.
"The Fighting Chance for Firefighters Act, devoid of deductibles and co-payments, is a testament to our commitment to safeguarding those who risk their lives and health tirelessly protecting our communities," Pae said. "By confronting cancer head-on and encouraging early detection, we can give all of Oklahoma's firefighters their best chance for a healthy and resilient future."
Under the bill, firefighters would not pay annual deductibles, co-payments or coinsurance limits for the testings outlined in the draft.
"It's the sad reality of the profession and speaks to the volume of the character and integrity of these men and women, for them to risk their lives in this manner to protect our communities," Rep. Pae told 2 News Oklahoma. "I believe that this is the least we can do."
Due to the carcinogenic exposures presented during fires, firefighters are more likely to develop cancer, according to the World Health Organization.
"Almost two thirds of the firefighters that pass away each year are related to occupational cancer," said Matt Lay, President of Tulsa Firefighters Local 176. "Year after year, we see the increased toxicity in smoke, carcinogens. Everything we're exposed to in the course of our duties continues to take a toll long after even we've left the fire service as a career."
The American Cancer Society said patients are 10 times more likely to survive a cancer diagnoses if the cancer is detected early.
This bill comes on the heels of the passing of Tulsa Firefighter Harrison Moseby on Jan. 22. Harrison fought hard against a rare sarcoma which is cancer that develops in the bones and soft tissues.
His battle was a good reminder that cancer disproportionately affects firefighters more than other careers.
According to the Oklahoma House of Representatives the bill will be available for consideration Feb. 5.
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