Catalyst in Rhode Island

2021-2022 Catalyst Grantee

In April 2021, Rhode Island governor Dan McKee signed into law the “Maryellen Goodwin Colorectal Cancer Screening Act.” This legislation will help increase access to colorectal cancer screening by removing out-of-pocket costs for patients needing a colonoscopy following an abnormal noninvasive screening test. Maryellen Goodwin is a long-time member of the Rhode Island State Legislature and champion for access to healthcare. She passed away from colorectal cancer in April 2023.  

Colorectal Cancer Screening in Rhode Island

*Overall Percentage of Adults Who Are Up to Date with Colorectal Cancer Screening

Rhode Island Grantees

American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) of Rhode Island helps to encourage both our federal and state lawmakers to make cancer a priority and support policies that will prevent cancer and benefit cancer patients and survivors.  

Rhode Island Colorectal Cancer Screening Coverage

Rhode Island state law requires every insurance policy issued in the state to provide coverage for colorectal cancer screening for any asymptomatic person 45 years of age or older. This includes all colorectal cancer examinations and laboratory tests for average risk individuals in accordance with American Cancer Society guidelines, including an initial colonoscopy or other non-invasive screening test and a follow-up colonoscopy if a patient receives an abnormal result on a non-invasive screening test. 

Rhode Island is the 44th deadliest state for colorectal cancer in the U.S.

Relentless Champions in Rhode Island

Cori Chandler, MPA Candidate

Rhode Island Government Relations Director, ACS CAN

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