An Act to reduce incidence and death from pancreatic cancer

HD 245 creates a state-wide pancreatic cancer initiative administered by the Department of Public Health. It establishes a 13-member pancreatic cancer advisory council (including patient advocates and representatives from cancer networks) to develop hospital certification standards, identify underserved areas for improved care access, create a multi-provider consortium for best practices, and develop a standard tissue consent form for research. The bill also mandates a comprehensive study on pancreatic cancer prevalence and patient needs, plus a public education program about genetic risks and symptoms. Additionally, it requires the insurance commissioner to survey genetic testing coverage and the health center to update pancreatic cancer screening benefit reviews by 2026. This bill directly affects pancreatic cancer patients, healthcare providers, and the state's public health infrastructure.