ALBUQUERQUE — The New Mexico Chapter of the American Cancer Society (ACS) announced it received a $70,000 major grant from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico (BCBSNM). The grant will support transportation, lodging, and cancer screening initiatives. These programs help cancer patients when they need it most by providing transportation to and from cancer-related appointments and lodging assistance when traveling for treatment is the only option, including support of local lodging programs like Casa Esperanza.
“We are so grateful to Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico,” said Rachel Davis, strategic partnership manager for the American Cancer Society. “With these funds we will be able to help patients get to and from their cancer-related appointments, assist them with any lodging needs they may have and increase cancer screening rates throughout the state of New Mexico.”
The grant will also address the decline in cancer screenings caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Delays in cancer screening can led to cancers being left undiagnosed, which can lead to harder to treat cancers. The program focuses on engaging patients with the recommended screening exams per ACS guidelines and promoting the importance of getting screened.
“Helping cancer patients through their journey is an important step towards recovery,” said Janice Torrez, BCBSNM president. “Supporting programs through ACS that improve access to cancer treatment and screenings can help make our communities healthier.”
The American Cancer Society’s commitment to improve the lives of people with cancer and their families through advocacy, research, and patient support, to ensure everyone has an opportunity to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer, aligns with the vision of BCBSNM to improve the health of families and communities across New Mexico.
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About Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico is the largest commercial health insurer in New Mexico with 700,000 New Mexicans carrying a Blue Cross and Blue Shield card. Since 1940, BCBSNM has been committed to promoting the health and wellness of its members and communities through accessible, cost-effective, quality health care. BCBSNM is a Division of Health Care Service Corporation, the country’s largest customer-owned health insurer and fourth largest health insurer overall. Health Care Service Corporation is a Mutual Legal Reserve Company and an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.