Ohio lawmakers push lower prices for chemo pills

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — The Ohio House has passed legislation that would keep insurance companies from charging significantly more for chemotherapy pills than for traditional intravenous treatments.

The bill passed in the House Tuesday had been sought for years. Gov. John Kasich (KAY'-sik) is expected to sign it.

Supporters say the measure will provide patients with more treatment options by ensuring that health plan coverage for orally administered cancer medication is in line with the coverage for injected medication.

They say pills can cause fewer side effects, target cancer cells more effectively, and give patients more freedom.

Insurance and business interests blocked passage of the legislation for years. They argued it would increase costs.

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