Dear Sir:
I am writing to introduce you to MTPPI a 501(c)3
non-profit institute established in 1986. Among
other treatments, we are interested in studying
the causal relationship between the therapeutic
intervention epoetin in t   More...

PROTON THERAPY....There is very limited use in
cancer therapy for this expensive technology. The
reults in treating prostate cancer are no better
than using IMRT or prostate brachytherapy which
cost a fraction of PROTON therapy. Al   More...

I am very concerned about the current rapid
proliferation of proton beam radiation without
sufficient evidence supporting its clinical
superiority over current modalities. I have
heard that MD Anderson Cancer Center is refusing More...

CORRECTED: Proton therapy for prostate cancer
should not be a covered service, as superior
radiation treatment alternatives already exist,
are proven, and can be delivered at a fraction of
the cost. Proton therapy is not new: Facil   More...

I would like to comment on the reimbursement of
proton therapy for prostate cancer. I was
optimistic at first, as a young academic
radiation oncologist, that the future of prostate
cancer treatment would include proton therapy More...

As I witness the profound impact that our current
economic struggles are having on our communities
and my patients, the seemingly profligate
spending going on in the health care community
befuddles me. A recent summary of major bui   More...

There can be no reasonable, non political way to
justify the continued non coverage of this
proceedure in the sub-population of asymptomatic
patients at high risk for carotid
endarterectomy. The body of literature
supporting th   More...

Proton Therapy for Prostate Cancer.

I''m a radiation oncologist. Protons offer a
significant benefit in several oncologic
situations. Prostate cancer is not one of those
situations.

Unfortunately, however, I do believ   More...

Proton Therapy for Prostate Cancer:

Proton therapy should not be used in the
treatment of prostate cancer. Proton treatments
are much more expensive than other radiation
techniques. There is no proven benefit in tumor
contr   More...

[PHI Redacted] One difference between proton treatment and others is that you
leave feeling human and normal. That''s worth everything.

Proton Beam Radiation Treatment for Cancer - Medicare Coverage:

As a health care professional, scientist [PHI Redacted] I feel strongly that Medicare should cover this state-of-the-art treatment. [PHI Redact   More...

it works great and you can have all of your plumming afterwards ,,,, [PHI Redacted],,, It works dont be fooled .... and their no pain doing it ....

Before proton therapy is denied as a viable
treatment for prostate cancer, there are many not
doing enough research!!! Please make sure you do
an extensive study re: the after-effects of the
various treatment options before dismis   More...

[PHI Redacted]

[PHI Redacted] no side effects and no surgery; it would be a crime not to continue to have this covered under medicare. [PHI Redacted] Why make men suffer   More...

[PHI Redacted] a successful proton radiation receipient that was treated for prostate cancer several years ago. [PHI Redacted]

The overwhelming majority of that evidence was that other treatment methods    More...

[PHI Redacted] was treated by the Proton method (@ Loma Linda
CA) in 1996 and doing very well during these intervening years and can certaiinly vouch for this method of trestment.
Homer Lamborn

I am sending this e-mail to express my concern for removing medicare payments for Proton Therapy.

[PHI Redacted]

I believe the benefit of Proton Therapy was the reduction in side effects.

I am amused by the intellectual bias of the many posts that attack the positive outcomes of Proton Therapy. Until these doctors face the reality of Prostate Cancer in their own lives, their data will prove whatever they want it to prove.
More...

I have heard of a proposal to stop Medicare coverage of Proton Therapy for Prostate Cancer. I am not a doctor [PHI Redacted]. My story is very important because my doctors (three) told me that due to my other illness [PHI    More...

I believe that it is incredably important to retain the Medicare coverage for Proton
Radiation. Without it, the single best choice for many men diagnosed with prostate cancer will become unavailable.

[PHI Redacted]More...

I have been in contact with numerous patients who
have been treated with proton beam radiation
therapy for prostate cancer. The evidence is
overwhelming that this form of treatment provides
the best outcome for the patient with re   More...

RE: Proton Therapy

I am dismayed, though not surprized, at all the
postings claiming no advantage for Proton Therapy
from practitioners of competing modalities.
Apparently the profit motive is more important
than the scien   More...

The accuracy and depth-control of proton therapy made it possible to treat enlarged prostate without the expense and adverse side effects of lutenizing hormone ablation drugs. [PHI Redacted] in relatively good health, the qua   More...

[PHI Redacted] I have many friends that chose other treatment methods and are suffering a wide range of terrible side effects! [PHI Redacted] suffer none of these and strongly feel it is well worth, in the long    More...

The negative comments about proton therapy as it applies to
prostate cancer, made by several physicians, amount to hearsay and
are largely misleading in many of the details. The comments smack
of panic rather than sober logical statem   More...

[PHI Redacted] I am urging that reimbursement for treatment for prostate cancer via proton beam therapy remain intact. After doing some investigating, it seems that the majority of those that reimbursement be discontinued are thos   More...

[PHI Redacted] I fully endorse the proton beam therapy approach and support its further coverage under medicare.

I have had friends, relatives, and acquaintances who have had the radical prostate surgery, the Brachy therapy,    More...

I want to take this opportunity to comment on the Proton beam therapy for prostate cancer proposed rule change.

[PHI Redacted]

It is my understanding that the reason medicare is considering stopping the rei   More...

I would like to comment on the reimbursement of proton therapy for prostate cancer. [PHI Redacted] was treated with Proton Beam therapy which was completed 2 years ago. [PHI Redacted] made [PHI Redacted   More...

Proton Treatment, Prostate Cancer

[PHI Redacted] received treatment in 1993, had a PSA of 6 that had rapidly escalated to 9. [PHI Redacted] received a PSA readout of 3 just recently. [PHI Redac   More...

[PHI Redacted] a prostate cancer patient who was treated with proton beam therapy ending on [PHI Redacted]. Since then [PHI Redacted] PSA has dropped gradually and is now at 0.98. [PHI R   More...

In Feb. and March of this year [PHI Redacted] received 45 proton beam treatments with the only side efffects being mild increase in frequency and urgency in urinating which ceased after treatment was completed. The total cost    More...

Proton Beam Therapy for Prostate Cancer

[PHI Redacted] was treated with protons in 2001 at the age of 66. [PHI Redacted] had subsequent PSA tests every year since [PHI Redacted] treatmen   More...

Proton Therapy for Prostate Cancer:

[PHI Redacted] a proton beam radiation treated prostate cancer survivor. The Proton Beam treatment for prostate cancer is safer and as effective as other external beam radiation met   More...

Re: Proton Treatment for Prostate Cancer. [PHI Redacted] 65 year old man who was treated earlier this year for prostate cancer with proton therapy. [PHI Redacted] selected this form of treatment after six mont   More...

I read with concern the proposal by CMS to exclude proton therapy for prostate cancer from Medicare reimbursement. In 2004, [PHI Redacted]was diagnosed with prostate cancer at the time of [PHI Redacted] 68th bir   More...

[PHI Redacted] completed proton beam therapy for [PHI Redacted] prostate cancer on 8/4/08 and intuitively feel this was the best decision[PHI Redacted]. It would not be possible if Medicare did   More...

[PHI Redacted]68 years old and consider [PHI Redacted] lucky to have choosen proton therapy over the other choices as it is non evasive and all the men [PHI Redacted] had spoken to prior to More...

I have a 39 year medical background: Orthopedic Surgeon graduating from Medical School at The University of Texas in 1969; also I was a U.S. Air Force Flight Surgeon 1970-1972.

[PHI Redacted]diagnosed with prostate canc   More...

Please do not discontinue Medicare reimbursement for proton radiation therapy for treatment of prostate cancer! [PHI Redacted] spent months researching the various options available [PHI Redacted] for PC treatm   More...

[PHI Redacted] was diagnosed with prostate cancer 5 years ago. After much research into the various paths of treatment, he opted to have proton beam radiation. Today his PSA is 0.5 holding steady, and he has had no problems from t   More...

[PHI Redacted] elected to have [PHI Redacted] prostate cancer treated by protron radiation in October of 2003 after researching all [PHI Redacted] options, including direct conversations with i   More...

Proton Therapy,

Medicare and Medicad should continue to offer Proton Therapy as a treatment for Prostate Cancer.

Last summer, [PHI Redacted] completed proton therapy for prostate cancer and could not be happ   More...

Regarding Medicare Coverage of Proton Beam Radiation:

[PHI Redacted] opted for Proton Beam Radiation treatment for stage 2C prostate cancer in early 2002; because [PHI Redacted] could see from the pub   More...

[PHI Redacted] a recipient of very successful proton beam treatment for prostate cancer. [PHI Redacted] choices because of health and age were very limited and [PHI Redacted] research into a ve   More...

I want to lend my support for the continued Medicare support for proton beam therapy for prostate cancer. [PHI Redacted] I can attest to the fact that the side effects are minimal to none. The effectiveness of the treatment, in   More...

[PHI Redacted] a former Prostate Cancer patient. [PHI Redacted] PSA was 9.8 in May of [PHI Redacted]. The doctor said because of [PHI Redacted] Leukemia (CML), raditation was More...

I believe Medicare''s proposal to stop paying for
proton beam therapy as a treatment for prostate
cancer is a serious mistake. The proposal is
based on a mistaken belief that it is too costly
and is not better than alternative treatme   More...

This comment relates to the use of Proton Beam treatment for Prostate Cancer. [PHI Redacted] was diagnosed with prostate cancer 6 years ago. After extensive research and interviews of many others diagnosed and various treatmen   More...

As a 69 year old, healthy, active man, [PHI Redacted] was diagnosed with prostate cancer in [PHI Redacted]. [PHI Redacted] due diligence on all available treatments including proton beam tehrapy   More...

[PHI Redacted] was successfully treated for prostate cancer with protons at Loma Linda Hospital four years ago. That hospital has ten years of scientifically accurate research attesting to it''s extraordinary ability to succes   More...

Funding of Proton Therapy to treat Prostate Cancer; It would be a huge mistake to withdraw Medicare Funding for Proton Therapy for Prostate Cancer (PCa). [PHI Redacted] This is a wonderful, and highly effective treatment    More...

I just read the postings to this forum on Medicare coverage of treatment of Prostate Cancer by Proton Bream Therapy. So far all were written by physicians who offer treatment other than Proton Beam. [PHI Redacted] was successf   More...

I wish to speak in behalf of continuing Medicare coverage for proton therapy. [PHI Redacted] was diagnosed with prostate cancer in [PHI Redacted]. [PHI Redacted] received 40 proton treatments w   More...

It is interesting to note that the major opposition to proton radiation treatment for prostate cancer patients comes from physicians (primarily urologists) whose practices are threatened by this more advanced technology and one not available    More...

[PHI Redacted] I wish to say that the proton therapy treatment is the best for prostate cancer. I believe it''s success rate is as good or better than any other modality, and it has negligable, if any, side effects. It is non i   More...

[PHI Redacted] very satisfied recipient of proton radiation therapy in 2004. The absolute absence of any side effects and the diminished need for follow-up medical treatment makes this method of treating prostate cancer a very   More...

Proton Radiation for Prostate Cancer

While you are in the decision making process I implore you to seek out data on the relative rates of side effects such as impotence and incontinence.

If,   More...

[PHI Redacted] I can say with confidence, that proton treatment of prostate cancer was effective [PHI Redacted] since 2001-other than skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common of cancers. In my view, un   More...

Proton Prostate Treatment

[PHI Redacted]was diagnosed with prostate cancer, and completed the 45 session proton treatment regimen. [PHI Redacted] experienced no pain, incontinence, impotence, bleeding,    More...

[PHI Redacted] received proton radiation therapy for prostate cancer last year. I have been in the engineering medical field for 35 years and did very extensive research on the methods and outcomes of variuos prostate cancer t   More...

Proton beam therapy for prostate cancer:
I have studied the subject matter thoroughly. As a
scientist, I have access to the primary medical
literature, and I have carefully scrutinized over
100 publications on the subject. I have also    More...

[PHI Redacted] recieved Proton radiation for prostate cancer from [PHI Redacted]. The results are nothing short of fantastic. [PHI Redacted] experienced no side effects while recieving treatmen   More...

I believe that proton therapy has the most
benefits to the ordinary patient. The non
invasive treatment allows the patient to carry on
a normal lifestyle without weeks or months of
physical side effects that are present with otherMore...

re: Medicare reimbursements for proton therapy for treating prostate cancer

[PHI Redacted]was diagnosed with prostate cancer. After six months of rigorous medical research, plus personal interviews with professionals in    More...

[PHI Redacted] did extensive research before deciding on pursuing Proton Radiation Therapy for [PHI Redacted] treatment for many reasons, several of which are: Proton Radiation treatment, according to the re   More...

Regarding Proton Therapy for Prostate cancer:

I graduated with an MD degree in 1960. Two members of my class
developed prostate cancer about the same time in 2001. One had
proton treatment and never missed a day of work and had vir   More...

Proton radiation therapy for prostate cancer.

[PHI Redacted] was diagnosed with prostate cancer after a biopsy. PSA=14.9 and a Gleason score of 9. [PHI Redacted] was accepted for proton and photon thera   More...

I believe that Proton Therapy is a valid and
useful treatment for prostate cancer. As a
graduate mechanical engineer and retired NASA
employee, I feel that my experience qualifies me
to do the research necessary to sort out the tru   More...

How about listening to a patient who went through Proton Beam therapy for Prostate Cancer instead of just listening to Drs who have a vested interest in their own treatment methods. [PHI Redacted] oncologist recommended and wa   More...

[PHI Redacted] prostate cancer survivor with an undergraduate degree in engineering. [PHI Redacted] choice of treatment was Proton Therapy at Loma Linda University Medical Center.

More than eight year   More...

receive Proton Radition Therapy for a very aggressive type of Prostate Cancer in . Readings were over 5 for Psa and a Gleason count of over 9. This preculeded from having seeding   More...

After a biopsy in 2006, [PHI Redacted] was told that [PHI Redacted] had prostate cancer. [PHI Redacted] was shocked. Being an engineer, [PHI Redacted] wanted more data. More...

In [PHI Redacted] had a PSA of 25. After consulting with a urologist [PHI Redacted] was informed that surgery was [PHI Redacted] only viable option. After research [PHI Redacted]More...

I understand that reimbursement for proton beam therapy for prostate cancer is in danger of being reduced or eliminated. I wish to voice my concern that the most effective treatment out there will be unavailable to the people who would benefi   More...

[PHI Redacted] was diagnosed with prostate cancer. [PHI Redacted] PSA was 6.1 and had a Gleason score of 9. (4+5) [PHI Redacted] prostate was the size of a grapefruit. After considering all ava   More...

[PHI Redacted] diagnosed with prostate cancer but [PHI Redacted] refuse to accept the barberic choices that are offered as conventional protocol. [PHI Redacted] found out about the proton beam    More...

This comment is in support of Proton Beam Therapy (PBT) for treatment of prostate cancer. Early in was diagnosed with prostate cancer and the local medical practitioners each predic   More...

[PHI Redacted] had treatment 11 years ago with no side effects.Many of the men that have other treatment have adverse side effects that I would prefer not to have. I feel that [PHI Redacted] received the best   More...

In [PHI Redacted] received proton radiation for prostate cancer.[PHI Redacted] satisfied with the results. [PHI Redacted] no major side effects. [PHI Redacted] walk a couple m   More...

I just received an email that the CMS has made a proposal to Medicare to discontinue reimbursement for proton treatment of prostate cancer. [PHI Redacted] living proof that this procedure is the BEST. [PHI Redacted]More...

I would like to address the issue of discontinued coverage for Proton Beam Therapy for Prostate Cancer. I believe it would be a disservice to men diagnosed with Prostate Cancer. [PHI Redacted] was diagnosed with Prostate Cance   More...

I understand that CMS has made a proposal to stop
Medicare reimbursement for Proton therapy for
Prostate cancer treatments. Why?

Don''t prostate cancer patients deserve a chance to
receive the best available treatment? Are you
   More...

[PHI Redacted] had Proton Beam Treatment for prostate cancer from [PHI Redacted].[PHI Redacted] was 63 at the time. Treatment was given at the center at Loma Linda, California. [PHI Red   More...

Dear Sirs:

I am quite perplexed that some wish to stop Medicare coverage of proton beam theoropy for the treatment of prostrate cancer. [PHI Redacted] recieved proton theropy a year ago. [PHI Redacted]More...

Re: Proton therapy for prostate cancer.

I am concerned about the campaign to eliminate Medicare coverage for the treatment of prostate cancer by proton radiation.

[PHI Redacted] was diagnosed in 2002 with pro   More...

I understand that Proton Beam Therapy is being reviewed by the Governing Medicare Policy board for elimination of coverage due to spurious reasons of not being significantly better than the typical treatment (i.e. Prostate Removal). [P   More...

Well this has been a very interesting read. [PHI Redacted] [PHI Redacted] Urologist was a surgeon and of course he wanted [PHI Redacted] to get a Radical here locally with in the next three mon   More...

Please continue paying for proton therapy. It
is the most logical treatment for many kinds of
cancer.

I believe Medicare Coverage should continue to cover Proton Therapy Radiation for prostate cancer and a variety of other diseases. The alternative radiation therapys may be acceptable for physicians and patients who do not have access to prot   More...

Recognizing the conflicting interests of contributors to this discussion, I comment only as [PHI Redacted] who did [PHI Redacted] homework prior to treatment for prostate cancer. I am convinced of the superior   More...

[PHI Redacted] 82 year old man in Louisville ,Ky who had 41 Proton Beam treatments in Jacksonville ,Fl. in [PHI Redacted] and now a PSA reading of .23 and a lot better quality of life since [PHI Redact   More...

Proton Therapy: [PHI Redacted] had Proton Therapy in the summer of [PHI Redacted] at Loma Linda, at age 68, with a PSA of 8.4. [PHI Redacted] thoroughly researched all [PHI Redacted]More...

[PHI Redacted] treated in 2oo6 For Prostat cancer at Loma Linda Hospital in Calif. It was the best treatment with no down side. It wold be a mistake to not allow this great treatment for medicare patients.
Ken KalinMore...

In 5 months, [PHI Redacted] PSA went from 5.9 to 1.27 as a result of Proton Therapy. The main advantage of this treatment is the fact that [PHI Redacted] experienced no side affects. As we look to the future, l   More...

I strongly oppose the elimination of funding for proton therapy by Medicare. For thirty-three years, I served as Associate Professor then Professor of Medicine at the University of Tennesee College of Medicine. [PHI Redacted]    More...

re: Proton beam therapy for prostate cancer

As one who has been researching Proton Beam Therapy, specifically existing facilities, I am dismayed at the prospect of coverage no longer being extended to this treatment option for prosta   More...

Regarding Medicare Payment for Protons

[PHI Redacted] Nine years ago, [PHI Redacted] was treated for Prostate Cancer at Loma Linda University''s Proton Treatment Center, in California, started on More...

Alomost 9 years ago [PHI Redacted] had proton radiation therapy for prostate cancer. [PHI Redacted] free from cancer today and have continued in [PHI Redacted] profession during these nine year   More...

[PHI Redacted] was devastated by a diagnosis of prostate cancer. Initial research revealed a range of treatments with relatively similar cure potential. In my detailed research, I read several books, talked to dozens of prosta   More...

[PHI Redacted] was treated for prostate cancer in [PHI Redacted] with Protons and Photons. [PHI Redacted] PSA at treatment time was 32. [PHI Redacted] 5 years out from treatment,   More...

Two issues have been brought up by others in
this commentary that should be addressed:

1) Regarding the concern that proton therapy for
prostate cancer has no additional benefit above
and beyond conventional IMRT photon treatmen   More...

[PHI Redacted] a three year prostate cancer survivor who received Proton Beam Therapy at Midwest Proton Radiotherapy Institute in Bloomington, Indiana. [PHI Redacted] found Proton Beam Therapy to be a God sen   More...

[PHI Redacted] completed proton radiaton at Loma Linda Hospital in California August [PHI Redacted].[PHI Redacted] last follow up PSA last year was still undetectible.Several of my friends    More...

[PHI Redacted] was treated with proton beam radiation theraphy for prostate cancer at the end of [PHI Redacted] through the month of [PHI Redacted] up to the 15th, 2008,45 treatments in total.    More...

RE the proton radiation treatment for prostate cancer. [PHI Redacted] had the "traditional" treatment of prostate cancer which was surgical removal of the prostate along with seminal vesicles and lymph nodes, and four years af   More...

re: Proton Therapy

[PHI Redacted] a previous proton therapy patient treated for prostate cancer over five years ago and suffering no side effects, [PHI Redacted] this this treatment offers better post-t   More...

[PHI Redacted] there is no question in my mind that Proton Radiation Therapy is far superior to any other form of prostate cancer treatment. When [PHI Redacted] first learned that [PHI Redacted]More...

Proton Therapy: [PHI Redacted] underwent this procedure just over a year ago. [PHI Redacted] PSA was 17.2 before beginning treatment,since then it has been checked at 6 month intervals and has been 0.3 both tim   More...

PROTON THERAPY for PROSTATE CANCER: [PHI Redacted] was treated with Proton Therapy in [PHI Redacted]. [PHI Redacted] suffered no significant side effects during or after treatment, which is mor   More...

[PHI Redacted] had proton radiation ten years ago at 57 years of age and I can say that without a doubt it was the best action that [PHI Redacted] could have taken to treat cancer.

[PHI Redacted   More...

To begin with, [PHI Redacted] was assured that Medicare would cover 80% of [PHI Redacted] Proton Therapy costs; they covered LESS than 50% & [PHI Redacted] paid the balance. The program is    More...

I have been informed that CMS has made a proposal to stop Medicare reimburseents for proton therapy for treating prostate cancer. I would like to please ask them to reconsider their proposal. [PHI Redacted] had prostate cancer   More...

I am concerned about the possibility the Proton Beam Radiation Therapy is even being considered of disqualification for payment by the Medicare Organization.

[PHI Redacted] was diagnosed with prostate cancer and found o   More...

Dear Sirs,

[PHI Redacted] was diagnosed with prostate cancer in June of [PHI Redacted]. Living in Sun City West, Arizona,a retirement community, I have many friends who have had prostate cancer and ha   More...

Proton beam therapy cures prostate cancer and [PHI Redacted] the side affects are
minimal. Other therapies also work, but many of my friends have experienced debilitating side affects.

If Medicare doesn''t co   More...

Proton beam therapy for Prostate Cancer:
The notice CMS is planning to discontinue helping
with the treatment of prostate cancer by Proton
beam therapy is unthinkable. This treatment with
little or no side effects has been provide   More...

[PHI Redacted] received Proton Therapy for Prostate Cancer and had no adverse side effects. I feel that Medicare should continue to cover this form of treatment. Initially Proton Therapy may be more expensive, but in the long    More...

In [PHI Redacted], [PHI Redacted] was diagnosed with prostate cancer. [PHI Redacted] was offered several options for treatment, chose proton therapy. The treatments caused no pain or discomfort   More...

Proton Treatment of Cancer

As an Engineer, with a BS from the U. S. Naval Academy and an MSIE from Stanford University, CA,[PHI Redacted], I feel I am well qualified to comment on the mistaken approach CMS wants to ta   More...

[PHI Redacted] opted for proton therapy because, in the absence of clinical trials, [PHI Redacted] became convinced through experiential data and anecdotal evidence obtained from dozens of personal interviews w   More...

My comment is in regard to Medicare considering no longer providing coverage for Proton treatment to prostate cancer patients.[PHI Redacted] completed Proton treatment three years ago having been diagnosed with that conditio   More...

I am more than a little disturbed that medicaid or medicare are being advised to discontinue coverage of proton radiation therapy for prostate cancer. The urging seems to come from other professionals who offer competing therapies. [PHI   More...

It has come to my attention that some powerful forces are trying to stop Medicare and Medicade funding for Proton Radiation treatment for Prostate Cancer.

I don''t know what their motives are but their efforts are certainly very regr   More...

[PHI Redacted]82 years old and in excellent health, which [PHI Redacted] attribute primarily to Proton Beam therapy at Loma Linda University in [PHI Redacted]. Prior to that time, [PHI    More...

I think it would be a grave error to not fund proton therapy for prostate cancer. [PHI Redacted] I can attest to the fact that it is the best treatment available. [PHI Redacted]

[PHI Redacted] received proton radiation treatment during [PHI Redacted], and very satisfied with the results: no incontinance or impotence, no pain during treatment, and presently a PSA level below 1.0.

[PHI Redacted] experienced proton beam radiation therapy treatment for prostate cancer, and can honestly say that the side effects, with the exception of minor urinary discomfort, were basically non-existant. After nine months   More...

[PHI Redacted]

I had [PHI Redacted] who had surgery and had considerable discomfort and incontinence for the rest of their lives. One had reccurance of cancer which caused his death. Also, [PH   More...

I am not a doctor or a nurse or medical practitioner of any kind. So, I feel like I''m battling the Goliaths (Doctors) who have already addressed this topic: - Proton Therapy for Prostate Cancer- here in this comment forum. Their education, k   More...

[PHI Redacted]I am amazed that Medicare would consider removing this effective prostate cancer treatment from its payment list! [PHI Redacted], along with the thousands of other prostate cancer survivors who w   More...

[PHI Redacted] received the proton treatment for prostate cancer last year. [PHI Redacted] had no adverse problems from this treatment. One year after the treatment [PHI Redacted] had two PSA t   More...

Five years ago [PHI Redacted] let doctors talk [PHI Redacted] into surgery to try and get rid of prostate cancer. [PHI Redacted] been incontinent for five years now and the cancer has come back   More...

[PHI Redacted] I believe the cestation of payment for Proton Beam Therapy for the treatment of Prostate Cancer would be a huge mistake. [PHI Redacted] thoroughly researched the different forms of cancer treatm   More...

[PHI Redacted] received Proton therapy last fall. [PHI Redacted], and felt that the treatment much was much less invasive then regular radiation treatment. [PHI Redacted] was considered a high    More...

[PHI Redacted] was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2006, at age [PHI Redacted]. Testing established that [PHI Redacted] was otherwise in good health.

I bagan my own research, intervi   More...

[PHI Redacted] went thru the protron treatment at Loma Linda Medical Center in CA. Please, please don''t listen to urologists, most of whom don''t recomend or understand proton treatment and are only looking out for themselves   More...

My experience with Proton Therapy for the treatment of prostate cancer is that there have been NO side effects during or following treatment.

There have been no continence or bowel control problems and no erectile function effects. No    More...

I am writing this comment on Proton Beam Radiation treatment for prostate cancer as [PHI Redacted]. [PHI Redacted] last treatment was on [PHI Redacted] and most recent PSA, taken on [PHI   More...

[PHI Redacted] was diagnosed with prostate cancer and chose proton beam therapy treatment after carefully examing all available treatments. I strongly believe this treatment is superior to alternative procedures; especially wh   More...

Proton treatment for Prostate Cancer

The value of Proton Beam treatment for prostate
cancer appears to be beyond dispute if patient
satisfaction with the lack of side effects counts
for anything.

The value of the prolif   More...

I am very diappointed to hear that CMS has proposed to stop Medicare reimbursements for Proton Therapy for treating Prostate Cancer. [PHI Redacted] was diagnosed with Prostate Cancer. [PHI Redacted] PSA 7.0 Gl   More...

[PHI Redacted] treated for advanced prostate cancer at LLU s proton treatment facility and cured. [PHI Redacted] PSA went from 34 to less than0.9. [PHI Redacted] disease fre 4 yrs after treatmen   More...

During a routine examination, [PHI Redacted] family doctor noticed a small rise is PSA 2.7 to 3.7 in a 12- month period. To be on the safe side, she referred [PHI Redacted] to an urologist. A biopsy was taken    More...

Proton beam therapy for prostate cancer.

The call came on Friday, [PHI Redacted]. This is Dr. XX calling with your biopsy results the voicemail said. When he heard this he knew it probably wasn’t good news. Doct   More...

When [PHI Redacted] was diagnosed with prostate cancer with a PSA of 7.0 and a 7.5 Gleason Index, investigated options. I talked to many men who had surgery or regular radiation. They all had similar side affects, i.e., inconti   More...

Proton Radiation

At age 72, I believe the Lord led [PHI Redacted] to proton treatment for prostate cancer. I also believe that proton radiation has cured [PHI Redacted] prostate cancer as evidenced by t   More...

I have a Ph.D. in Nuclear Engineering/Physics and
feel that I should comment on the therapeutic use
of protons for a variety of cancers including
prostate. I have no special knowledge of details
of cancer itself, or the cellular bi   More...

With regards to the CMS proposal to stop coverage for Proton Treatment for Prostate Cancer I respectfully request that you DO NOT stop this very important coverage. [PHI Redacted] was treated with this procedure and when More...

[PHI Redacted] I wish to make this confirming notice that [PHI Redacted] treatment was PROTON THERAPY. Course of treatment was completed in [PHI Redacted]. [PHI Redacted] mon   More...

Any radiation is harmful to healthy tissue.
Proton treatment minimizes the entry radiation
dose, maximizes the dose to the tumor and has
negligible exit dose. Beacause the radiation
dose to healthy tissues is less with protons, th   More...

The idea to remove medicare coverage for proton treatment of prostate cancer would be a major step backward. As a scientifically trained person, [PHI Redacted] made the decision to get this treatment six years ago because    More...

I want to comment on Proton Beam Radiation Treatment for Prostate Cancer. [PHI Redacted] was diagnosed with Prostate Cancer at the Veterans Administration in late [PHI Redacted].    More...

I am puzzled as to why no comparative studies have been conducted between proton and photon raidation treatment. [PHI Redacted], I researched all availalble therapies and believe the best case for effective treatment of More...

It is foolish to stop Medicare payments for proton beam radiation treatments. [PHI Redacted] was treated in [PHI Redacted] at Loma Linda Hospital with proton beam radiation for prostate cancer. To this date, th   More...

[PHI Redacted] received Proton Beam treatment in [PHI Redacted]. [PHI Redacted] PSA was 11.2,Gleason was 4 and Staging was T1C. [PHI Redacted] PSA today is .6. [PHI Redact   More...

PROTON THERAPY: I write to urge continuation of Medicare reimbursement for Proton Beam Ratiation Therapy (PBRT). [PHI Redacted] diagnosed with prostate cancer in [PHI Redacted], and discussed case with several   More...

I was fortunate enough to learn of proton therapy from a friend [PHI Redacted]. [PHI Redacted] underwent ten weeks of proton therapy four years ago without any side effects whatsoever, during treatment or since   More...

Proton beam therapy for prostate cancer appears in your 7/30/2008 document as a potential topic for discussion in the third quarter of 2008. In the paragraph devoted to this topic you state, “no current comparative trials comparing (i   More...

I believe it is extreamly important that Medicare continues to cover Proton therapy for prostate cancer. Side effects and cure rate are very important considerations when selecting a medical procedure.[PHI Redacted]

CMS Consideration in No Longer Providing Reimbursement for Proton Beam RX for Prostate Cancer.

[PHI Redacted] received proton beam therapy for prostate cancer paid for by Medicare and I am a proponent of Medicare con   More...

I''m not going to pull any punches here but the detractors of Proton Beam treatment specifically in regard to Prostate Cancer treatment are usually specialists in other treatments. Hardly an unbiased segment of the medical ''''profession'   More...

Re: PSA Testing and proton beam treatment for prostate cancer.

I have read news reports that a discontinuance of coverage for these items is being considered. I believe this is a huge mistake. The reasons cited in the news reports we   More...

Re: PROTON RADIATION THERAPY FOR PROSTATE CANCER My comments for the continuing reimbursement by Medicare for proton radiation treatment for prostate cancer are heartfelt and are based on my own personal experience.

[PHI Reda   More...

I am commenting on the potential removal from Medicare Coverage of proton radiation for prostate cancer.

[PHI Redacted] was diagnosed with prostate cancer in [PHI Redacted]. [PHI Redacted]More...

[PHI Redacted] I too was troubled by lack of comparative trials between modalities. It seems that the best head-to-head study would involve a randomized test of treatments involuntarily assigning patients the modality of trea   More...

[PHI Redacted] a successful patient of Proton Radiation Treatment, and an aggressive and vocal proponent of that treatment option for the past five years. I was shocked to learn that Medicare coverage for this excellent treatm   More...

[PHI Redacted] was treated for prostate cancer using protons. [PHI Redacted] not suffered from any of the common side affects of other treatments. I consider this a superior form of treatment. Clearly the increa   More...

[PHI Redacted] received proton beam therapy for prostate cancer and wish to comment that the treatment was effective, with very little side effect, and has reduced any need for folllow-up. Please continue to make it available    More...

Please do not cut medicare coverage for PROTON BEAM THERAPY to treat cancer it is the best, [PHI Redacted] received PBT [PHI Redacted] and doing fine PSA 0.01 Last four checkups.

Proton Beam Treatments for Prostate Cancer Patients

After being diagnosed with Prostate cancer in [PHI Redacted], [PHI Redacted] did a great deal of research to determine what treatment would best keep   More...

I wish to comment on the proposals to not cover Medicaid coverage for Proton Beam Radiation for Prostate Cancer. [PHI Redacted] received Proton Beam Radiation for prostate cancer under Medicaid/supplement insurance coverage in   More...

Only individuals who have not personally experienced prostate cancer could reasonably suggest that the cost comparison in this debate should begin and end with the fact that survival rates are equivalent.

Follow-on costs and quality    More...

The post Proton prostrate cancer treatment support group that [PHI Redacted] joined enlightened to the extreme side effects of radical, DiVinchi surgery, and x-ray beam treatments which [PHI Redacted] had prev   More...

Dear Sirs,

When an [PHI Redacted] associate told me of his complete cure for his prostate cancer by Proton radiation, as a professional mechanical engineer and holder of seventy-nine United States patents, I am of co   More...

Re: Proton Therapy for prostate cancer [PHI Redacted] received proton therapy from [PHI Redacted]. The treatment was painless, quick, and effective. There were NEVER any side effects. [PHI Redacted]More...

Please not remove CMS approval for Proton Beam therapy under Medicare. [PHI Redacted] was sucessfully treated with Proton Beam Therapy at UFPTI the fall of [PHI Redacted]. [PHI Redacted] had a    More...

Three years ago [PHI Redacted] was diagnosed with prostate cancer. [PHI Redacted] reviewed the various choices available and selected proton beam therapy. [PHI Redacted] [PHI Redacted]<   More...

Regarding bisphosphonate treatment for
osteoporosis and osteonecrosis of the jaw, there
is no reason to believe that the route of
administration is a risk factor. Dose (i.e.,
higher doses given IV for cancer) increase the
likelihoo   More...

I am a [PHI Redacted] retired academic Pathologist who taught at the University of California San Diego, Loyola University Medical School, and the University of California at Irvine. I had a long time affiliation with the Depa   More...

[PHI Redacted] a cancer survivor thanks to Proton radiation. [PHI Redacted] completed radiation in [PHI Redacted] with absolutely no side effects what so ever..[PHI Redacted] en   More...

[PHI Redacted] was treated with proton radiation three years ago and very distressed that Medicare is considering removing coverage of this vital cancer treatment. When [PHI Redacted] was diagnosed and began    More...

[PHI Redacted]received 8 weeks of Proton & 3D therapy for Prostate Cancer - No complications! [PHI Redacted] had a prostatectomy - spent 10 days in the hospital, he suffered from incontinence & erectil   More...

I am a neurosurgeon certified by the American
Board of Neurological Surgery in May 1979. I was
Chairman of Neurosurgery and residency program
director for 10 years at the National Naval
Medical Center, Bethesda, MD. I have been in
   More...

Proton Beam Radiation Treatment for Prostate Cancer.

[PHI Redacted] finished treatment, [PHI Redacted], at Loma Linda, Ca. for Prostate Cancer. There has been zero side effects and he feels wonderful,   More...

It is disheartening to read postings
from ''medical professionals'' that only consider
the technical and first appearance cost aspects
of cancer treatment and not the final outcome.
At first glance it appears these ''professionals'   More...

[PHI Redacted] had the proton treatment,it is the best procedure and worth all the money and time doing it. No problems after seven years. [PHI Redacted] had this done at 80 after Dr. said we do not operate    More...

Both Kyphoplasty and Vertebroplasty have worked
extremely well in my practice. I have experience
with over 500 cases, and the results are nearly
miraculous. People who come into my suite barely
able to ambulate, leave one hour later    More...

[PHI Redacted] received Proton Radiation treatment for prostate cancer which was covered by Medicare because of age (71).Being a retired chemical engineer, I carefully studied the cure rates and side effects of the various trea   More...

Proton treatment for prostate cancer

[PHI Redacted] I cannot express strongly enough my belief that it should continue to be covered.

[PHI Redacted] had zero side-effects from the treatment (unl   More...

[PHI Redacted] a survivor of prostate cancer, and I attribute the cure to the proton beam treatment [PHI Redacted]. [PHI Redacted] PSA level is now 0.1. Medicare approved the procedure and with   More...

[PHI Redacted] former prostate cancer patient who was treated with proton therapy under Medicare approximately six years ago. [PHI Redacted] suffered no side effects from the therapy, and PSA has hovered near    More...

[PHI Redacted] a recovering prostate cancer patient who received proton treatment. [PHI Redacted] experience-and that of the hundreds of other proton patients with whom I have had contact-was outstanding. The    More...

My comment is with respect to the following proposal; Proton beam therapy for prostate cancer: Proposed as means to concentrate radiation therapy and reduce side effects. Very high upfront cost to build these facilities and thus only at v   More...

Between [PHI Redacted], [PHI Redacted] was treated for prostate cancer at Loma Linda Medical Center. [PHI Redacted] was treated with Proton Therapy. [PHI Redacted] made this de   More...

[PHI Redacted] underwent Proton therapy treatment for Prostate Cancer in 2005. I learned of this cancer treatment thru my dentist whose father-in-law had the treatment 16 years earlier( & is still cancer- free). After bein   More...

SUBJECT: Response to The Possibility of CMS Eliminating Payment for Proton Beam Radiation Therapy for Prostate Cancer

[PHI Redacted] received proton beam radiation therapy Gy 18 months ago to cure prostate cancer. More...

Proton beam therapy for prostate cancer: Proposed as means to concentrate radiation therapy and reduce side effects. Very high upfront cost to build these facilities and thus only at very few facilities. For prostate cancer treatment, no curr   More...

My Perspective [PHI Redacted] Concerning Medicare Funding of Proton Beam Therapy

[PHI Redacted] I submit the following for your consideration.

Prior to selecting PBT, [PHI Redacted]More...

In [PHI Redacted] developed prostate cancer and researched all the different treatments and decided, without a doubt, on Proton Therapy. [PHI Redacted] now cancer free and so thankful that Medicare and Blue Cro   More...

[PHI Redacted] a Prostate Cancer Survivor. [PHI Redacted] had Proton Beam Radiation on Prostate and writing to encourage you to continue financial support for this type of treatment that I would say is superio   More...

Ablation for atrial fibrillation: If medication is not effective or not tolerated for atrial fibrillation, a nonsurgical procedure called catheter ablation may be chosen. Focal and circumferential catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation is    More...

[PHI Redacted] was diagnosed with prostate cancer in [PHI Redacted]. [PHI Redacted] doctor recommended proton therapy treatment. [PHI Redacted] accepted that advice. [PH   More...

I have been a practicing Orthopedic Surgeon performing total hip arthoplasty for over 21 years. The BHR resurfacing arthoplasty represents a dramatic improvement in this proceedure. The BHR is a total hip in that both the acetabulum and femor   More...

Proton Beam Therapy is the most effective method for treatment of prostate cancer. It has the best statistics for complete recovery without the serious side effects that are characteristic of ''seeds, surgery, and x-rays''. [PHI Redact   More...

Proton Treatment for Prostate Cancer

[PHI Redacted] recently completed 45 proton treatments for prostate cancer. [PHI Redacted] cannot express the gratitude for being able to receive this treatment. More...

Eliminating Medicare coverage for the treatment of prostate cancer with proton beam therapy is very ill-advised. Attention instead should be to bring down the cost of treatment in the years ahead.

After months of careful investigation in   More...

I am not medical never have been nor will I ever be but what I do know from experience. [PHI Redacted] was diagnosed with prostate cancer over two years ago. He weighed many options but the only one that made sense to him was P   More...

There is an error in my comment
The paragraph "In addition to the above, the AMA in 2005
published a report stating that over one third of those patients
having a prostatectomy will have a reoccuranceof cancer within
10 years."
<   More...

I am a retired USDA Veterinary Medical Officer (Foreign Programs Officer) [PHI Redacted]. [PHI Redacted] was treated succesfully by proton beam radiation with practically no untoward effects or complications. <   More...

[PHI Redacted] was diagnosed with prostate cancer in July of [PHI Redacted] and spent six months analyzing all the treatment options (including surgery, IMRT, proton beam therapy and seeds), deciding on Proton    More...

This is in regards to Medicare possibly dropping medicare recipients from receiving aid for Proton Radiation treatments for prostate cancer. [PHI Redacted] After witnessing [PHI Redacted] with prostate cancer   More...

Re: Proposal to stop Proton Medicare reimbursements:

[PHI Redacted] a Prostate Cancer survivor who owes life to having been able to receive Proton Therapy seven years ago. [PHI Redacted] cancer, Glea   More...

I am commenting on the proposal to discontinue reimbursement by Medicare for Proton Radiation Therapy. [PHI Redacted] had Proton Therapy for prostate cancer and the reason [PHI Redacted] selected Proton over al   More...

Proton Therapy Treatment for Prostate Cancer

Based on [PHI Redacted] experiance I strongly urge CMS to continue to cover Proton Therapy Treatment for prostate cancer. [PHI Redacted] PSA is down to .05   More...

[PHI Redacted] did a lot of research and consulted several doctors before choosing proton therapy for treating [PHI Redacted] prostate cancer. I think proton therapy is best for many man due to the minimalizai   More...

Dear Sir or Madam,

I cannot fathom the proposal to disallow Medicare reimbursement for Proton therapy treatment. This issue should not be about the cost of the treatment, but rather its effectiveness and lack of side effects, which res   More...

RE: Medicare/Medicaid Coverage of Proton Therapy for Treatment of Prostate Cancer

There is no question in my mind that proton therapy offers the best available treatment option for men diagnosed with early- or intermediate-stage pros   More...

[PHI Redacted] After checking out several alternative treatments [PHI Redacted] decided on Proton. There are very few side effects with this treatment. Just a little red spot on one hip was the extent of More...

I am concerned that CMS will remove proton therapy from coverage by medicare, based on the biased and uneducated responses of many oncologists and radiologists who favor IMRT. Many of the comments I have read so far demonstrate a lack of kn   More...

I am [PHI Redacted] and a retired air Force veteran. I strongly oppose the emlimina- tion of funding of Proton Therapy from Medicare.

[PHI Redacted] a one year survivor who had Proton Therapy. More...

It is imperative that proton therapy be covered
by medicare! Opponents(all who seem to be
motivated by reduction in the income from their
specialties) state things like "brachytherapy
has equal result to proton therapy". No one has   More...

Response to question of effectiveness of Proton Treatment: Proton treatment has Successfully treated prostate Cancer in 2004. [PHI Redacted] I am definitely a proponent of Proton Treatment. Thank You

Regarding the funding of proton radiation
treatment for prostate cancer:
Consideration should be given to the fact that
many of the patients were not acceptable for
other cancer treatments because of the higher
grades of their c   More...

[PHI Redacted] was diagnosed with Prostate Cancer and thought it was the end of the world. [PHI Redacted] doctors told [PHI Redacted] to "pick poison"; i.e. surgery, seeds, or radiation. All ha   More...

Proton beam therapy is definatly saving lives in
all age groups from babies to 80 year olds. Some
procedures are not even possible especially on
small children except with Proton beam therapy.
The almost total lack of side affects   More...

[PHI Redacted] Almost [PHI Redacted] years ago, [PHI Redacted] began proton radiation treatment at Loma Linda University Medical Center for prostate cancer. More...

[PHI Redacted] I believe that proton therapy should continue to be covered by Medicare. [PHI Redacted] received news that [PHI Redacted] had prostate cancer. [PHI Redacted] ele   More...

The case for proton therapy can readily be made in all three areas currently being discussed, i.e., cost, effectiveness, and quality of life during and after treatment.

Cost - The perception is generally accepted and widely disribute   More...

"The prime function of government is the protection of life and property."

Any government agency that is responsible for the welfare of its citizens, should put its citizens first especially with health care. I researched what form o   More...

I have personally met a number of people who have
had proton treatment for prostate cancer The
level of vigorous physical activity those men
demonstrated during and after their treatment,
the sexual potency they reported and their   More...

Many persons covered by Medicare are on fixed
imcomes and can not or may not be able to afford
the costs of Proton radiation treatment. By
removing this benifit many people would have to
choose a method of treatment that although i   More...

Having read several books on prostate cancer and talked with a number of friends with prostate cancer, I believe that proton therapy is a very viable treatment option for this type of cancer and should be kept in the arsenal of treatment opti   More...

I am deeply troubled by the proposal to remove Medicare coverage of proton beam therapy for prostate cancer.

[PHI Redacted]

Granted, many candidates for proton therapy cannot take the time, nor would they ha   More...

Dear CMS

I understand that CMS may stop Medicare payments for prostate cancer patients using proton therapy. Please reconsider this drastic action for the following reasons.

1. The COST of proton treatment is reasonable c   More...

Please continue medicare coverage for proton therapy.

The cause of death on [PHI Redacted] death certificate states "carcinoma of the prostate gland". You may be assured [PHI Redacted] carefully check   More...

I have mailed this letter in its full form anticipating that parts of this will have to be deleted due to the "Posting Policy"...

I have no medical degree, but I have learned more in the past few years than I ever thought I would k   More...

I want to support the discussion of Hip Resurfacing and Medicare coverage of Hip Resurfacing.

I am [PHI Redacted] a Patient Advocate and Owner/Webmaster of a large Hip Resurfacing Website called Surface Hippy.     More...

Proton Therapy is not invasive, has an excellent
cure rate and does not have side effects. For most
men this is the first choice of treatment.
PROTON THERAPY:

To consider not covering proton therapy for
prostate cancer is uncons   More...

I want to support the discussion of Hip Resurfacing and the Medicare coverage of Hip Resurfacing.

[PHI Redacted] had hip resurfacing surgery (BHR) from Dr [PHI Redacted] in Honolulu in August and find   More...

I would like to support the discussion of covering hip resurfacing under Medicare. [PHI Redacted] Resurfacing is a great procedure, and its appropriateness is not determined by age, but rather by theindividual patient''s bone    More...

My comments are in reference to the proposal of medicare and medicaid to no longer pay for proton radiation treatment for prostate cancer. I am now retired but was a board certified immunologist with a practice in allergy, asthma and immunolo   More...

I want to support the discussion of Hip Resurfacing and the Medicare coverage of Hip Resurfacing.

Hip Resurfacing is a viable option for people over 65 years of age. Hip resurfacing candidates are n   More...

I want to support the discussion of Hip Resurfacing and the Medicare coverage of Hip Resurfacing.

[PHI Redacted]

Hip Resurfacing is a viable option for people over 65 years of age. Hip resurfacing candidates   More...

Proton Therapy for Prostate Cancer.

I hope the government will cover N-plate and the other new TPOs
as treatments for ITP. So few treatments are available for those of
us who have this platelet disorder, and these new TPOs sound so
promising.

I want to support the discussion of Hip Resurfacing and the Medicare coverage of Hip Resurfacing.

[PHI Redacted]

I definitely think Medicare should cover the surgery and procedure. As an engineer I view th   More...

Hip Resurfacing

[PHI Redacted] it is a bone conserving surgery. An analogy would be if you had a hang nail, would you amputate your finger ...no of course not ....then if you have no cartilage left from osteoart   More...

[PHI Redacted] was a recipient of a birmingham hip resurfacing in [PHI Redacted] and would strongly encourage the Government to approve this procedure as an alternative to a full hip replacement. While slightl   More...

I want to support the discussion of Hip Resurfacing and the Medicare coverage of Hip Resurfacing.

[PHI Redacted]

Hip Resurfacing is a viable option for people over 65 years of age. Hip resurfacing candidat   More...

Proton Therepy should not be elimnated from
medicare,. This therapy is state of the art,
precise and effective. We do not start treatment
with the old drugs because they are cheeper. We
use all the modern advancement to save lives.   More...

I want to support the discussion of Hip Resurfacing and the Medicare coverage of Hip Resurfacing.

[PHI Redacted]

Hip Resurfacing is a viable option for people over 65 years of age. Hip resurfacing candidates   More...

Coronary angioplasty and stenting
(PCI=Percutaneous Coronary Intervention ) is
second in volume only to diagonostic coronary
angiogrphy.In patients with ACS( acute coronary
syndrome,i.e. acute MI or unstable angina) , PCI
has been    More...

[PHI Redacted] found out that had prostate cancer [PHI Redacted]. As an engineer [PHI Redacted] began and exhaustive research on the type of treatment and side effects as well as the possible i   More...

Reagrding BISPHOSPHONATES, I am strongly opposed
to an NCD for zoledronic acid. This agent is an
excellent drug for post menopausal osteoporosis
as well as for prevention of a recurrent fracture
after a hip fracture, especially in   More...

[PHI Redacted] completed proton therapy for prostate cancer[PHI Redacted].

After a couple months of reading studies in the field, talking with men who had received proton treatment, and with other   More...

I want to support the discussion of Hip Resurfacing and the Medicare coverage of Hip Resurfacing.

[PHI Redacted]

Hip Resurfacing is a viable option for people over 65 years of age. Hip resurfacing candidates   More...

[PHI Redacted] prostate cancer was zapped successully with proton radition. Side effects were almost non existrant during treatment and NO side effects since. Thank goodness Medicare covered this important cancer treatment.More...

Please don''t stop reimbursement of Proton Radiation Terapy. To do so is to sentence many to a life of impotence an incontinance or, for those with health problems that prohibit conventional therapy, a sentence to die. [PHI Redacted]More...

It is a miracle drug. Life changing and the key to the ITP dilemma.
It is imperative to keep this drug afloat, and to do whatever is
necessary to make it accessible and affordable for all ITP patients.

I am the co-division chief of Hematology at the
University of Colorado Health Sciences Center and
see patients with ITP frequently. I support the
coverage of Nplate for patients with
relapsed/refractory ITP. Such patients have f   More...

Regarding ITP and a need for more efficacious drugs, [PHI Redacted] hematologist gave the option of either a spleenectomy or oral prednisone to bring up platelet count. Neither was a good option as long as [PHI Redacted   More...

There must be more durgs made accesible,
especially for people with ITP. Since some of the
drugs have no effect on sustaining a normal
platlet count making day to day living difficult

I sincerely hope that the Centers for Medicatre and Medicaid do not send the drug NPLATE to determinations. [PHI Redacted] a Chronic ITP Patient who already is impacted by one drug and cannot receive it because the insurance c   More...

[PHI Redacted] I have been following the approval track of Nplate and similar drugs with anticipation. For some ITP patients, Nplate and similar class drugs, will provide a much tolerable treatment. Many times, the treatment    More...

RE: Platelet stimulating factors (romiplostim).
The FDA (the agency responsible for determining
efficacy and safety of drugs) has approved this
drug based on data submitted by the
manufacturer. The FDA have also put into place
   More...

My understanding is that Nplate (romiplostim) is being considered for an NCD, which may severely limit its use for certain patients. I wish to share my views and experiences with ITP, and the treatment options that have been available. More...

[PHI Redacted] was diagnosed with ITP two years ago. [PHI Redacted] platelet counts keep decreasing monthly and if all goes as is [PHI Redacted] will be in the high danger zone by [PHI    More...

[PHI Redacted] I [PHI Redacted] request that you consider the continued availability and affordability to the chronic ITP patient as recommended by the patient''s physician. Thank you.

[PHI Redacted] was diagnosed with ITP in Oct [PHI Redacted]. He has not responded well to "typical" treatments, i.e. steroids. Thus, he tried multiple types of treatments. Since they don''t know what causes IT   More...

[PHI Redacted] was diagnosed with ITP in ''[PHI Redacted] we exhausted many treatment options and eventually decided to be splenectomized. There are not many options that we haven''t already exhausted if ITP w   More...

I think that this must be a wonderful drug however, it is so difficult for any of the ITP patients to find a good doctor that with MeiCare [PHI Redacted]I hope that you understand.

I am writting to encourage broad coverage of Nplate (romiplostim)for ITP patients.

[PHI Redacted]

[PHI Redacted]this treatment offers an important treatment for ITP patients.

In ref   More...

Too limit this drug would be so wrong, no one can understand the roller coaster ride that TIP puts you on...[PHI Redacted] has been on all of the current treatments, his platelets have been at 1,ooo to 215,000. He has had eye    More...

I am writing this to support improved access to new ITP treatments. [PHI Redacted] Less intrusive medications that have stronger long-term effects are desperately needed for this under-researched disorder. The one thing we kn   More...

Thrombopoiesis stimulating agents

Severe bruising and a fear of being cut and bleeding to death have really changed [PHI Redacted] life.to have drugs that can remedy this would be a blessing.

It is imperative that topic of Coverage should
include anyone who has ITP and that it be
available at a reasonable cost, through
conventional insurance programs with no
restrictions. .

ITP totally took over [PHI Redacted] life. [PHI Redacted] had to go 60 miles away once a week for rutuxaban treatments which did not do any good. [PHI Redacted] was on doses as high as 80 mls.    More...

I hope this new FDA approved blood-platelet drug is approved for [PHI Redacted] bone-marrow disorder is severe and at times life-threatening. Lowered blood platelets cause everyday topical hematomas on the skin, and if one wer   More...

[PHI Redacted] was diagnosed with ITP two years ago, and I have watched her go through so many changes with this disease. The scariest time is when she has a "bleeding episode". We prayed so hard when she had her spleen remove   More...

[PHI Redacted] was diagnosed with ITP 7 years ago. [PHI Redacted] [has] utilized Rituxin, Steroids, IVIG and the only thing that has worked for short term periods of tiem is WinRho. After 4 years of using this   More...

Please do not send Nplate through an NCD
process. There are so many people with ITP out
there that are running out of options to live a
normal life without resorting to surgery or
other medications that have other deteriorating More...

I am writing to support the Medicare coverage of
hip resurfacing as an alternative to traditional
hip replacement.
As an orthopaedic surgeon with experience with
both hip replacement and hip resurfacing surgery,
I feel that hi   More...

Unfortunately,[PHI Redacted] passed away recently due to a fall that had caused her to bleed to death because of ITP. She had hit her head and broke her nose and they could not stop the bleeding. Please continue to send me u   More...

Regarding the new treatment for ITP...[PHI Redacted] [has] had ITP for 10 years. It is always exciting to hear of any new treatments on the horizon for us. Not only does it give us hope but it is wonderful to hear that compani   More...

[PHI Redacted] The point is, those who have ITP really need new and improved options to boost platelet levels, ones that can raise platelet counts without such severe side effects. While there are other treatments than steroi   More...

I want to support the discussion of Hip Resurfacing and the Medicare coverage of Hip Resurfacing.

[PHI Redacted]

Hip Resurfacing is a viable option for people over 65 years of age. Hip resurfacing candida   More...

I am commenting in regard to "ITP". All people with this illness need to have all treatments available to them (including the coverage of nplate). [PHI Redacted]

[PHI Redacted] is 21 years old and one year ago was diagnosed with ITP. Her course of treatment at the time was high doses of steroids for the first year. The steroids did increase her platelets only while she was on them, t   More...

[PHI Redacted] Living a life with ITP is like walking on egg shells. You get up one day and the medicine that was suppressing your immune system does not work and the platelets are at a dangerous level and all you can do is t   More...

[PHI Redacted] I strongly support availability of any treatments which could assist a post splenectomy patient who still needs to increase their platelet count to safe levels.

[PHI Redacted] I request that patients and doctors have ease of access to bone marrow producing platelet agents such as Nplate (romiplostim). It is my undersanding that by designating this to National Coverage Determinations i   More...

[PHI Redacted] has chronic ITP, and I would be outraged to hear that there was indeed a treatment available to help her heal, but that I personally could not get it for her. Thta doens''t seem fair, why make everyone involve   More...