|
The process to create the Breast Cancer License Tag began in 2001 after Kaiser Permanente hosted an event for Dr. Ernie Bodai, the Permanente physician who successfully advocated for the US Postal Service breast cancer research stamp. Kaiser Permanente obtained the support from the Atlanta Postmaster to use the image of the breast cancer research stamp. Kaiser Permanente then approached the Governor’s office and House of Representatives to request permission to obtain a special license plate for breast cancer. Kaiser Permanente and the Georgia Cancer Coalition worked collaboratively to get the legislation passed in the 2002 Georgia General Assembly.
The purpose of the Breast Cancer License Tag Fund is to expand breast cancer screening, including education, outreach and access, for the medically indigent consistent with clinical standard-of-care. While Georgia has been successful at increasing breast cancer screening rates, not all women – particularly the medically indigent – receive appropriate screening. When identified at an early stage, through mammography and clinical breast exams, breast cancer treatment is more effective and mortality rates improve.
The Georgia Department of Community Health (DCH) has contracted with the Georgia Cancer Coalition (GCC) to develop the process for administration, review and evaluation of applications, and disbursement of awards relative to the revenue received from the sale of Breast Cancer License Tags. This process was designed by the Georgia Cancer Coalition in concert with the Georgia Department of Community Health, and the Georgia Department of Human Resources, Division of Public Health.
Since 2003, more than $2 million has been contributed to the Fund by Georgians through the purchase of vehicle license plates, statewide promotion and partnerships with Georgia automobile dealers. In 2005, the Georgia Cancer Coalition awarded 24 grants exceeding $1million through a competitive grant application process. The grantees’ proposals aligned with the intended purpose of the Breast Cancer License Tag Fund which included education, breast cancer screening, outreach and access.
|