Susan G. Komen®, Rep. Emilia Sykes and Northeast Ohio Advocates Discuss Barriers to Breast Cancer Diagnosis That Could Save Lives

Roundtable at Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital highlights the impact of out-of-pocket costs for breast imaging and federal legislation to improve access to care

CANTON, Ohio--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Susan G. Komen^®, the world’s leading nonprofit breast cancer organization, today joined Rep. Emilia Sykes, Northeast Ohio breast cancer advocates and Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital Cancer Center leaders for a community roundtable focused on improving access to timely breast cancer imaging for patients across Ohio. More than 11,000 people in Ohio will be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2026 and more than 1,500 will die from the disease this year alone.

The roundtable discussion examined how out-of-pocket costs for imaging beyond a screening mammogram can delay care and explored federal policy solutions to help ensure patients can access the imaging they need, when they need it.

Through its Center for Public Policy, Komen has led state and federal efforts to eliminate financial barriers that prevent people from accessing essential breast imaging used as part of the early detection and diagnosis process. In addition to the 33 states that now have laws removing patient cost-sharing for these services, Komen worked with legislative champions to introduce the federal Access to Breast Cancer Diagnosis Act (H.R.3037/S.1500), which would remove the financial burden for everyone.

Before the roundtable, Rep. Sykes and congressional staff from the Ohio delegation toured Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital Cancer Center’s imaging and radiation facilities to learn more about the services available to patients across Northeast Ohio. During the roundtable, they heard directly from breast cancer community members about financial barriers that can prevent patients from receiving timely breast care.

While screening mammograms are typically covered without cost-sharing, follow-up diagnostic tests or those requiring supplemental breast imaging due to a higher risk of developing breast cancer —such as diagnostic mammograms, ultrasounds, or breast MRIs—can cost patients hundreds to even thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket costs. These unexpected expenses often lead to delays in care, with an estimated 1.1 million women nationwide postponing necessary imaging in 2024 alone. For some, that delay could mean a diagnosis comes only after the cancer has advanced — making it harder to treat, deadlier and more expensive.

“We are grateful to Congresswoman Sykes and staff from Congressman Michael Rulli’s office for participating in the conversations around the barriers to care their constituents face every day,” said Molly Guthrie, Vice President of Policy & Advocacy for Susan G. Komen. “For too many people, the high cost of breast imaging is a devastating roadblock to a breast cancer diagnosis. No one should have to choose between paying their bills and finding out if they have cancer.”

"With it being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we need to move the conversation from awareness to action. Access to breast cancer screening is only the first step. Patients also need timely follow-up imaging and care that may be recommended after an abnormal screening result. As breast radiologists, we know that finding a cancer early can make a profound difference, but that benefit is only realized when every patient can move through the diagnostic process without unnecessary delays. Timely screening, follow-up, and diagnosis is what ultimately saves the most lives," said Elizabeth Russ, MD, Radiology Department Chair, Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital.

Community-based and driven conversations like this roundtable are key to addressing healthcare gaps across the country. Komen is committed to continuing to work with stakeholders in identifying opportunities to advance policies that help people receive the right care at the right time.

Sound government action is critical for making the broad, systemic and lasting changes we need to save lives and create a world where no one dies from breast cancer. Learn more about Susan G. Komen’s Center for Public Policy at: https://www.komen.org/how-to-help/advocacy/center-for-public-policy/

About Susan G. Komen^®

Susan G. Komen^® is the world’s leading nonprofit breast cancer organization, working toward a future where no one dies from breast cancer. Komen has an unmatched, comprehensive 360-degree approach to fighting this disease across all fronts and supporting millions of people in the U.S. and in countries worldwide. We advocate for patients, drive research breakthroughs, improve access to high-quality care, offer direct patient support and empower people with trustworthy information. Founded by Nancy G. Brinker, who promised her sister, Susan G. Komen, that she would end the disease that claimed Suzy’s life, Komen remains committed to supporting those affected by breast cancer today, while tirelessly searching for tomorrow’s cures. Visit komen.org or call 1-877 GO KOMEN. Connect with us on social at www.komen.org/contact-us/follow-us/

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