New Breast Imaging Legislation to Help Thousands Across Pennsylvania

Susan G. Komen^® Applauds Bill Introduction, Urges Quick Passage

HARRISBURG, Pa.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Susan G. Komen^®, the world’s leading breast cancer organization commends Representative Gina Curry (D–Delaware) for working with Komen to ensure that everyone has equitable access to diagnostic and supplemental breast imaging, by eliminating the financial barriers patients face in accessing needed breast cancer screening.

In Pennsylvania, more than 13,650 people will be diagnosed with breast cancer and 1,800 are expected to die of the disease in 2025 alone. The exorbitant out-of-pocket costs associated with these critical breast imaging procedures, ranging from hundreds-to-thousands of dollars, often force individuals to make significant financial sacrifices or forego tests that can confirm or rule out cancer.

“Nobody should be forced to skip medical care that helps to detect breast cancer early because of the cost, yet thousands of Pennsylvanians are forced to make that decision every year,” said Molly Guthrie, Vice President of Policy and Advocacy at Susan G. Komen. “This bill will remove the financial barrier to diagnostic and supplemental imaging so that individuals can get the care they need without having to endure undue financial burden. This is a pivotal step toward equitable access to care, potentially saving lives by enabling earlier detection of the disease and treatment.”

HB 433, introduced by Rep. Curry, eliminates the patient out-of-pocket costs for medically necessary diagnostic and supplemental breast imaging such as breast MRIs and ultrasounds. Unfortunately, when a mammogram reveals an abnormality or an individual is at a higher risk of breast cancer, diagnostic and supplemental imaging is required to determine if the patient needs a biopsy. The high out-of-pocket costs for this imaging deters many individuals in Pennsylvania from receiving their recommended care, and as a result, breast cancer can be diagnosed at a later stage, when it is much deadlier and much more costly to treat.

"Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic breast imaging is not just a matter of healthcare—it's a matter of life and death. By removing financial barriers to critical follow-up tests, we ensure no one has to choose between their health and their finances, ultimately saving lives and reducing long-term healthcare costs for all,” said Representative Gina Curry.

A Komen-commissioned study found out-of-pockets costs for patients to range from $234 for a diagnostic mammogram to more than $1,000 for a breast MRI. Additionally, a recent study published in Radiology found that 1 in 5 patients said they would not go in for recommended follow-up imaging if they had to pay a deductible. This diagnostic or supplemental imaging is often crucial for individuals previously diagnosed with breast cancer or those considered high-risk. The high out-of-pocket cost creates inequities in essential care and imposes additional financial barriers for these patients.

About Susan G. Komen^®

Susan G. Komen^® is the world’s leading nonprofit breast cancer organization, working to save lives and end breast cancer forever. 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/.