Legislation Eliminates Financial Barriers to Critical Breast Imaging, Would Help Thousands Across Alabama Afford Care They Require

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

MONTGOMERY, Ala.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Susan G. Komen^®, the world’s leading breast cancer organization commends Representative Frances Holk-Jones (R-Foley) and Senator Linda Coleman-Madison (D-Birmingham) for introducing legislation to ensure equitable access to required diagnostic and supplemental breast imaging, by eliminating the financial barriers patients face in accessing needed breast cancer screening.

The exorbitant out-of-pocket costs associated with this critical breast imaging, 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 Alabamians 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 so that individuals can get the medically necessary breast imaging they need without having to endure financial burdens. This is a pivotal step toward reducing overall health care costs by enabling earlier detection, more timely treatment and better outcomes.”

Unfortunately, when a mammogram reveals an abnormality or an individual is at higher risk of breast cancer, diagnostic and supplemental imaging is required to complete their early detection process. HB 300, introduced by Rep. Holk-Jones, and SB 177, introduced by Sen. Coleman-Madison, eliminate the patient’s out-of-pocket costs for medically necessary diagnostic and supplemental breast imaging such as breast MRIs and ultrasounds.

“I’m proud to carry HB 300 in the Alabama House of Representatives because expanding access to breast cancer screening without out-of-pocket costs will save lives across our state. When we remove financial barriers to preventative care, we give Alabama women and their families the best chance to catch cancer early—when it’s most treatable,” said Rep. Holk-Jones. “This is about health, dignity, and fairness for every community in Alabama,”

“Early detection, intervention, and early prevention of breast cancer can mean the difference between long term medical care, chemotherapy, and higher medical costs. Alabama is one of only 20 states that has not enacted legislation that supports diagnostic screening when abnormalities are detected,’” said Sen. Coleman-Madison. “SB 177 would put the state of Alabama among those states that support women’s health. I am honored to offer this bill that will assist in improving the physical health for all women and encourage my colleagues in the legislature to support to pass SB 177.”

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. Another 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. By eliminating burdensome financial barriers to comprehensive preventive care, we can drive earlier detection, improve outcomes, reduce the overall costs to the health care system and create a healthier more productive workforce.

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/.