Governor Kathy Hochul speaks at the City Hall meeting.
Governor Kathy Hochul’s Office/Mike Grohl
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On Tuesday, the first day of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Gov. Kathy Hochul signed legislation that expands insurance coverage for breast cancer screening and imaging tests and includes steps recommended by nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines for detecting breast cancer. did.
“Every woman in New York State should have access to a full range of coverage options for breast cancer screening and imaging tests that are key to early diagnosis and treatment,” Governor Hochul said. “This legislation will ensure that critical preventive services are available without financial constraints, saving lives and setting a new standard of care for New Yorkers.”
Hochul said the law, S.2465C/A.1696C, would change parts of the insurance law to require individual, group, and non-profit (including HMO) health insurance plans to cover breast cancer screening and diagnostic imaging. said.
He said the coverage would apply if recommended by a doctor based on nationally recognized clinical guidelines. Tests include diagnostic mammograms, breast ultrasounds and MRIs, the governor said.
He said the bill also makes clear that cost-sharing does not apply to these procedures unless they disqualify a health savings account under IRS guidelines.
The law defines “nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines” that include evidence-based standards developed by independent organizations or health professional associations using transparent methodologies and reporting structures.
“With the signing of this important bill, we can take an important step in the fight against breast cancer,” said State Sen. Roxanne J. Persaud, the Guyanese-born representative of Brooklyn’s 19th Senate District. .
“This expansion of insurance coverage for screening and imaging tests will empower individuals to prioritize their health at no cost and ensure that early detection becomes the norm, not a privilege,” she said. added. “I want to thank my colleague Congressman Hunter for joining me in this advocacy effort and Governor Hochul for signing this bill.”
“Expanding insurance coverage for breast cancer screening and imaging tests based on nationally recognized clinical guidelines will ensure that women across New York receive lifesaving early detection,” said Congresswoman Pamela J. Hunter. This is an important step towards increasing access to the
“This legislation, signed during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, removes financial barriers to critical diagnostic procedures such as mammography, ultrasounds and MRIs that are essential in the fight against breast cancer.
“I am proud to support this bill in the Legislature, and I would like to thank Governor Hochul and Senator Persaud for their leadership and support in making this bill a reality for women across the state.” she added.
