Pennsylvania Health Secretary Michael Humphreys was awarded the Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Coalition’s (PBCC) Pink Ribbon Award for his department’s role in implementing Act 1 of 2023, the historic and comprehensive Breast Cancer Screening and Testing Act. He is the latest recipient of the award.
First Lady Lori Shapiro served as PBCC honorary chair and kicked off the annual awards ceremony.
“I am honored to serve as PBCC’s honorary president and advance the important work this organization does to protect Pennsylvania families,” said First Lady Shapiro. “Act 1 of 2023 was a huge achievement. For women at high risk of breast cancer, Act 1 means they don’t have to worry about the cost of a breast scan and can focus on their health, which is really It’s important.”
“PID is here to serve the public, and we are honored to receive this award,” said Secretary Humphries. “I have been fortunate to work with the PBCC to ensure that people know what Act 1 means for them so they can receive the maximum benefit under their insurance policy. We are extremely grateful to the staff at PID who are working tirelessly to ensure that consumers who need this test receive appropriate care and compensation at no cost.”
Pennsylvania first required insurance coverage for preventive breast cancer screenings in 1989, but the first law of 2023 eliminated all costs for annual supplemental breast cancer screenings for women at high risk for breast cancer. Screening may include MRI, plain MRI, and breast ultrasound. Act 1 also covers free BRCA-related genetic testing and counseling for high-risk individuals. Act 1 applies to commercial insurance contracts regulated by state law.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Although Act 1 only applies to individuals at high risk for breast cancer, PID encourages all women in Pennsylvania to schedule an annual mammogram. This life-saving test is available for free to women age 40 and older with commercial health plans when they use an in-network provider. Under federal law, preventive screening mammograms are available to Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries as well as individuals covered by self-pay plans.
