Legislation proposed to improve access to breast cancer imaging

Breast cancer organization Susan G. Komen is lauding proposed legislation that could provide access for more women to breast cancer imaging.

U.S. Representative Alma Hernandez (D-Tucson) has introduced HB 2684, which could remove financial barriers to imaging that can rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. The new law would eliminate out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental breast imaging (such as an MRI, ultrasound, and diagnostic mammograms) when medically necessary.

These exams can be extremely expensive and require people to pay high out-of-pocket costs -- all before more expensive treatment even begins, Komen said in a news release.

"This legislation can make an immediate impact for thousands of people who require diagnostic or supplemental breast imaging yet are unable to afford it and often forgo the tests," said vice president of policy and advocacy Molly Guthrie in the statement.