New state bill approved that would expand access to no-cost breast cancer screenings

Coming out of Harrisburg, the Senate Banking and Insurance Committee unanimously approved Senate Bill 88, an expansion to the groundbreaking Act 1 law that provided no-cost screenings for individuals at high risk of breast cancer. 

There are several steps to a breast cancer diagnosis, often with many hidden costs along the way. 

Typically, a clinical breast exam is performed, where a healthcare professional examines a patient to detect any abnormalities. Then, a patient might undergo an X-ray called a mammogram, which is a diagnostic screening.  After that, there are further supplemental screenings, such as ultrasounds or MRI’s to discern more information about the mass. The results of these images then determine if a patient needs a biopsy. 

While the Commonwealth's 2023 legislation currently covers supplemental screening, Senate Bill 88 would enable Pennsylvanians with state-regulated insurance policies to also obtain free diagnostic imaging. This includes mammograms, MRIs, and ultrasounds.

Sponsored by Senators Frank Farry (R-6) and President Pro Tempore Kim Ward (R-39), this bill would provide both high-risk and average-risk individuals critical information without financial barriers. Early detection of breast cancer gives women an estimated 99% five-year survival rate, according to the American Cancer Society. 

Sen. Sharif Street (D-3), of Philadelphia, is the Minority Party Chair of the committee that approved the bill. Sen. Anthony Williams (D-8), whose district covers parts of Philadelphia and Delaware Counties, also serves on this committee.

“Act 1 of 2023 was a landmark step forward – we broke down barriers and brought hope to thousands of women by making supplemental breast cancer screening and testing available at no cost,” said Sen. Ward. “But we know that screening is just one part of early detection, and far too many patients are still being hit with costs for the diagnostic imaging they need next. It’s time to finish what we started and make sure every woman has access to the full range of breast imaging, including diagnostic exams, without cost standing in the way.”

Sen. Farry shared how this bill is deeply personal to him as his wife has been undergoing chemotherapy to fight breast cancer for the past year and a half. “I’m proud to champion this legislation alongside Sen. Ward, my colleagues, and dedicated advocates to ensure more women get the care they need – because early detection saves lives.”

Both the Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Coalition (PBCC) and the American Cancer Society support Senate Bill 88. Insurance companies do not oppose the bill. After passing in committee, the bill waits for a full vote on the Senate floor. 

“In the fight against breast cancer, timely access to care isn’t a luxury, it’s a lifeline,” said PBCC President Pat Halpin-Murphy.