HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Senate today approved two measures to expand access to breast cancer screening tests with no out-of-pocket costs for people at high risk, said Senator Gene Yaw (R-23).
Breast cancer is the second-most common cancer in women in the United States after skin cancers, and early detection is the key to saving lives. The Senate approved the following bills:
Senate Bill 1225 requires MRI insurance coverage, with no out-of-pocket costs, for all individuals with high-risk factors such as a personal history of breast cancer, family history, dense breast tissue, a genetic predisposition or previous radiation therapy.
Senate Bill 1330 requires insurance coverage of all costs for genetic counseling and genetic testing for the BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutation if a person is diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer or has a family history of breast or ovarian cancer.
While testing positive for a gene mutation does not mean an individual will get cancer, it does mean they have a much higher risk of developing a hereditary cancer.
The two bills will be sent to the House of Representatives for consideration.
CONTACT:
Nick Troutman, Chief of Staff
& Director, Environmental Resources & Energy Committee
Office of State Senator Gene Yaw (R-23)
362 Main Capitol Building, Senate Box 203023
Harrisburg, PA 17120
T: (717) 787-3280
F: (717) 772-0575