Breast Cancer Screening Bill to Take Effect

State Representative Jean Schmidt (R-Loveland) today announced that her legislation increasing breast cancer screening accessibility and early detection to patients will take effect Sept. 23. 

“Over the last year, Representative Denson and I have fought hard for this bill,” said Schmidt. “House Bill 371 gives women a better chance at surviving this cancer.”

Under this legislation, H.B. 371 allows women to receive coverage for one mammogram screening each year, regardless of their age or any risk factors, redefines the meaning of “mammogram” to include digital breast tomosynthesis, expands coverage for additional mammogram screening for women with dense breasts or high risks, and improves the wording of any written letter to women informing them of dense breasts.

The provisions including tomosynthesis will provide doctors with the best, most up-to-date technology available. By including tomosynthesis in the definition of a mammogram, women will have access to a 3-D image of their screening. This technology would also make chest MRIs and ultrasounds more accessible for any woman in need of supplemental screenings.

Schmidt’s efforts to improve breast cancer screenings have long been a part of her career as an elected official. In 2002, Schmidt passed legislation that required insurance companies to fairly cover the cost of mammograms for women. This most recent push with her joint sponsor State Representative Sedrick Denson (D-Cincinnati) began in September of 2021, and will be in effect just in time for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

“I could not be more grateful to Governor DeWine for signing this bill into law,” said Schmidt. “I look forward to seeing these life-saving changes come to fruition across the state.”