Schmidt Holds Press Conference on BEST Act

State Representative Jean Schmidt (R-Loveland) Thursday held a press conference at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center on the Breast Examination and Screening Transformation (BEST) Act, legislation to ensure that all Ohioans have access to the necessary screenings needed to detect breast cancer early. Schmidt is sponsoring the legislation alongside State Representative Josh Williams (R-Sylvania Twp.)

Building upon a measure from the previous general assembly to expand coverage of breast cancer screenings, this legislation will achieve the following:

Clarify the definitions of “supplemental screening” and “diagnostic screening” to ensure doctors and health plans correctly identify the type of screening, avoiding issues with payments;
Expand coverage to include diagnostic screenings, encouraging Ohioans to prioritize these exams in order to find out early if cancer is present; and
Ensure that there are no out-of-pocket costs for patients for these screenings, removing financial barriers for potentially life-saving exams.
 

“This legislation aims to help detect breast cancer early and reduce long-term healthcare costs for Ohioans,” said Schmidt. “Early detection of breast cancer saves lives.”

Schmidt was joined by Dr. Annie Brown, MD, FSBI and Michele Young, founder of the Pink Eraser Project.

“Breast cancer affects 1 in 8 women in their lifetime and financial barriers remain a major challenge - especially in our underserved and rural communities,” said Dr. Brown. “I see many patients who delay care simply because they can’t afford it. By eliminating cost-sharing in Ohio, this legislation could reduce delays in diagnosis, improve outcomes, and close critical gaps in breast cancer care. This bill is about more than reducing financial stress. It’s about giving every woman in Ohio the best possible chance to survive breast cancer.”

"In 2018, when I first learned that I had stage 4 breast cancer, I also learned why my diagnosis went undetected for years: mammograms often miss tumors in dense breasts like mine,” said Young. “I made a vow that I would use my voice to fight for those who have lost to a battle that should be no more. Although HB 371 became law in 2022, there are still women who cannot afford some life-saving screenings. That is why the BEST Act is critical. This bill means that there will never be another woman in Ohio whose cancer cannot be found early.” 

The legislation awaits a bill number and House committee assignment.