Schmidt, Denson Announce Breast Cancer Screening Modernization Legislation

COLUMBUS – State Representatives Jean Schmidt (R-Loveland) and Sedrick Denson (D-Cincinnati) introduced House Bill 371, legislation to improve breast cancer screening through modernized technology.

H.B. 371 extends mammography coverage to include advanced screening with tomosynthesis (3D mammography). Furthermore, H.B. 371 requires Medicaid and commercial insurance plans to cover the cost of supplemental breast cancer screenings for adult women who have dense breast tissue or elevated risk for breast cancer. 

“1 in 8 women will experience breast cancer,” said Schmidt. “This legislation is a critical next step in the detection of breast cancer. Early diagnosis is vital to saving women’s lives.”

H.B. 371 will also update the patient notification letter guidelines for women who have been classified to have dense breast tissue. By updating this notification, women will be made aware of the risk associated with dense breast tissue as well as the supplemental screenings that can be vital to the early detection of breast cancer.

“The goal of this legislation is to provide access to advanced screening for breast cancer in Ohio,” said Ann Brown, MD, UC Health breast radiologist and Assistant Professor of Radiology at the UC College of Medicine. “We're excited to advocate for a lifesaving law like this because it would give women access to tests that can detect breast cancer earlier, when it is more easily treated. There are access-to-care issues in our community and many patients cannot afford to pay for such tests out-of-pocket. This will have an important impact for women with dense breasts and women who are at increased risk for developing breast cancer across our state.”

“I am honored to advocate for such an essential bill in the fight against breast cancer,” said Denson. “By increasing access and awareness, this legislation will ultimately save lives through early detection.”

“I look forward to working with Rep. Denson to get this legislation to the floor and passed in the House,” said Schmidt. “I hope to see companion legislation in the Senate and get this bill to the Governor’s desk. Ohio women cannot wait.”