DAMOOSE LEADS SENATE EFFORT TO EXPAND ACCESS TO BREAST CANCER PREVENTION

The following information was released by the Michigan State Senate Republicans:

State Sen. John Damoose on Wednesday introduced legislation to improve access to preventive care for those who have been diagnosed with breast cancer or who are at risk.

"The advancements in screening and care in recent decades have demonstrated the drastic importance of early detection," said Damoose, R-Harbor Springs. "Even though much of the care surrounding cancer treatment is covered by health insurance, there are still significant associated costs that often force people to bypass or postpone the medical care they need."

Michigan law currently requires insurers to provide coverage for breast cancer screening mammography and other breast cancer-related services. However, patients can still face deductibles, copayments and other costs when additional testing is medically necessary.

Damoose's legislation, Senate Bill 1159, would require covered breast cancer services, including diagnostic mammograms, breast MRIs and breast ultrasounds, to be provided without deductibles or copayments. This would include supplemental examinations recommended because of an individual's personal or family medical history, increased breast cancer risk or dense breast tissue.

"A screening is meant to be the first step in determining if someone needs medical care, but far too often treatment stops there because people cannot afford the out-of-pocket costs associated with additional testing," Damoose said. "Removing these financial barriers will help Michigan residents receive timely follow-up care and increase the chances of detecting this horrible disease early and seeking the treatment they need."