GUZMAN EFFORT TO EXPAND MAMMOGRAM ACCESS TO ALL AGES PASSES SENATE

The following information was released by the Illinois Senate Democrats:

State Senator Graciela Guzman's push to allow mammograms under all health insurance policies regardless of the person's age has passed the Senate.

"If a health care provider or a patient has a concern, there should not be an arbitrary age limit for proper care," said Guzman (D-Chicago). "Issues addressed sooner can lead to earlier detection of breast cancer and that will bring more effective treatment and better survival rates for those diagnosed."

Guzman's legislation would expand mammogram coverage to align with evidence-based clinical guidelines and the recommendations of a health care provider, including when medically appropriate for individuals under 35. Under the measure, mammograms would be covered for patients of any age when deemed necessary by a healthcare provider.

According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, except for skin cancers, breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in women. However, if it is detected while still in its earlier stages, breast cancer can be successfully treated. Routine mammograms and breast exams can detect cancer early and provide women with better treatment options and results.

In 2012, while planning what should have been one of the most joyful seasons of their life, Maureen Anderson was diagnosed with breast cancer. In an instant, the future she had envisioned was completely rewritten. While many of her peers were celebrating weddings, enjoying honeymoons, and beginning families, her life became consumed by surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation, and ultimately a hysterectomy. Milestones that many women naturally expect, including the opportunity to have children, were taken from her far too soon.

"Passing House Bill 5001 is not merely important, it is an absolute necessity for women across Illinois Access to early breast cancer screening can mean the difference between early intervention and life-altering devastation," said Anderson. "For individuals like me, the impact of this legislation is deeply personal. This bill is about more than screenings and insurance coverage. It is about giving women a chance. A chance for earlier detection, less invasive treatment, better outcomes, and the possibility of preserving the future they dream of before cancer has the opportunity to take it away."

"When it comes to health care coverage, insurance companies often emphasize profit over patients," said Guzman. "We have heard of instances where complications came up before the covered age and we cannot let those folks slip through the cracks."

House Bill 5001 passed the Senate Wednesday and heads to the House for concurrence.

Illinois has resources for those seeking mammograms and other exams through the Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program. This program offers free mammograms, breast exams, pelvic exams and Pap tests to those eligible.