Local Lawmaker's Bill Expands Cost-Free Diagnostic Breast Imaging

Gov. Josh Shapiro, a Democrat, signed legislation into law on Monday that eliminates cost-sharing for diagnostic breast imaging under state-regulated health insurance plans.

The bill, introduced by State Sen. Frank Farry, a Republican from Lower Bucks County, builds on previous efforts to make sure Pennsylvanians can receive follow-up diagnostic care without facing prohibitive out-of-pocket costs, according to his office.

Senate Bill 88 repeals existing provisions that prevented many state residents from receiving timely diagnostic imaging after an abnormal screening. The barrier disproportionately affected those who could not afford the costly testing, delaying critical diagnoses.

"Today is an unbelievable milestone in our fight against breast cancer in Pennsylvania," Farry said.

The lawmaker called the bill a "major advancement in cancer care and early detection efforts across Pennsylvania."

The legislation expands on Act 1 of 2023, which previously eliminated out-of-pocket costs for supplemental breast screening. The new law now ensures that follow-up procedures—including diagnostic mammograms, breast MRIs, and ultrasounds—are also covered without cost-sharing.

Farry said his motivation for introducing the bill was personal, noting his wife's experience with breast cancer highlighted how crucial timely access to imaging is for early detection and survival.

"My wife's journey made it clear that no patient should have to delay critical diagnostic imaging because of financial constraints," Farry stated. "Act 1 of 2023 was groundbreaking, but this law ensures we complete that work — so that from screening through diagnosis, Pennsylvanians have access to the care they need when they need it."

The proposal has received strong backing from leading advocacy groups, including the Susan G. Komen Foundation, the PA Breast Cancer Coalition, and the American Cancer Society, and is not opposed by insurers.

Farry recently received the PA Legislative Champion of 2025 Award from the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network.

"This award from the American Cancer Society only strengthens my resolve to continue working for patients and families across our commonwealth, and I am humbled to receive it," Farry said.

State Rep. Gina Curry, D-Delaware County, was cited as a key partner in advancing the legislation through the House and also achieved Legislative Champion status.

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