A member of the Missouri House of Representatives recently introduced legislation that would increase access to supplemental breast imaging by eliminating out-of-pocket expenses for the exams.
On Jan. 4, Representative Brenda Shields introduced a proposal (HB 575) that would remove financial barriers for women who are recommended to undergo supplemental breast imaging, such as an MRI, CT or ultrasound, when the exams are deemed medically necessary.
Shields, who worked alongside the Susan G. Komen organization to develop the bill, maintains that, if enacted, the legislation would save lives.
“When the threat of breast cancer rears its head, women and their doctors need every tool available to for an accurate diagnosis,” Rep. Shields said in prepared remarks. “This bill will save lives by ensuring treatment can begin as early as possible.”
Molly Guthrie, Vice President of Policy and Advocacy at Susan G. Komen, applauded Shields for her advocacy on behalf of Komen, stating that the legislation would have an immediate impact for thousands of women who need supplemental imaging but cannot afford it.
“Everyone should be able to access the care they need and afford it, especially when it could mean the difference between a person’s life and death,” Guthrie stated.
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