State Senator Mike Nozzolio strongly supported legislation (S1883A) that was enacted by the State Senate today requiring insurance companies to cover the cost of supplemental screening for women who are at greater risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer.

“Breast cancer is more treatable the earlier it is detected and it is crucial that we help ensure all women receive effective and accurate screening,” said Senator Nozzolio. “This legislation will help women receive more thorough testing and preventative measures that are necessary to save lives.”

The legislation would require insurance companies to cover Ultrasound screening, MRI examinations, and other screening tests as a follow up to a mammogram that reveals dense breast tissue, which is a significant risk factor for breast cancer. It would also require radiologists to include information on breast density and the availability of these additional screenings on every report they make to a  patient following a mammogram.

Senator Nozzolio has supported numerous efforts to help encourage early detection and regular breast cancer screening.  He worked to establish the digital mammography unit at Auburn Memorial Hospital and was instrumental in enacting legislation allowing New York State residents to designate a portion of their State income tax refund for breast cancer screening and research.