HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Insurance Department (PID) has been recognized for its pivotal role in enhancing breast cancer screening access, earning Insurance Commissioner Michael Humphreys the prestigious Pink Ribbon Award from the Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Coalition (PBCC). This accolade underscores the department’s work in implementing Act 1 of 2023, a landmark legislation aimed at providing life-saving screenings at no cost to women at increased risk for breast cancer.
The enactment of Act 1 represents a significant stride in preventive healthcare, eliminating financial barriers associated with supplemental breast cancer screenings for high-risk women. The comprehensive law mandates that these individuals receive annual screenings, including MRIs and ultrasounds, without incurring costs. Additionally, the act covers BRCA-related genetic testing and counseling, which are crucial for early detection and management of breast cancer risk.
Commissioner Humphreys expressed his gratitude for the recognition, stating, “PID is here to serve the public and I am honored to receive this award. I’ve been fortunate to work with the PBCC to make sure that people know what Act 1 does for them so they can maximize the benefits under their insurance policy.” This award not only highlights the department’s significant efforts but also reflects the commitment of its staff in ensuring Pennsylvanians benefit fully from these services.
First Lady Lori Shapiro, serving as the Honorary Chair at the PBCC awards ceremony, highlighted the societal impact of the legislation. “Act 1 of 2023 was a major accomplishment. For women at an increased risk for breast cancer, Act 1 means that they shouldn’t have to worry about the cost of a breast scan — they can focus on their health — and that truly matters,” she emphasized, reinforcing the administration’s dedication to public health.
Originally, Pennsylvania mandated preventive screening coverage in 1989, but the recent legislation builds on this by expanding access to critical screenings for those most at risk. Act 1 applies to commercial insurance policies regulated by state law, ensuring comprehensive coverage for those eligible.
As Breast Cancer Awareness Month unfolds, PID encourages all women in Pennsylvania to prioritize their health by scheduling their annual mammograms. These screenings are free for women over 40 with commercial health plans when conducted by in-network providers, aligning with federal provisions for those under self-funded plans, Medicare, and Medicaid.
The Pink Ribbon Award serves not just as a commendation of past efforts but as a catalyst for future advancements in healthcare access and preventive strategies, highlighting the ongoing collaboration between state agencies and health advocacy groups to protect and empower Pennsylvania families.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.