Hoffman Highlights Breast Cancer Awareness Month, New Law to Increase Access to Mammograms

BELLEVILLE, Ill. – In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, state Rep. Jay Hoffman, D-Swansea, is highlighting a new law that will expand insurance coverage for diagnostic mammograms.

“Early detection is vital to increasing the odds of survival of breast cancer,” said Hoffman. “When a medical professional deems that a follow-up diagnostic mammogram is necessary, patients should be able to seek the care they need without fear of racking up huge out-of-pocket costs.”

Hoffman supported Senate Bill 162, which was recently signed into law by Gov. J.B. Pritzker, and will expand preventative care to cover diagnostic mammograms, ensuring that there is no cost sharing or copayment for patients. Diagnostic mammograms are used as a follow-up to evaluate abnormalities seen or suspected on a screening mammogram. Currently, screening mammograms are considered preventative care, and are covered by all marketplace plans under the Affordable Care Act. Hoffman also supported a state budget that protects funding for the Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program (IBCCP), providing low-income women with free cancer screenings.

The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends that women ages 40 to 44 should consult their regular physician about their personal risk factors for breast cancer, which can include aging, alcohol consumption, family history, an inactive lifestyle and obesity. For women ages 45 to 54, the ACS recommends receiving an annual mammogram and that women older than 55 switch to receive mammograms every other year, unless a doctor recommends more frequent screening.

“Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths among women,” continued Hoffman. “I will continue working to build a stronger Illinois by ensuring access to affordable health care for families across the state.”

For more information, please call Rep. Hoffman’s constituent service office at 618-416-7407 or email RepJayHoffman@gmail.com.