SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Graciela Guzmán’s push to allow mammograms under all health insurance policies regardless of the person’s age has been signed into law by the governor.
“A cancer diagnosis is frightening enough without having to fight your insurance company first,” said Guzmán (D-Chicago). “When early detection can mean the difference between a treatable diagnosis and a life-threatening one, coverage should follow medical evidence, not arbitrary age limits. This law ensures that patients can get the care their providers know they need.”
Guzmán’s law will expand mammogram coverage to align with evidence-based clinical guidelines and the recommendations of a health care provider, including when medically appropriate for individuals under 35. Under the law, mammograms will be covered for patients of any age when deemed necessary by a healthcare provider.
According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, except for skin cancers, breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women, and early detection dramatically improves treatment options and survival. By ensuring medically necessary mammograms are covered regardless of age, Illinois is helping patients access care when it matters most.
In 2012, what should have been one of the happiest seasons of Maureen Anderson’s life became one of its hardest. Instead of planning her future, she was navigating surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation and ultimately a hysterectomy after being diagnosed with breast cancer. The diagnosis changed not only her health, but the future she had imagined for herself and her family.
“No one should have to spend precious time fighting an insurance company when they should be focused on their health,” said Guzmán. “This law removes one more barrier to early detection and gives more Illinoisans the opportunity to catch breast cancer before it’s too late.”
House Bill 5001 was signed into law on Friday.
Illinois has resources for those seeking mammograms and other exams through the Illinois Breast & Cervical Cancer Program. This program offers free mammograms, breast exams, pelvic exams and Pap tests to those eligible.
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