Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner signed legislation today at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge, IL, that will require insurance plans in the state to cover breast tomosynthesis, or 3D mammography.
“Too many Illinois families have been touched, in one way or another, by breast cancer,” said Governor Rauner. “I’m proud to sign this legislation because by improving early detection methods and requiring insurance plans to cover this cutting-edge screening tool, Illinois is at the forefront of the fight against breast cancer.”
Breast tomosynthesis is a form of breast cancer screening that is more effective than current methods. It uses a series of X-rays from different angles to create a 3-dimensional image for doctors.
“This bipartisan legislation signifies the commitment of the General Assembly to the fight against breast cancer and protecting women’s health,” said Rep. Michael McAuliffe (R-Chicago), sponsor of the legislation. “The best way to fight cancer is with early detection; I’m proud we’re taking this step that will expand women’s access to this important diagnostic tool.”
According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, breast cancer is the most common form among Illinois women.
“Early detection of breast cancer is key to survival and this new law offers women more options for detecting breast cancer,” said Illinois Department of Public Health Director Nirav D. Shah, M.D., J.D. “We encourage women to talk with their health care provider about 3D mammography to determine what would be best for them.”
The new law, Senate Bill 466, is effective immediately.