House Passes Schmidt's Breast Cancer Screening Bill

COLUMBUS – The Ohio House of Representatives today passed House Bill 371, legislation that advocates for increased breast cancer screening and coverage by broadening accessibility and emphasizing early detection. The bi-partisan bill, sponsored by State Representatives Jean Schmidt (R-Loveland) and Sedrick Denson (D-Cincinnati), was unanimously supported on the House floor.

“1 in 8 women will experience breast cancer, and this legislation is a crucial step in early detection and diagnosis,” said Schmidt. “I’m thrilled to see this extremely important bill that is vital to saving women’s lives pass the House today.”

H.B. 371 will accomplish the following:

• Updates the patient notification letter sent to women who are diagnosed with dense breasts that better explains the increased risks of breast cancer for women with dense breast tissue.
• Allow women of any age or risk factor to receive a yearly mammogram.
• Includes tomosynthesis, which is essentially a 3-D mammogram, in the definition of mammography.
• Expands coverage for supplemental breast cancer screenings for women who have been diagnosed with dense breasts or have a genetic or family history of breast cancer. These supplemental screenings include chest MRIs and ultrasounds. These exams are necessary for some women to determine whether or not breast cancer is present.

The bill had nearly 40 proponent testimonies submitted during the committee process. Schmidt noted that introducing this bill during October, Breast Cancer Awareness month, was extremely important and she encourages women everywhere to get their mammogram.

"The amount of support that was shown was unbelievable,” added Schmidt. “I’m so thankful to all of the women across Ohio –doctors, survivors, and especially my dear friend Michelle Young – who have all shared their stories and personal connections to this bill. I’m looking forward to continuing work on this life-saving legislation.”

H.B. 371 will now head to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.