What will you learn?
1. Why doesn't Medicare cover additional diagnostic tests for women with dense breast tissue?
2. What are the financial consequences for women who have to cover the costs of these tests?
3. What actions are taken by doctors and patients in response to the current Medicare policy?
4.What does the "Find It Early Act" propose?
5. What changes in healthcare policy are needed to improve care for women with dense breast tissue?
The issue of lack of coverage by Medicare
Cindy Marshall, a 62-year-old resident of Los Angeles, like Joellen Sommer, regularly undergoes mammographic screenings for breast cancer prevention. This year, she was shocked to learn that additional tests, which her doctor deemed necessary due to her dense breast tissue, would not be covered by Medicare. The cost of these tests could reach up to $500, which is a significant financial burden for her.
Reactions from the medical community and patients
Doctors and their patients express frustration with current Medicare policies that do not account for the specificity of dense breast tissue, which may lead to delayed cancer diagnosis. For example, at the California Breast Center, they warn their patients about potential additional charges for tests that may be necessary for proper diagnosis.
Legal initiatives and their significance
In response to growing concerns, Representative Rosa DeLauro and Representative Brian Fitzpatrick have reintroduced the "Find It Early Act" legislation. This bill proposes that all health insurances cover the costs of all breast diagnostic tests, including advanced technologies like MRI, without additional costs for patients. This initiative aims to remove financial barriers that may discourage women from undergoing important tests.
The situation of Cindy Marshall and other women with dense breast tissue underscores the urgent need for changes in Medicare healthcare policy. Equal access to advanced diagnostic tests is crucial for early detection and treatment of breast cancer, which can significantly increase the chances of cure. The "Find It Early Act" proposal represents an important step towards ensuring that no woman is overlooked by the healthcare system.