BUFFALO, N.Y. — A bill awaiting Gov. Kathy Hochul's signature would guarantee more coverage for breast cancer screenings in New York.
The measure would require mammograms, ultrasounds, and MRIs to be covered by high deductible health plans before a patient's deductible is met.
The Breast Cancer Network of Western New York says many people looking for savings, or due to poverty, choose these health plans. The nonprofit says patients don't get the screenings they need that could save lives, so that they can save money.
"It's going to help patients have peace of mind when they walk in the door, knowing that they're not going to be responsible for you know a crazy amount of money or a crazy bill," said Rachel Wallmeyer, program director of the Breast Cancer Network of Western New York.
"That already reduces the stress going into that exam or that screening whatever that may be because the emotions are high at that point. Maybe you have a symptom, and that's why you're going in to get screened."
Lawmakers cite research from the University of Rochester that shows 16% of women need additional screening beyond a mammogram.
For more information about the services The Breast Cancer Network of Western New York provides, visit their website, Facebook or Instagram page.