Highmark Health has announced that as of January 1, all diagnostic tests and MRIs for breast cancer will be fully covered for members of its insurance plan. This move aims to remove financial barriers that have previously deterred women from getting necessary care. Dr. Matthew Miller, the director of breast imaging at AHN, noted, “The screen has always been covered, but this next step—diagnostic workup being completely covered—is a significant development.” Often, financial worries led women to skip initial tests, sometimes resulting in advanced diagnoses. “When they return a year later with advanced disease, we find ourselves asking, ‘Why didn’t you come back?’ Typically, they respond, ‘I didn’t want to pay a $300 co-pay,'” he explained. Miller emphasized that financial limitations shouldn’t obstruct access to breast care.
Recently, Governor Josh Shapiro signed Senate Bill 88, which mandates coverage for such diagnostic imaging services, with most insurance companies set to roll out similar plans later this year. Nevertheless, Highmark Health chose to step up ahead of schedule. “Highmark basically took the lead and said, ‘It’s time to act. We’ll implement this coverage effective January 1st,'” Miller remarked.
This initiative reflects a broader commitment by both Highmark Health and the Allegheny Health Network to enhance treatment accessibility through early detection. Miller added that anyone over 40 who hasn’t had a mammogram in the last year should seek one out. Patients can walk into mammography clinics at any of the eight AHN centers, which are open until noon daily. “When it comes to scheduling, we know life can be busy, so it can be tough to set a specific time. Sometimes, you just need to take half an hour and go,” he said.
