Pennsylvania Insurance Commissioner receives Pink Ribbon Award for Breast Cancer Screening efforts

HARRISBURG, PA, October 21, 2024 – The Pennsylvania Insurance Department (PID) announced that Insurance Commissioner Michael Humphreys is the latest recipient of the Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Coalition’s (PBCC) Pink Ribbon Award for the Department’s role in the implementation of Act 1 of 2023, a historic, comprehensive breast cancer screening and testing law.
The Department’s work to educate consumers about and implement this bipartisan, life-saving law closely aligns with the Shapiro Administration’s continued commitment to ensuring Pennsylvanians have access to free, essential preventive health services. First Lady Lori Shapiro served as Honorary PBCC Chair and kicked off the annual awards ceremony.
“I am honored to serve as the Honorary Chair of the PBCC and to help lift up the important work this group does to protect Pennsylvania families,” said First Lady Shapiro. “Act 1 of 2023 was a major accomplishment. For women at an increased risk for breast cancer, Act 1 means that they shouldn’t have to worry about the cost of a breast scan — they can focus on their health — and that truly matters.”
“PID is here to serve the public, and I am honored to receive this award,” said Commissioner Humphreys. “I’ve been fortunate to work with the PBCC to make sure that people know what Act 1 does for them so they can maximize the benefits under their insurance policy. I’m extremely grateful to the staff at PID, who have worked tirelessly to ensure that consumers who need this testing receive the care and coverage they deserve at no cost.”
Although Pennsylvania first mandated coverage for preventive breast cancer screenings in 1989, Act 1 of 2023 eliminated all costs associated with one supplemental breast cancer screening per year for women who are at increased risk for breast cancer. Screenings may include MRIs, abbreviated MRIs, and breast ultrasounds. Act 1 also covers BRCA-related genetic testing and counseling at no cost for high-risk individuals. Act 1 applies to commercial insurance policies that are regulated under state law.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Although Act 1 applies only to individuals at increased risk for breast cancer, PID encourages all Pennsylvania women to schedule their annual mammograms. This life-saving screening is free of charge for women over 40 years old with commercial health plans when using an in-network provider. Under federal law, preventive screening mammograms are also available for individuals covered by self-funded plans, as well as Medicare and Medicaid recipients.
Pennsylvanians with questions about their insurance should contact PID’s Consumer Services Bureau online or at 1-877-881-6388. Consumers who want to learn more about health insurance should visit the Department’s dedicated Health Insurance page.
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