Idaho lawmakers propose bill to mandate insurance coverage for breast MRIs for high-risk patients

In a pivotal meeting of the Senate Health & Welfare Committee on March 11, 2025, Idaho lawmakers gathered to discuss a pressing health issue that transcends political lines: access to breast cancer screening for high-risk individuals. The atmosphere was charged with urgency as representatives highlighted the critical need for enhanced imaging options, particularly for those with genetic predispositions or other risk factors.

Representative Healy opened the discussion by emphasizing the importance of early detection in combating breast cancer. She pointed out that while annual mammograms are beneficial, they often fail to identify all cases, particularly in high-risk patients. To address this gap, she and her colleagues are advocating for bipartisan legislation that would require private insurance companies to cover breast MRIs, a more advanced screening method that can detect cancers missed by traditional mammograms.

The statistics presented were stark. Idaho ranks last among all states for breast cancer screening, with one in three women aged 50 to 74 not up to date on their screenings. The financial burden is equally alarming, as Idahoans face some of the highest out-of-pocket expenses for breast cancer diagnostic testing in the nation. This reality has left many individuals either unable to afford necessary screenings or forced to pay thousands out of pocket.

Representative Brooke Green, who shared her personal journey as a two-time breast cancer survivor, underscored the urgency of the proposed legislation. She recounted her own experience of being diagnosed with breast cancer despite diligent screening, highlighting the inadequacy of existing imaging options for women with dense breast tissue. Green's testimony resonated deeply, as she called for legislative action to ensure that all Idahoans have access to the life-saving screenings they need.

The proposed bill aims to rectify these disparities by mandating coverage for supplemental breast cancer screenings, including MRIs and ultrasounds, for those at high risk. This legislative effort is not just about policy; it is about saving lives and ensuring that families do not face the devastating consequences of undetected breast cancer.

As the meeting progressed, medical professionals were invited to share their insights on the importance of comprehensive screening options. Their testimonies reinforced the need for legislative change, as they highlighted the critical role that advanced imaging plays in early detection and treatment.

The discussions at this meeting mark a significant step toward addressing a healthcare gap that affects countless Idahoans. With bipartisan support and a shared commitment to improving health outcomes, lawmakers are poised to take action that could transform the landscape of breast cancer screening in Idaho. As the committee deliberates, the hope remains that this legislation will pave the way for better access to essential healthcare services, ultimately saving lives across the state.