State Representative Jean Schmidt presented sponsor testimony before the House Insurance Committee on Tuesday regarding the Breast Examination and Screening Transformation (BEST) Act. This legislation aims to provide all Ohioans with access to essential screenings for early breast cancer detection. Schmidt, representing Loveland, is co-sponsoring the bill with State Representative Josh Williams from Sylvania Township.
House Bill 271 seeks to clarify definitions of “supplemental screening” and “diagnostic screening” to ensure accurate identification by doctors and health plans, thereby avoiding payment issues. It also aims to expand coverage to include diagnostic screenings, encouraging Ohioans to prioritize these exams for early cancer detection. Additionally, the bill proposes eliminating out-of-pocket costs for patients undergoing these screenings, removing financial barriers that could impede access to potentially life-saving exams.
“Early detection is key in conquering cancer,” stated Schmidt during her testimony. “It is time for the barriers to be removed and encourage, not discourage, women and men to get these screenings.”
Schmidt previously advocated for House Bill 371 during the 134th General Assembly. Enacted into law in 2022, this measure expanded access to breast cancer screenings in Ohio and serves as a foundation for the current BEST Act.
House Bill 271 is pending further consideration by the House Insurance Committee.
