North Cincy News

State Representative Jean Schmidt (R-Loveland) held a press conference at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center to discuss the Breast Examination and Screening Transformation (BEST) Act. The proposed legislation aims to ensure that all Ohioans have access to necessary screenings for early detection of breast cancer. Schmidt is co-sponsoring the bill with State Representative Josh Williams (R-Sylvania Twp.).

The BEST Act builds on previous efforts to expand breast cancer screening coverage. It seeks to clarify definitions for "supplemental screening" and "diagnostic screening" to help doctors and health plans accurately identify the type of screening, which would prevent payment issues. Additionally, the act proposes expanding coverage to include diagnostic screenings and eliminating out-of-pocket costs for patients, thus removing financial barriers.

"This legislation aims to help detect breast cancer early and reduce long-term healthcare costs for Ohioans," said Schmidt. "Early detection of breast cancer saves lives."

Dr. Annie Brown, MD, FSBI, and Michele Young, founder of the Pink Eraser Project, joined Schmidt at the event.

"Breast cancer affects 1 in 8 women in their lifetime and financial barriers remain a major challenge - especially in our underserved and rural communities," stated Dr. Brown. She emphasized that by eliminating cost-sharing in Ohio, this legislation could reduce delays in diagnosis, improve outcomes, and close critical gaps in breast cancer care.

Michele Young shared her personal experience: "In 2018, when I first learned that I had stage 4 breast cancer, I also learned why my diagnosis went undetected for years: mammograms often miss tumors in dense breasts like mine." She highlighted the importance of the BEST Act by saying it ensures no woman in Ohio will face delayed detection due to financial constraints.

The legislation is pending a bill number and House committee assignment.