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Kansas Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt testified in support of Senate Bill 409, a proposal from her office aimed at removing out-of-pocket costs for certain breast cancer screening tests. The bill would apply to supplemental and diagnostic services such as MRIs, ultrasounds, and diagnostic mammograms.

These follow-up tests are often ordered when a standard mammogram does not provide clear results. This can happen because of abnormal findings or dense breast tissue, which affects nearly half of women over the age of 40.

SB 409 would remove cost-sharing requirements, meaning patients would not have to pay copays, deductibles, or other out-of-pocket costs if their insurance plan already covers these imaging services. Supporters say the change would help ensure cost does not delay needed care.

“As a breast cancer survivor, early detection saved my life, but in so many cases additional screening tools are needed to find suspicious areas,” said Kansas Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt. “No matter the reason – be it abnormalities, dense breast tissue, or other concerns – Kansans should not have to pay higher out-of-pocket costs for these screenings.”

The bill was heard by the Senate Committee on Financial Institutions and Insurance. The hearing comes ahead of the Susan G. Komen Day of Action at the Capitol on Wednesday, February 4, where Schmidt is scheduled to speak.