The Women’s Health Package enacted in 2002 requires insurance companies and HMOs to cover annual mammograms for women over the age of 40, increasing the chances of early detection. But the measure did not stop insurance companies from charging women co-pays for their visits. That’s why Kevin Cahill supported a measure that would make mammograms even more accessible by eliminating any deductible or co-pay requirements for the procedure (A.7927; passed Assembly; awaiting Senate action).

Oddly enough, prior to undergoing a mammogram, not all women are given a clinical breast examination. It is estimated that 10 to 25 percent of palpable breast cancers are not visible with mammographies.

Given the importance of this procedure in detecting cancer, Assemblymember Cahill supported a new law that requires certified mammography technicians to inquire if and when a woman has had a clinical breast examination in order to ensure this vital step has not been left out (Ch. 515 of 2003).

Last year, Medicaid was expanded to provide treatment for women diagnosed with breast or cervical cancer through the Centers for Disease Control Early Detection and Prevention program. The successful program allowed women to go to their participating Healthy Women’s Partnership to be diagnosed, but a flaw in the law allows the Commissioner of Health to decide each woman’s scope of care.

That’s why Assemblymember Cahill sponsored a measure that would repeal the commissioner’s authority and provide full access to available care for every woman participating in the program (A.4519; passed Assembly; awaiting Senate action).