# The Find It Early Act: What It Means for Breast Cancer Screening

This bill makes advanced breast cancer screening tests free for people at higher risk of developing breast cancer. Starting January 1, 2023, if you fall into certain risk categories, your health insurance—whether it's through your employer, Medicare, Medicaid, military coverage, or the VA—must cover additional breast imaging tests without charging you anything out of pocket.

The bill covers several types of screening and diagnostic imaging, including standard mammograms, 3D mammograms, ultrasounds, and MRI scans. Importantly, there's no limit on how often you can get these tests if your doctor determines you need them. The bill identifies two groups of people who qualify: those at increased risk of breast cancer (determined using established medical guidelines from organizations like the American College of Radiology or National Comprehensive Cancer Network) and those with dense breast tissue, which can make cancer harder to detect on regular mammograms. Additionally, anyone whose doctor determines they need extra screening based on factors like age, race, ethnicity, or family history also qualifies.

This applies across all major insurance programs. If you have private insurance through work, you're covered. Medicare beneficiaries get this coverage, including those in Medicare Advantage plans. Medicaid covers it in every state. Military families covered by TRICARE get these screenings at no cost, and veterans can access them through the VA without copayments. The key practical effect is that people who previously might have delayed or skipped additional screening tests due to cost can now get them without financial barriers, potentially catching breast cancer earlier when treatment is most effective.

Find It Early Act

DeLauro, Rosa L.

Find It Early Act This bill requires health insurance plans (including public health insurance programs) to cover screenings and diagnostic imaging (with no cost sharing and no limit on frequency) for individuals who are at an increased risk of breast cancer.