‘Shannon’s Law’ requires large group insurers in NY to cover mammograms for women ages 35-39
Press Release, Gov. Andrew Cuomo
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today signed legislation further strengthening women’s health care protections. The bill (S.3852-A/A.5502-A) requires large group insurers to cover medically necessary mammograms for women aged 35 to 39.
The legislation, known as “Shannon’s Law,” is named for Shannon Saturno of Babylon, Long Island, who was diagnosed with breast cancer at 28 years old and passed away at 31.
“We know that with cancer diagnoses, early detection is the best possible treatment. This administration has taken and will continue to take aggressive action to break down any barriers to breast cancer screenings for women across the state,” said Governor Cuomo. “By signing this legislation, we are taking another step to break down barriers to breast cancer screening and improve access to health care for all women in New York.”
Currently, many insurance companies are only required to cover annual mammogram screenings for women over the age of 40, but over 12,000 cases of breast cancer are detected annually are in women under the age of 40 and are oftentimes in later stages and more aggressive forms of cancer.
Shannon’s Law will require large group insurance companies to cover annual mammogram screenings for women aged 35 to 39 when medically necessary.
“We are continuing to double down on our efforts to expand access to potentially life-saving services,” said Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul. “We know mammograms and cancer screenings must be available for all New Yorkers, and this law will help to ensure coverage, early detection, and treatment. We are committed to promoting breast cancer screenings statewide and continuing to save lives.”
