In response to reports questioning the effectiveness of mammography, the state health commissioner announced on Thursday that Rhode Island law still requires health insurers to pay for mammograms.

Earlier this week, the federal Preventive Services Task Force said it no longer recommends routine screening for women ages 40 to 49.

But Rhode Island still requires health insurers to provide coverage for annual mammograms for women 40 and older. It also requires coverage for two mammograms per year when recommended by a physician for women who have been treated for breast cancer or who are at high risk of developing breast cancer.

Rhode Island law is based on guidelines issued by the American Cancer Society, which, in response to the task force’s report, affirmed its recommendation for annual screenings for women 40 and older. The Cancer Society, after conducting its own review of mammogram data, concluded that the exams produce some false alarms, lead to some unnecessary treatments and miss some cancers, but still saves lives.

Rhode Island’s coverage requirements apply to fully insured group health plans and individual health insurance policies. Federal law exempts self-funded group health insurance plans.

The commissioner urges anyone with questions to contact their benefits administrator.

Journal Staff