Bill expanding diagnostic mammography access vetoed by Governor
OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Melissa Provenzano, D-Tulsa, released the following statement after HB 1389 was vetoed by the Governor.
The bill adds contrast-enhanced mammograms and molecular breast imaging to the list of what a diagnostic examination for breast cancer may include.
“Yesterday, the Governor vetoed HB 1389, which sought to expand access to diagnostic mammograms for women across Oklahoma.
“Back in 2022, we passed legislation to cover diagnostic mammograms. This is the very next test that gets ordered when your doctor finds something on your annual screening mammogram. In the two years since, we've come to realize that not every woman has access to the same machines, depending on where you live in Oklahoma. I've also fielded call after call from women who say their insurance companies are pushing back on coverage, despite what the law says. In the simplest of terms, HB 1389 clarifies the language so no matter where you live–be it Guymon, Tulsa or Broken Bow, your access to care is there.
“This bill seeks to make sure every woman can get care, regardless of her zip code.
“1 in 8 women across America will be diagnosed with breast cancer. In Oklahoma, that number is closer to 1 in 6. Men can be diagnosed with breast cancer too, and this bill covers them, too.
“Yesterday, I was stunned and in disbelief. Now it's time to get to work.”
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