Women’s imaging encompasses many radiology procedures related to women and the diseases that are most prevalent to women such as breast cancer or gynecological issues. Mammogram, breast ultrasound, breast MRI and breast biopsy are the most commonly used procedures.
The new policy applies to all health plans across Pennsylvania, New York, West Virginia and Delaware, “removing financial barriers for essential breast cancer diagnostics.”
The group was recently asked to provide input on a new set of recommendations for image-guided biopsies of suspicious breast lesions—offering providers clarity on key clinical scenarios.
Published Friday in JAMA, scientists recently explored a risk-based mammography tactic that tailors regular imaging regimens to each individual’s danger of developing the disease.
In some cases, it may actually be more beneficial for this group of women to forego the extra scans, as they can lead to additional testing, costs and potentially delays in care.
"I am hoping that primary care physicians see that risks of screening are manageable, and the benefits are tremendous," said Dartmouth's Debra L. Monticciolo, MD.