The bill amends the Pennsylvania Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Screening Act to include colorectal cancer screening services alongside breast and cervical cancer screenings. The short title of the act is updated to the "Pennsylvania Breast, Colorectal and Cervical Cancer Early Screening Act." New definitions are added, including a detailed description of "colorectal cancer screening," which encompasses various screening procedures such as colonoscopy and fecal tests. The eligibility criteria for the program are also expanded to include individuals aged 45 and older for colorectal screenings, as well as those aged 40 to 49 for breast and cervical screenings.
Additionally, the bill modifies the program's administration to target residents of Pennsylvania who are at high risk for these cancers, rather than solely focusing on women. The requirement for annual screenings is replaced with a provision for screenings at intervals recommended by clinical practice guidelines based on age and sex. The income eligibility threshold remains at 250% of the Federal poverty level, and individuals must lack health insurance coverage for the specified screenings to qualify for the program. The act is set to take effect in 60 days.
Statutes/Laws affected: Printer's No. 1918 (Jun 16, 2025): P.L.407, No.74