Breast density reporting legislation signed into law in New Mexico
New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has signed the state’s breast density reporting legislation into law.
The bill, HB 66, requires mammography providers to send all patients a notice that informs them of their breast density classification. If the patient has dense breasts, the notice they receive must include the following text:
Your mammogram indicates that you have dense breast tissue. Dense breast tissue is common and is not abnormal. However, dense breast tissue may make it harder to evaluate the results of your mammogram. It may also be associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. This information is being provided to raise your awareness and to inform your conversation with your health care provider. Together, you can decide if additional screening options may be right for you. A report of your results was sent to your health care provider.
This was one of 42 bills signed by the new governor, who took office on Jan. 1, 2019. Then-Gov. Susana Martinez vetoed similar legislation in 2017, though it was supported by both the New Mexico House of Representatives and the New Mexico Senate.
Michael has more than 18 years of experience as a professional writer and editor. He has written at length about cardiology, radiology, artificial intelligence and other key healthcare topics.