Both major parties in Australia commit to funding MRI scans for breast cancer patients

The two major parties set to take part in Australia’s upcoming federal election have both committed to increase funding for MRI scans for women with breast cancer.

The Coalition, led by Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, is set to promise $32.6 million ($23.1 million USD) with a budget announcement in early April, according to a new report from the Guardian. Bill Shorten’s Labor Party, meanwhile, has indicated $47 million ($33.3 million USD) would go toward the cause if they win the election in May.

Shorten observed that such scans are already subsidized for MRI scans when men have prostate cancer, discussing the issue with the Guardian.

“As a result, thousands of women are being charged up to $1,500 in out-of-pocket costs for the scans used to diagnose their cancer, decide on treatment and ensure cancer does not return,” he said.

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Michael Walter
Michael Walter, Managing Editor

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.

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