HRSA Updates Breast Cancer Screening for Women at Average Risk Guideline

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) finalized its proposal for the Breast Cancer Screening for Women at Average Risk guideline. This publication follows the HRSA request for public comment released in October.

The revised guideline includes the addition of subsequent imaging/testing that may be indicated for women to complete the screening process for malignancies following initial screening mammography. The American College of Radiology® (ACR®) supported this proposal in a comment letter to the Women's Preventive Services Initiative in November. HRSA-recommended preventive services are required by the Affordable Care Act to be covered without cost-sharing by certain group health plans and health insurance issuers.

The revised guideline states: “The Women's Preventive Services Initiative recommends that women at average risk of breast cancer initiate mammography screening no earlier than age 40 years and no later than age 50 years. Screening mammography should occur at least biennially and as frequently as annually. Women may require additional imaging to complete the screening process or to address findings on the initial screening mammography. If additional imaging (e.g., magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound, mammography) and pathology evaluation are indicated, these services also are recommended to complete the screening process for malignancies. Screening should continue through at least age 74 years, and age alone should not be the basis for discontinuing screening. Women at increased risk also should undergo periodic mammography screening, however, recommendations for additional services are beyond the scope of this recommendation.”

For more information, contact Katie Grady, ACR Government Affairs Director.