Oregon lawmakers OK bill to eliminate cost barriers for cervical cancer screening, follow-up care

SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Oregon House on Wednesday night passed SB 1527, legislation that prohibits deductibles, copayments and other out-of-pocket costs for cervical cancer screenings and needed follow-up examinations.

Representative Annessa Hartman (D-Gladstone/Oregon City), who publicly shared her Stage 3 cervical cancer diagnosis last year and her ongoing treatment, testified in support of the bill, according to a news release from the lawmakers who introduced and supported the measure..

“As I have learned, cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers out there,” said Rep. Hartman. “And yet, prevention only works when people have access to every step of care—not just the first test. Screening without affordable follow-up is not prevention. It’s a false sense of security.”

SB 1527 closes a gap in current health insurance coverage. While many plans cover an initial
Pap test, follow-up exams after an abnormal result can lead to unexpected bills. For many Oregonians, especially those with high deductibles or limited coverage, unexpected costs can delay or prevent lifesaving care.

“Oregon patients have been missing opportunities for early intervention, when their conditions could be treated and possibly cured,” said Senator Deb Patterson (D-Salem), a Chief Sponsor of the bill. “SB 1527 is a bipartisan bill that will help to prevent cancer and save people’s lives.”

Under SB 1527, insurers, the Public Employees’ Benefit Board, and the Oregon Educators Benefit Board must cover cervical cancer screenings and necessary follow-up examinations without cost-sharing, so patients are not forced to stop care because of cost.

Representative Emerson Levy (D-Central Oregon) described the measure as “a personal one for this legislative body,” noting that Oregon has the ability to end cervical cancer for our daughters’ generation. “I am proud to carry this bill on behalf of Rep. Hartman.”

Only 53.1% of women ages 25-44 are up to date on cervical cancer screenings, but that number
does not reflect those who begin screening but cannot afford the follow-up care that could save
their lives.

SB 1527 passed the House floor unanimously and now heads to the Governor’s desk for
signature