SB22 Summary

• Alabama Department of Public Health must develop a standardized written summary in plain language explaining alternative breast cancer treatment methods (hormonal, radiological, chemotherapeutic, or surgical) and reconstruction options including implants and their risks.

• Physicians must provide the standardized summary to each breast cancer patient upon diagnosis, and hospitals performing mastectomy, lymph node dissection, or lumpectomy must also distribute the information.

• Summary must explain insurance coverage under Alabama law for mastectomy, lymph node dissection, lumpectomy, breast reconstruction, and second opinion coverage, and advise patients to review their health plans for specific coverage details.

• Physicians issuing mammography reports showing dense breast tissue must notify patients with a specific statement explaining that dense tissue may make cancer detection harder and may increase breast cancer risk, and recommend discussion with their doctor about additional screening.

• Act becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor.