MS HB485

Requires persons and entities providing mammography services to notify patients in writing when mammograms show dense breast tissue (defined as heterogeneously or extremely dense tissue per American College of Radiology standards).

Mandates specific notification text be included in the written summary sent to patients, explaining that dense breast tissue is common but can make cancer detection harder and may increase breast cancer risk.

Requires notification to advise patients to discuss with their healthcare provider whether supplemental tests beyond mammography may be appropriate based on individual risk factors.

Allows the State Department of Health to update the definition of dense breast tissue by regulation if new terms are adopted in revised national breast imaging guidelines after July 1, 2017.

Takes effect July 1, 2017.