Insurance coverage policies for supplemental screening exams vary by insurer and jurisdiction, often guided by clinical risk assessment, breast density, and evidence-based guidelines. At the time of this message, 36 states (and Washington D.C.) have some form of insurance coverage law for supplemental screening, but the specifics of each vary considerably. In some states, mandates require insurers to cover certain supplemental screenings without cost-sharing for eligible patients, while in others coverage may depend on medical necessity, prior authorization, or physician referral. The insurance coverage landscape is quite diverse and challenging for patients and providers to navigate. Variability in insurance policies creates barriers, including costs, inconsistent eligibility criteria, and confusion for both patients and providers. A Federal bill, the Find It Early Act, has been introduced which would ensure all health insurance plans cover screening and diagnostic breast imaging with no out-of-pocket costs for women with dense breasts or at higher risk for breast cancer. Importantly, this would also help mitigate confusion regarding coverage and diminish loopholes ensuring that all insurance programs cover the necessary imaging exams.

In Florida, SB 158 and HB 141 from the 2025 legislative session went into effect on 1/1/2026 prohibiting cost-sharing for diagnostic or supplemental breast imaging exams; this law specifically applies to the state's group insurance program only. Additional, more expansive legislation (SB 1494) was recently introduced by Senator Tracie Davis in January. The FRS Breast Imaging Committee worked with Senator Davis to refine the language in that bill. We appreciate the collaboration with the Senator to help optimize this legislation for Florida patients. Clear communication of coverage details and alignment between insurers, providers, and patients are essential to ensure appropriate access to these potentially life-saving imaging services.

I would like to personally thank Drs. Mori and Latour for their incredible generosity, everyone on our fundraising committee for their tireless efforts, and especially to all of you, the FRS members, for your charitable donations. This could not have happened without all of you! Thank you so much!

In other news, we recently hosted the FRS winter board of directors meeting virtually and had a productive session outlining the current and future efforts of the FRS. The program and registration for the summer FRS meeting in Orlando are now available. The new year may have barely started, but the summer meeting will be here before you know it. Please sign up!

Thank you for all you do for our patients and our profession! Wishing you a healthy and prosperous 2026!

A surprisingly low adoption rate of 10 to 20% isn’t because D&O lacks value; it’s because radiology groups often underestimate the type of risk they actually face. Several structural, cultural, and historical factors keep practices from purchasing coverage, even though the exposure is real and growing.

If any (or all!) of those resonated with you about your group, let’s discuss why your practice should consider purchasing a D&O policy.

Radiology groups are exposed to significant governance, HR, and fiduciary risks, yet many still operate under outdated assumptions about liability. D&O is one of the most cost‑effective protections a group can buy. The groups that carry it aren’t paranoid; they’re prepared. I highly encourage your group to assess its risk and reach out to your insurance broker to inquire about a policy to protect your business, your personal assets, and your peace of mind.

This year’s budget is looking tight as there are already several shortfalls in the budget because of actions taken at the federal level.

Last week our Senate President experienced health care firsthand as he was having stroke symptoms and was diagnosed with a blood clot in his lungs. Thankfully, he received excellent care at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital and Shands and is expected to be back in the Capitol next week. He expressed his thanks to all the medical caregivers who took such excellent care of him.

To date, the House and Senate are passing a small amount of bills and not agreeing on much.

Next week, SB 1494, by Senator Davis relating to insurance coverage for mammography screening, is up in Senate Banking & Insurance. The Breast Imaging Workgroup worked hard on the bill language and has signed off on this proposal. The residents will have an opportunity to see the bill move through its first committee stop.

On the special election front -

Jon Maples, who is running for Rep Caruso’s seat, won his Primary and the General election will be held March 24th.

Hillary Holley, who is running for Rep Tomkow’s seat, won her Primary and has an opponent she faces on March 24th in a General election.

Rep Josie Tomkow is finishing out the Session. She is running for Sen Jay Collins seat. She was unopposed in the Primary but faces an opponent in the General on March 24th.

The session is scheduled to end March 13th, but the rumors of overtime have already begun.

Hopefully, everyone is staying warm.

Best from very cold Tallahassee,

The FRS Educational Foundation just launched a fundraising campaign to match the generous donations of Dr. Kurt Mori and Dr. Emile Latour.

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