Cigna Revises Policy, Will Cover 3D Mammography for Breast Cancer Screening

BLOOMFIELD, Conn.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Cigna (NYSE: CI) today revised its medical coverage policy for breast
cancer screening and will now cover three-dimensional (3D) mammography
for routine breast cancer screening. Under its previous policy, the
company covered 3D mammography for diagnostic purposes, but not for
routine screening.

The policy had been based on guidance from the U.S. Preventive Services
Task Force (USPSTF), which said there was insufficient evidence to
determine that 3D mammography is clinically superior to traditional
mammography for breast cancer screening. Cigna routinely covers
preventive services that earn an “A” or “B” rating from the USPSTF,
which 3D mammography for screening did not have (it was rated “I”).

The company has changed its 3D mammography coverage policy based on more
recent guidance from the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), a
not-for-profit alliance of leading cancer centers that sets standards
for high-quality cancer care.

Cigna’s coverage policies for medications, medical procedures and
medical devices are based on an extensive examination of peer-reviewed
medical and scientific studies, medical journal articles and other
scientific evidence, as well as guidelines from professional medical
societies. Policies are reviewed regularly and are changed based on new
evidence and new guidance.

“We are always open to change based on new scientific evidence or new
guidance from respected non-commercial organizations like the NCCN,”
said Julie Kessel, M.D., Cigna’s senior medical director who oversees
medical coverage policy. “We have a responsibility to our customers and
clients to ensure that the medical treatments, tests and procedures
they’re paying for have proven clinical value and will help improve
their health and well-being. That’s a responsibility that we don’t take
lightly.”

Cigna’s new coverage policy applies to 3D mammography services provided
on and after August 23, 2016.

About Cigna

Cigna Corporation (NYSE: CI) is a global health service company
dedicated to helping people improve their health, well-being and sense
of security. All products and services are provided exclusively by or
through operating subsidiaries of Cigna Corporation, including
Connecticut General Life Insurance Company, Cigna Health and Life
Insurance Company, Life Insurance Company of North America and Cigna
Life Insurance Company of New York. Such products and services include
an integrated suite of health services, such as medical, dental,
behavioral health, pharmacy, vision, supplemental benefits, and other
related products including group life, accident and disability
insurance. Cigna maintains sales capability in 30 countries and
jurisdictions, and has more than 90 million customer relationships
throughout the world. To learn more about Cigna®, including links to
follow us on Facebook or Twitter, visit www.cigna.com.

Contacts

Cigna Corporation
Mark Slitt, 860-226-2092
mark.slitt@cigna.com