More women will be able to get necessary screening for breast and cervical cancer under a measure signed into law by Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels.

Senate Enrolled Act 554 requires Indiana's Breast and Cervical Cancer Program (BCCP) to submit a waiver to the federal government that, if approved, would make Indiana's BCCP less restrictive by allowing women to be screened by any provider for breast or cervical cancer. If cancer is diagnosed and patients meet income guidelines and other BCCP requirements, they would be allowed to enroll in Medicaid for treatment.

Previously, women could only receive treatment through Medicaid under the BCCP if they were screened by a participating BCCP provider.

The BCCP serves uninsured and underinsured low-income women who meet federal eligibility requirements and are between the ages of 40 and 64. The program provides free Pap tests, pelvic exams, clinical breast exams and mammograms. If cancer is found during routine screenings, subsequent treatment is covered under Medicaid.

Prior to Gov. Daniels signing the new measure, the BCCP only was able to screen 10 percent of the total women eligible for the program, in part, because not all Indiana counties have participating BCCP programs and limited funding.