Per this article, citing lack of clinical evidence and radiation dose concerns, Cigna will no longer cover Breast Tomosynthesis exams, which generate 3D image sets, as of 15-Feb-2016.

Digital Breast Tomosynthesis (DBT) exams are often praised for their superior ability to provide effective imaging when diagnosing women with dense breasts.

Somewhat of a challenge for IT systems and staff due to the significant size of their data sets compared to the traditional 2D mammogram exams, adoption of DBT modalities has been rapid lately due to the generally accepted diagnostic benefits.

I can’t imagine that this lack of coverage will last.

For those wanting a description of the different between 2D (Mammogram) and 3D (Tomosynthesis) breast imaging, this article provides an overview in plain language.

Here is an RSNA article on the state-of-the-art for Breast Tomosynthesis.

And here is an article on the merits of Breast Tomosynthesis over traditional Mammography for detecting cancer.

And another on reducing recall rates.