How Geisinger Uses AI to Identify Patients at High Risk for Breast Cancer

October 31, 2025

Hospitals in Pennsylvania are increasingly using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to detect cancer and promote screenings for at-risk patients.

This week, Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center hosted an event with state health leaders to promote new developments in breast cancer screenings. Geisinger offers a pilot program, which advances breast cancer care by using AI to identify patients at highest risk and help them schedule an annual mammogram.

"AI enabled screening tools are a critical step towards improving early detection and saving the lives of our patients. AI can augment the clinician's experience and helps us better understand our patients' risk, helping better manage their health and wellness," said Ahmad Hanif, MD, division chief of hematology and oncology at Geisinger's Northeast Region.

Here’s what you need to know:

Better health through technology

A Geisinger primary care provider uses the AI modeling to identify patients who are overdue for a mammogram and at the highest risk.

The top 50 patients at-risk for breast cancer are flagged based on electronic health record details, such as preexisting conditions and family history. The model is HIPPA compliant, with care details only available to the health care providers. Geisinger’s Care Gaps team then follows up with patients by contacting them to discuss concerns and help schedule a mammogram.

Geisinger’s pilot program will conclude in December 2025, when insights will be shared to inform early detection services further and improve breast cancer outcomes.

Protecting the most vulnerable

Act 1 of 2023 requires insurers to cover preventive breast and ovarian cancer screenings at no cost for high-risk women under state-regulated insurance. Act 1 covers supplemental screening MRIs, ultrasounds, and breast cancer-related genetic testing and counseling. These services are at no cost to women at high risk of breast cancer who have individual, small group, and large group insurance plans.

Early detection, better odds

Health care providers, local advocates, and community members are promoting early screening, as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October. If found early, it can significantly increase the chance of successful treatment, reduce the need for therapies like chemotherapy and surgery, and lower the risk of dying from the disease.

“I encourage people to get their screening mammogram to ensure they have the best chance at being diagnosed at an early stage,” said Dr. Debra Bogen, Pennsylvania health secretary. "Innovative technologies, like the one being used at Geisinger, will continue to transform and improve medical care, including increasing screening rates for those at the highest risk.”

Additional information on breast cancer or free breast and cervical early detection services is available online.