The hearing was an attempt to clarify new recommendations on mammograms from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force that left women confused.

"We recognize the communication of our findings was poor,” said task force chairman Dr. Ned Colange.

Last month, the panel recommended against routine mammograms for women younger than 50, saying it's not worth subjecting patients to unnecessary radiation and biopsies. The panel also recommended against teaching women to do self-breast exams. Republicans claim the recommendations are based on cost, and will result in rationing, which Democrats and the panel deny.

"Cost played no role in our recommendations,” said task force vice chairwoman Dr. Diana Petitti.

"To say cost is not a factor in this is not honest, it's just not,” said Rep. Mike Rogers, R-Michigan.

The debate also focused on the health care reform bill.

"The 2,000-pound gorilla is the bill the House passed two weeks ago,” said Rep. Michael Burgess, R-Texas.

Under the health care reform bill, Burgess and others argued mammograms would not be considered essential services and would not be covered unless offered as a premium. Democrats deny the recommendations would interfere with a person getting a mammogram if she need one.

"That is offensive, just plain wrong,” said Rep. John Dingell, D-Michigan.

There were also questions about the panel's credibility, with some claims that the group is made up of a small number of government-appointed experts.

The American Cancer Society, to which many people look for guidance on cancer issues, says it will not change its recommendation that women over 40 have yearly mammograms.