Cancer screening; coverage; gene mutation
The bill aims to improve access to cancer prevention measures for individuals with a family history or personal history of certain types of cancer by ensuring they can obtain genetic testing without facing deductibles or coinsurance. By facilitating earlier detection and preventive interventions, the legislation may potentially reduce the long-term healthcare costs associated with untreated cancers. Moreover, it aligns with guidelines established by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, thus promoting standardized healthcare practices across the state.
House Bill 2649, titled the 'Donna Hicks Act,' seeks to amend various sections of the Arizona Revised Statutes to mandate coverage for genetic testing and counseling for cancer predisposition. Specifically, the bill requires hospital service and medical service corporations to provide coverage for genetic counseling, risk assessments, and testing for specific genetic mutations that are associated with increased cancer risks, including BRCA1 and BRCA2. The implementation date for these new coverage requirements is set for January 1, 2025.
While the bill has support from advocates for health equity and cancer prevention, there may be concerns about the implications for insurance costs. Opponents could argue that mandating such extensive coverage requirements could lead to increased insurance premiums or complications in policy provisions for health insurance companies. The legislation could also prompt discussions about the ethical considerations surrounding genetic information and its impacts on individuals' privacy and insurance coverage.