An Act Concerning Cost-sharing For Mammograms And Breast Ultrasounds.
Impact
This legislation modifies existing statutes related to health insurance, particularly those governing women's health coverage. By eliminating copayments and deductibles for mammograms and comprehensive ultrasound examinations, SB00158 seeks to remove financial barriers that might prevent women from seeking these critical screenings. Additionally, the requirement for insurance companies to provide breast density information aims to educate patients about their risks and the need for potential supplementary screenings.
Summary
SB00158 aims to enforce cost-sharing regulations for mammograms and breast ultrasounds, focusing on ensuring that women receive necessary screenings without the burden of out-of-pocket expenses. The bill mandates that health insurance policies must cover annual mammograms for women aged 40 and older, and baseline mammograms for those aged 35-39. In addition, it introduces comprehensive coverage for breast ultrasounds and MRIs under specific medical circumstances, promoting early detection of breast cancer through timely medical interventions.
Sentiment
The general sentiment around SB00158 appears to be supportive among women's health advocates and medical professionals, who see it as a crucial step toward enhancing accessibility to essential health services for women. Supporters praise the bill for prioritizing preventive health measures, which can lead to earlier diagnoses and better health outcomes. However, there may be some concerns raised by insurance providers about the implications of increased coverage responsibilities and costs resulting from the bill.
Contention
Although the overall sentiment is favorable, debates may arise around the feasibility of implementing such comprehensive coverage without additional costs being passed on to consumers or insurance companies. Some legislators may voice concerns about the bill's financial implications on insurance premiums and the potential for unintended consequences in light of the broader healthcare funding debate. Ensuring equitable access while balancing costs remains a key contention point.
Requires health care professionals to order bi-lateral ultrasounds concurrently when ordering mammograms; requires insurers to cover concurrent mammograms and bi-lateral ultrasounds.
Requires health care professionals to order bi-lateral ultrasounds concurrently when ordering mammograms; requires insurers to cover concurrent mammograms and bi-lateral ultrasounds.
Requires health care professional to order bi-lateral ultrasounds concurrently when ordering mammograms; requires insurers to cover concurrent mammograms and bi-lateral ultrasounds.
Requires health care professionals to order bi-lateral ultrasounds concurrently when ordering mammograms; requires insurers to cover concurrent mammograms and bilateral ultrasounds.