Connecticut House Bill HB05429

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/16/19
• Refer: 1/16/19

Caption

An Act Requiring Health Insurance Coverage For Mammograms For Certain Women At Increased Risk For Breast Cancer.

Impact

The bill, if enacted, would amend sections 38a-503 and 38a-530 of the general statutes. These amendments would require insurance companies to provide coverage for annual mammograms conducted on the recommendation of a licensed physician. By mandating coverage for high-risk women, the bill seeks to reduce financial barriers that might otherwise prevent these individuals from accessing necessary preventive services. This is expected to promote better health practices among a vulnerable demographic, fostering early detection and treatment of breast cancer.

Summary

House Bill 05429 is focused on enhancing health insurance coverage for women who are at an increased risk for breast cancer. The bill mandates that health insurance providers cover mammogram screenings for certain women, including those with personal or family histories of breast cancer, those with benign breast disease diagnosed through biopsy, and women aged thirty or older. This legislation aims to ensure that women who fall into these categories receive the appropriate preventive care to detect breast cancer early, potentially leading to better health outcomes.

Contention

One notable point of contention related to HB 05429 could revolve around the financial implications for insurance providers and how these requirements would affect policy premiums. While proponents argue that the long-term savings from early detection and treatment will outweigh the initial costs, opponents may raise concerns regarding the potential increase in insurance costs and the economic burden it may impose on families and insurers. Additionally, there could be discussions on the definition of 'increased risk' as it pertains to insurance coverage and the potential for differing interpretations among healthcare providers.