Connecticut Senate Bill SB00135

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/19
• Refer: 1/18/19

Caption

An Act Requiring Health Insurance Coverage For Medical Foods For Persons Diagnosed With Phenylketonuria.

Impact

The implementation of SB00135 would have significant implications for state laws regarding health insurance coverage. By requiring that medical foods for PKU be insured, the bill supports public health initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for individuals with this condition. This move could standardize coverage across different health insurers, making it easier for families to access necessary dietary treatments without incurring exorbitant out-of-pocket costs. Furthermore, this legislation could set a precedent for future health care mandates related to other conditions requiring specialized dietary management.

Summary

SB00135, titled 'An Act Requiring Health Insurance Coverage For Medical Foods For Persons Diagnosed With Phenylketonuria,' aims to mandate health insurance providers to cover medical foods essential for individuals diagnosed with phenylketonuria (PKU). PKU is a rare genetic disorder that leads to a buildup of phenylalanine in the body, requiring specialized dietary management with medical foods to prevent severe health complications. The bill's introduction highlights the need to alleviate the financial burden on affected families by ensuring that these critical nutritional supplies are covered under their health insurance plans.

Contention

Discussions surrounding SB00135 may involve points of contention regarding the financial impact on insurance companies and the state’s healthcare budget. Critics might argue that mandatory coverage could lead to increased premiums for all policyholders as insurers adapt to the new regulations. Supporters, however, would counter that the long-term benefits of improved health outcomes and reduced medical costs associated with untreated PKU should outweigh the initial financial implications. Additionally, the bill could spark debates about the responsibilities of insurance providers in covering specialized treatments for rare medical conditions.