Delaware House Bill HB302

Delaware 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/11/24
• Engrossed: 5/7/24
• Enrolled: 6/20/24
• Refer: 5/7/24
• Passed: 10/28/24

Caption

An Act To Amend Title 18 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Prostate Cancer Screening.

Impact

The bill is intended to significantly impact state laws regarding health insurance by expanding coverage to include comprehensive prostate cancer screenings for men categorized at varying levels of risk. It specifically addresses disparities faced by African American men, who are statistically more likely to be diagnosed with and die from prostate cancer. Implementing this requirement will likely lead to increased early detection rates and better health outcomes within the community.

Summary

House Bill 302 aims to amend Title 18 of the Delaware Code to enhance prostate cancer screening coverage for men at high risk. It mandates that all group, blanket, and individual health insurance policies provide coverage for prostate screenings at no cost to the insured. The legislation notably includes various methods for prostate cancer detection, such as digital rectal exams and prostate-specific antigen tests. Coverage under this bill is structured to begin at different ages based on risk, aligning with the American Cancer Society's recommendations.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 302 appears to be supportive among healthcare advocates and legislators focusing on men's health issues. Proponents argue that the bill is a vital step towards addressing health inequities and ensuring that vulnerable populations receive necessary medical screenings. However, there is potential for contention regarding the financial implications for insurance providers and the overall healthcare system, as mandating coverage may lead to increased costs in premiums or adjustments in service provision.

Contention

Notable points of contention include discussions about how to balance the increased coverage with potential financial ramifications for health insurance companies. Skeptics may argue that while the intent is laudable, it could lead to higher premiums or reduced coverage in other areas to offset costs. Furthermore, the bill’s stipulation to provide no-cost screenings may require adjustments in existing policies which some insurers may resist, complicating its implementation.