The enactment of HB3347 will represent a significant advancement in women's health coverage under Illinois law, providing essential preventive care specifically tailored to menopause. This aligns with broader healthcare trends aimed at enhancing access to specialized services for aging populations. By removing financial barriers, the bill encourages women to seek regular medical consultations related to menopause, potentially improving health outcomes and quality of life.
Summary
House Bill 3347 amends the Accident and Health Article of the Illinois Insurance Code to mandate that health insurance policies provide coverage for an annual menopause health visit. This coverage applies specifically to individuals aged 40 years and older and ensures that there are no cost-sharing requirements for such visits. This means that patients will not need to pay a deductible, coinsurance, or copayment for these health visits with a certified menopause practitioner, as recognized by the North American Menopause Society.
Contention
While proponents of HB3347 view it as a critical step towards ensuring comprehensive access to necessary healthcare for aging women, there may be concerns regarding the financial implications for insurance providers. Opponents might argue that mandated coverage for such visits could lead to increased insurance premiums. The lack of cost-sharing could also prompt debates about the sustainability of funding these services in the long term and how it fits into the broader context of healthcare reform.
Designates October of each year as "Menopause Awareness Month" October 11 of each year as "Perimenopause Day," and October 18 of each year as "Postmenopause Day" in New Jersey.
Expressing support for the recognition of October 2023, as "World Menopause Awareness Month" and expressing the sense of the House of Representatives regarding global awareness and access to care during the menopausal transition and post-menopause.