Connecticut House Bill HB05815

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/23
• Refer: 1/18/23

Caption

An Act Requiring Health Insurance Coverage For Screening And Diagnostic Colonoscopies.

Impact

If enacted, HB 05815 would have a significant impact on state law regarding health insurance policies. The bill aims to align insurance coverage with public health recommendations, enhancing access to preventive care. By requiring coverage for colonoscopies, the legislation could lead to increased screening rates, ultimately resulting in better health outcomes and potentially reducing long-term medical costs associated with untreated conditions. This aligns with broader efforts to improve health equity by ensuring that financial obstacles do not prevent individuals from receiving necessary medical attention.

Summary

House Bill 05815, introduced by Representative Borer, mandates that both individual and group health insurance policies must cover screening and diagnostic colonoscopies. This legislation seeks to enhance preventative healthcare measures by ensuring that all health plans within the state provide financial coverage for these important medical procedures, which are critical for the early detection of colorectal cancer and other gastrointestinal disorders. The primary goal of the bill is to reduce financial barriers for individuals seeking these essential screenings.

Contention

While the bill garners support from healthcare advocates and organizations focusing on cancer prevention, some concerns may arise regarding the overall costs to insurance providers and potential impacts on premiums. Opponents of similar measures often argue that mandating additional coverage requirements could lead to increased costs for insurers, which may, in turn, translate to higher premiums for consumers. Nonetheless, supporters argue that the health benefits and potential cost savings in prevention and early intervention far outweigh these concerns, creating a compelling case for passing the bill.