Tennessee House Bill HB2549

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/24
• Refer: 2/1/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8, Chapter 27 and Title 56, Chapter 7, relative to insurance coverage relating to fertility.

Impact

The bill significantly alters the landscape of healthcare coverage in Tennessee by specifically requiring insurance providers to include fertility preservation services in their plans. Prior to this bill, many patients undergoing cancer treatments faced the issue of infertility without sufficient support from their health insurance providers. By mandating coverage for these services, the legislation seeks to address gaps in healthcare access and provide crucial support for individuals navigating the challenges of cancer treatment and family planning.

Summary

House Bill 2549, known as the Tennessee Strong Families Act, is a legislative measure aimed at expanding insurance coverage for fertility preservation services for individuals facing infertility due to cancer treatments. The bill mandates that health carriers in Tennessee provide coverage for standard fertility services for patients whose cancer or treatment may lead to infertility. This requirement is set to take effect on January 1, 2025, ensuring that health plans issued or renewed after that date adhere to these new coverage standards.

Sentiment

General sentiment surrounding HB2549 appears to be supportive among advocates for women's health and reproductive rights. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step to ensure equitable healthcare for those affected by cancer and recognize the importance of enabling individuals to preserve their fertility during such a critical time. However, there may be some contention regarding insurance frameworks, particularly concerning the responsibilities of health carriers and potential cost implications for the insurance market.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the potential impact on employer-sponsored health plans, as the bill specifies that it does not apply to these plans, which could create disparities in coverage among different types of health insurance. Additionally, discussions may arise regarding the compliance of insurance providers with the guidelines established by recognized medical authorities, such as the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. This could lead to debates surrounding the adequacy and fairness of the provisions detailed in the act, particularly in reference to nonexperimental procedures and age restrictions imposed by health carriers.