New Jersey Senate Bill S3517

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/26/23
• Refer: 1/26/23

Caption

Requires health insurers to cover self-measured blood pressure monitoring for subscribers with preeclampsia; requires health care professionals to provide home blood pressure monitor to pregnant patients diagnosed with preeclampsia.

Impact

This bill directly impacts state health laws by mandating coverage for home monitoring of blood pressure for specific diagnoses, thus broadening the responsibilities of health insurers. It obliges various healthcare providers, including hospitals and birthing centers, to not only distribute these monitors but also provide training for their proper use. The inclusion of a $1 million appropriation for reimbursements also places financial directives on the Department of Health, fostering accountability and supporting maternal healthcare improvements in the state.

Summary

S3517 is a legislative bill introduced in New Jersey aimed at improving health outcomes associated with preeclampsia by requiring health insurers to cover self-measured blood pressure monitoring. This bill mandates that healthcare providers supply validated home blood pressure monitors to patients diagnosed with preeclampsia or those who express concern over their blood pressure. The intent is to enhance early detection of high blood pressure conditions during and post-pregnancy, which can have serious implications for both maternal and fetal health.

Contention

While the bill aims to bolster maternal health, it may also face contention regarding its implementation and the burden it places on health insurers. Critics might argue that additional costs and mandates could lead to higher insurance premiums or complicate existing healthcare frameworks. Additionally, the effectiveness of home monitoring, especially in terms of tangible health outcomes, may be scrutinized, making the requirement of annual reporting on health statistics a focal point in evaluating the bill's actual impact.