New Jersey Assembly Bill A3546

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/5/24
• Refer: 2/5/24
• Refer: 3/20/25

Caption

Requires insurers and SHBP to provide coverage for expenses incurred in screening for ovarian cancer.

Impact

The bill aims to enhance access to early detection and timely screening for ovarian cancer, which is particularly important for women with a family history or exhibiting symptoms of the disease. By ensuring that healthcare plans cover these screenings, the legislation intends to improve health outcomes and potentially save lives through earlier intervention. It obligates various health insurance entities operating in the state to comply with these requirements, creating a more standardized approach to women's health services.

Summary

Assembly Bill A3546 requires insurers, medical service corporations, and the State Health Benefits Program in New Jersey to provide coverage for medically necessary expenses incurred in screening for ovarian cancer. Specifically, the bill mandates coverage for women who are symptomatic or at risk of ovarian cancer, including essential diagnostic procedures such as an annual pelvic examination, ultrasounds, and blood tests for cancer markers like CA 125 levels. This legislation is crucial considering that ovarian cancer is a leading cause of cancer death among women in the United States.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the potential cost implications for insurance providers and the extent to which some may resist these mandates. While proponents argue that comprehensive coverage for ovarian cancer screening could lead to cost savings in treating advanced cancer cases, opponents may raise concerns about increased premiums that could arise from mandated coverage. Balancing the need for more extensive health coverage with the financial realities of providing such benefits may become a subject of legislative debate.