Mississippi Senate Bill SB2666

Mississippi 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/22
• Refer: 1/17/22
• Failed: 2/1/22

Caption

Health insurance policies; require coverage of colorectal cancer screening.

Impact

The bill represents a proactive approach to public health by aiming to improve early detection of colorectal cancer, which in turn can reduce healthcare costs associated with late-stage treatment. It establishes clear insurance coverage requirements, which can potentially lead to higher screening rates. The inclusion of directives for managing out-of-pocket expenses emphasizes the intent to enhance access to these preventive services, particularly for populations that may otherwise have financial barriers to screening.

Summary

Senate Bill 2666 mandates that health insurance policies in Mississippi cover colorectal cancer examinations and laboratory tests for individuals aged 45 and older, as well as for individuals at high risk for the disease. This legislation is significant given that colorectal cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death in the state, and early screening can greatly reduce mortality rates. The bill specifically requires coverage for yearly colonoscopies for high-risk individuals, reflective of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force's recommendations for such screenings.

Contention

While the bill is generally supported as a public health measure, there may be concerns regarding the financial implications for insurance providers and the healthcare system at large. Some stakeholders might argue that mandated coverage could lead to increased premiums or budget constraints for insurers. Nevertheless, the public health benefits of reducing colorectal cancer mortality through early detection and treatment seem to outweigh these concerns, as expressed by health advocates during discussions surrounding the bill.