By Kathy Kennedy
State Rep., R-119
Kathy Kennedy
It may come as a surprise to many, but in Connecticut one in eight women will at some point in their lives be diagnosed with breast cancer.
That is why I cosponsored and supported legislation this year expanding a law to cover diagnostic breast cancer testing, as well as other important related coverages for those not insured by either individual or group health insurance plans.
We know one thing to be true when it comes to the fight against breast cancer: early detection is essential in beating this cancer. To this day, patients often delay diagnostic screening because their insurance either does not cover it or there are prohibitive out-of-pocket deductibles for the procedure.
The legislation, Senate Bill 358, An Act Concerning Required Health Insurance Coverage for Breast Health Benefits, expands insurance coverage requirements for mammograms, ultrasounds and magnetic resonance imaging for breast screenings under certain commercial health insurance policies.
The bill also requires the policies to cover certain procedures related to breast cancer treatment, including breast biopsies; certain prophylactic mastectomies; and breast reconstruction surgery, subject to certain conditions.
Additionally, the bill requires these health insurance policies to cover the following services related to the testing and treatment of ovarian cancer: ovarian cancer screening and treatment, including coverage for genetic testing for insureds with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer; routine screenings; CA-125 monitoring subsequent to treatment; and genetic testing of BRCA1, BRCA2 and other gene variants that increase a person’s risk for breast, ovarian or other gynecological cancers.
It makes no sense not to cover these screenings, considering prevention is the most humane and cost-effective course of treatment. The law will provide for no out-of-pocket costs, no having to meet outrageous deductibles, co-pays, co-insurance or cost-sharing. There will be no financial barriers for anyone to go back and get essential follow-up diagnostic testing for a definitive answer. This bill will save lives and money by extending access to early-stage detection.
As always, please contact me should you have any questions about this important issue or concerns on any other topics relating to state government at Kathy.Kennedy@housegop.ct.gov or at 800-842-1423.