Requires that insurance companies provide coverage for surveillance tests for ovarian cancer of certain insured individuals

BILL NUMBER:S1306A

Title of bill

An act to amend the insurance law, in relation to providing coverage for surveillance tests for ovarian cancer

Purpose or general idea of bill

To require insurers to cover surveillance tests for ovarian cancer for female insureds who are at risk for this type of cancer

Summary of specific provisions

Subsection (i) of section 3216 of the insurance law is amended. Subsection (k) of section 3221 of the insurance law is amended by adding a new paragraph 19.

Section 4303 of the insurance law is amended by adding a new subsection (oo).

The amendments provide that every policy that provides medical, major medical or similar comprehensive type coverage shall provide coverage for surveillance tests for ovarian cancer for an insured who is at risk for ovarian cancer. An insured is deemed to be at risk if: she has a family history of one or more first degree relatives with ovarian cancer; three or more female relatives with breast cancer or non-polyposis colorectal cancer; she texts positive for BRCA 1 or BRCA 2 mutations. Surveillance tests for ovarian cancer shall mean annual screening for ovarian cancer using: CA-125 serum tumor maker testing; transvaginal ultrasound; and pelvic examination.

Justification

Ovarian cancer gives no warning signs and is very difficult to detect. Early detection through surveillance tests and treatment are the keys to stopping this deadly disease.

Prior legislative history

This bill was introduced in previous legislative sessions. 2011/2012 - S.6604 - Referred to Insurance

Fiscal implication for state and local governments

Minimal.

Effective date

This act shall take effect immediately and shall apply to any policy issued, renewed, or modified after such effective date.