A BILL for an Act to create and enact a new section to chapter 54-52.1 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to diagnostic breast examination and supplemental breast examination cost-sharing restrictions; to provide for a report to the legislative assembly; to provide for application; and to provide an expiration date.
HB1283 proposes to establish cost-sharing restrictions for diagnostic and supplemental breast examinations under health insurance plans in North Dakota. The bill defines both types of examinations and mandates that health insurance benefits cannot impose any out-of-pocket costs for these services for individuals enrolled in the plan. However, it includes a provision that allows for exceptions if adhering to these restrictions would jeopardize the eligibility of a health benefit plan as a qualified high-deductible health plan under federal law.
The bill also requires the Public Employees Retirement System to report to the legislative assembly regarding the effects of these cost-sharing restrictions on health insurance programs, including utilization and costs. This report is intended to inform future legislative decisions regarding the continuation of these restrictions beyond the initial expiration date of June 30, 2027, which is also stipulated in the bill. The application of the bill is limited to health benefits coverage beginning after June 30, 2025, and expiring on June 30, 2027.
If enacted, HB1283 would amend the North Dakota Century Code to provide specific protections for individuals seeking diagnostic and supplemental breast examinations, potentially increasing access to these important health services without the burden of cost-sharing. The bill's expiration date and the requirement for a follow-up report suggest that the legislature intends to evaluate the effectiveness and financial implications of these changes before making any long-term commitments.
The sentiment surrounding HB1283 appears to be mixed, as indicated by its failure to pass. While there may have been support for increasing access to breast examinations, concerns about the financial implications for health insurance plans and the potential impact on high-deductible health plans may have contributed to its rejection.
Notable points of contention include the potential financial impact on health insurance providers and the implications for high-deductible health plans. Some legislators may have expressed concerns that the cost-sharing restrictions could lead to increased premiums or limit the availability of certain health plans, while proponents likely emphasized the importance of accessible breast cancer screenings.