New York Assembly Bill A01718

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/14/25
• Refer: 1/14/25
• Refer: 1/7/26

Caption

Establishes the "tick borne illness treatment and education act"; requires health insurers to provide coverage for long term medical care for Lyme disease and other tick borne related pathogens.

Summary

Bill A01718, known as the "tick borne illness treatment and education act of 2025," mandates that all health insurance policies issued in New York provide comprehensive coverage for the treatment of Lyme disease and other tick-borne pathogens. This includes coverage for various treatment modalities such as intravenous and oral antibiotic therapies, as long as they are recommended by a licensed physician in New York. The bill aims to ensure that patients suffering from these illnesses have access to necessary medical care without financial barriers. The bill amends existing sections of the New York insurance law, specifically targeting accident and health insurance policies, group or blanket policies, and medical expense indemnity corporations. By requiring insurers to cover all costs associated with the treatment of Lyme disease, the legislation seeks to address the growing concerns over the prevalence of tick-borne illnesses and the adequacy of current health insurance coverage for such conditions. The impact of this legislation is significant as it alters the landscape of health insurance in New York, potentially increasing the financial obligations of insurers while providing essential health benefits to affected individuals. This could lead to broader discussions about the implications for insurance premiums and the overall healthcare system in the state, as insurers may adjust their policies in response to the new requirements. Sentiment surrounding the bill appears to be generally supportive, as it addresses a pressing health issue that affects many residents. However, there may be concerns regarding the financial implications for insurance providers and how this could affect policyholders in terms of premium rates. The bill has not yet been voted on, and discussions in committee have yet to be documented, leaving room for further debate and input from various stakeholders.

Impact

The bill will require all health insurers in New York to provide coverage for the treatment of Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses. This change is expected to enhance access to necessary medical treatments for patients, potentially improving health outcomes. However, it may also lead to increased costs for insurance companies, which could result in higher premiums for policyholders as insurers adjust to the new coverage mandates.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around Bill A01718 is supportive, particularly among advocates for Lyme disease awareness and treatment. Stakeholders recognize the importance of ensuring that patients have access to necessary medical care. However, there are concerns from insurance providers regarding the potential financial impact of the mandated coverage, which could lead to increased premiums for consumers.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise between health insurers and patient advocacy groups. Insurers may argue that the required coverage could lead to increased costs and higher premiums, while advocates for Lyme disease patients emphasize the need for comprehensive treatment options to address the growing prevalence of tick-borne illnesses. The balance between ensuring adequate patient care and managing insurance costs will likely be a focal point of discussions as the bill progresses.