Provides that every policy which provides coverage for hospital, surgical or medical care or provides reimbursement for laboratory tests or diagnostic X-rays shall provide coverage for testing of familial dysautonomia, Canavan's disease and Tay-Sachs; provides that in order to maintain the confidentiality of persons tested, receipt of acknowledgement from the testing facility shall be deemed sufficient evidence of testing.
Summary
Bill A02476 amends the insurance law to require that all health insurance policies providing coverage for hospital, surgical, or medical care, as well as laboratory tests and diagnostic X-ray services, include coverage for testing for familial dysautonomia, Canavan's disease, and Tay-Sachs. The bill mandates that this coverage be included in all new policies from inception and in existing policies at their anniversary dates, subject to evidence of insurability. It also stipulates that an acknowledgment from the testing laboratory will suffice as proof of testing, ensuring confidentiality for individuals tested.
Impact
The bill will significantly impact health insurance coverage in New York by mandating that specific genetic tests be covered under all relevant insurance policies. This change aims to improve access to essential testing for hereditary conditions, thereby potentially increasing early diagnosis and treatment options for affected individuals and families. The amendments will necessitate updates to existing insurance policies and may influence insurance premiums and coverage options moving forward.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding Bill A02476 appears to be supportive, as it addresses important health issues related to genetic testing for serious conditions. However, there may be concerns regarding the implications for insurance costs and the administrative burden on insurance providers to implement these changes. The lack of recorded votes or committee discussions suggests that the bill has not yet faced significant opposition or debate.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise from insurance companies regarding the potential increase in costs associated with mandated coverage for these specific tests. Some stakeholders may argue about the financial implications for insurers and how it could affect policy premiums. Additionally, there could be discussions about the adequacy of evidence of insurability and the confidentiality measures in place for individuals undergoing testing.
Same As
Provides that every policy which provides coverage for hospital, surgical or medical care or provides reimbursement for laboratory tests or diagnostic X-rays shall provide coverage for testing of familial dysautonomia, Canavan's disease and Tay-Sachs; provides that in order to maintain the confidentiality of persons tested, receipt of acknowledgement from the testing facility shall be deemed sufficient evidence of testing.
Provides that every policy which provides coverage for hospital, surgical or medical care or provides reimbursement for laboratory tests or diagnostic X-rays shall provide coverage for testing of familial dysautonomia, Canavan's disease and Tay-Sachs; provides that in order to maintain the confidentiality of persons tested, receipt of acknowledgement from the testing facility shall be deemed sufficient evidence of testing.
Provides that every policy which provides coverage for hospital, surgical or medical care or provides reimbursement for laboratory tests or diagnostic X-rays shall provide coverage for testing of familial dysautonomia, Canavan's disease and Tay-Sachs; provides that in order to maintain the confidentiality of persons tested, receipt of acknowledgement from the testing facility shall be deemed sufficient evidence of testing.
Provides that every policy which provides coverage for hospital, surgical or medical care or provides reimbursement for laboratory tests or diagnostic X-rays shall provide coverage for testing of familial dysautonomia, Canavan's disease and Tay-Sachs; provides that in order to maintain the confidentiality of persons tested, receipt of acknowledgement from the testing facility shall be deemed sufficient evidence of testing.
Provides that every health insurance policy which provides coverage for hospital, surgical or medical care shall provide coverage for the standard diagnostic testing for ovarian cancer upon the recommendation of a physician; provides that such standard diagnostic testing shall include a pelvic examination, a sonogram and a CA 125 blood test and related laboratory and diagnostic services.
Authorizes the department of health to establish a program for familial dysautonomia, Canavan's and Tay-Sachs disease screening and counseling and to provide grants and to enter into contracts with public and non-profit private entities to assist in such program; provides that participation in such program shall be voluntary and all information shall be confidential.
Provides for mandatory health insurance coverage for coronary artery calcium diagnostic testing upon the recommendation of a health care provider; makes related provisions.
Provides that insurance policies which provide hospital, surgical or medical coverage shall provide coverage for hysterectomies; provides that such coverage shall include inpatient hospital coverage for a minimum period of seventy-two hours after surgery.
Provides that clinical laboratories may provide laboratory testing at the request of individuals, without a practitioner order or prescription, for certain types of cholesterol.