Requires health care professionals to order bi-lateral ultrasounds concurrently when ordering mammograms; requires insurers to cover concurrent mammograms and bi-lateral ultrasounds.
Impact
If enacted, A1945 will significantly alter the healthcare landscape in New Jersey by requiring insurers to cover ultrasound evaluations, MRIs, and three-dimensional mammograms alongside mammograms for at-risk patients. This legislation applies to all health plans currently in force and includes commercial insurers as well as state health benefit programs. The overarching goal is to consolidate screening methodologies to provide an advanced preventive care approach for women.
Summary
Assembly Bill A1945 mandates that health care providers must order bilateral ultrasounds concurrently when prescribing mammograms for women deemed at risk for breast cancer. This requirement extends to women with dense breast tissue, specific family histories, or other relevant risk factors. The bill aims to ensure that individuals at higher risk receive comprehensive screening to improve early detection and treatment outcomes for breast cancer.
Contention
There are notable points of contention regarding the cost implications of this bill. While proponents argue that it’s a necessary step towards better women's health care, critics may raise concerns regarding increased healthcare costs and the potential financial burden on insurance providers and state budgets. The requirement for comprehensive coverage may lead to debates on how additional costs will be managed and who ultimately bears the financial responsibility.
Carry Over
Requires health care professionals to order bi-lateral ultrasounds concurrently when ordering mammograms; requires insurers to cover concurrent mammograms and bi-lateral ultrasounds.
Same As
Requires health care professionals to order bi-lateral ultrasounds concurrently when ordering mammograms; requires insurers to cover concurrent mammograms and bi-lateral ultrasounds.
Same As
Requires health care professional to order bi-lateral ultrasounds concurrently when ordering mammograms; requires insurers to cover concurrent mammograms and bi-lateral ultrasounds.
Requires health care professional to order bi-lateral ultrasounds concurrently when ordering mammograms; requires insurers to cover concurrent mammograms and bi-lateral ultrasounds.