New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A07944

Introduced
4/16/25  
Refer
4/16/25  

Caption

Ensures continuity of care for cancer patients during insurance contract negotiations by requiring insurance coverage and treatment continue until the conclusion of care.

Impact

The proposed legislation seeks to safeguard the interests of cancer patients, protecting them from potential lapses in care that can occur due to disputes between insurers and healthcare providers. Specifically, it ensures that cancer patients are not left without coverage during critical phases of their treatment lifecycle, particularly during contract negotiations. The law requires that insurers maintain coverage for treatments at the prior contractual rate, thus securing financial protection for patients while seeking optimal care.

Summary

Bill A07944, known as the 'Continuity of Cancer Care Act', aims to amend the insurance law and public health law in New York to ensure that cancer patients continue to receive necessary treatment during insurance contract negotiations. The bill mandates that if a patient is receiving treatment for cancer and their insurance provider cannot reach an agreement with the treatment provider, the insurance must continue to cover these treatments until the patient is deemed clinically stable. This is defined as remaining stable for ninety days following their treatment protocol or receiving maintenance treatment to prevent recurrence.

Contention

While the bill has been framed as a necessary protection for vulnerable patients, it also raises questions about the financial implications for insurance providers. Critics may argue about the potential for increased costs associated with extended obligations during negotiations. Furthermore, insurers could raise concerns regarding the definition of 'clinical stability' and whether this extends to all types of cancer treatments, which could lead to more complex regulatory compliance issues. The balance between patient protection and the sustainability of insurance practices will likely be a focal point of debates surrounding this legislation.

Companion Bills

NY S07987

Same As Ensures continuity of care for cancer patients during insurance contract negotiations by requiring insurance coverage and treatment continue until the conclusion of care.

Previously Filed As

NY S07987

Ensures continuity of care for cancer patients during insurance contract negotiations by requiring insurance coverage and treatment continue until the conclusion of care.

NY H0577

Continuity of Care in Health Insurance Contracts

NY S0114

Continuity of Care in Health Insurance Contracts

NY SB00445

An Act Concerning Patient Choice And Continuity Of Care During Health Insurance Contract Disputes.

NY S2455

Mandates insurance coverage for scalp cooling treatments for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy to prevent hair loss during chemotherapy treatments.

NY H7537

Mandates insurance coverage for scalp cooling treatments for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy to prevent hair loss during chemotherapy treatments.

NY H6158

Mandates insurance coverage for scalp cooling treatments for breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy to prevent hair loss during chemotherapy treatments.

NY S08265

Requires insurance coverage to backup devices for patients with cochlear implants during the initial implantation and for replacements and upgrades.

NY A06314

Requires insurance coverage to backup devices for patients with cochlear implants during the initial implantation and for replacements and upgrades.

NY A05444

Provides hospital, surgical and medical insurance coverage for perimenopausal and menopausal care and treatment.

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