New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S07987

Introduced
5/15/25  
Refer
5/15/25  

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

This legislation is significant as it aims to protect cancer patients from potential interruptions in their treatment due to disputes between insurers and healthcare providers. By mandating that insurers continue to cover treatment at previous rates, the bill addresses concerns that patients could face lapses in essential care during vulnerable times. The bill outlines clear definitions of what constitutes a 'course of treatment' and 'clinical stability,' ensuring there is no ambiguity regarding patient rights to ongoing care during contract negotiations.

Summary

Bill S07987, known as the 'Continuity of Cancer Care Act,' seeks to amend existing insurance laws to ensure that cancer patients continue to receive necessary treatments during insurance contract negotiations. Under this bill, if a health insurer cannot reach an agreement with a healthcare provider while an insured is receiving cancer treatment, the insurer is required to maintain coverage at the rates specified in the previous contract. This coverage must last until the conclusion of the insured's entire treatment course and until they are determined clinically stable after treatment.

Contention

However, the bill has faced scrutiny and debate regarding its potential implications for the insurance market. Some critics argue that the requirement for insurers to continue coverage can lead to increased costs for insurers, which could ultimately translate into higher premiums for policyholders. Others raise concerns about whether this legislation could disincentivize insurers from negotiating rates with hospitals and oncologists, potentially affecting the overall healthcare landscape. Supporters of the bill counter that these measures are necessary to prioritize patient welfare and ensure uninterrupted access to critical cancer treatments.

Companion Bills

NY A07944

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 A07944

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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