Rhode Island House Bill H7276

Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/26
• Refer: 1/23/26

Caption

Prohibits an insurance company from imposing any cost-sharing requirements for any diagnostic or supplemental breast examinations.

Impact

If enacted, H7276 will significantly alter the landscape of health insurance policies concerning breast health. It aims to increase access to preventative care related to breast cancer, directly impacting numerous patients who require these screenings, particularly those with heightened risk factors due to personal or family medical history. The bill's provisions will apply to all group health plans and individual health insurance coverage, ensuring broad compliance across the insurance industry in the state.

Summary

House Bill H7276 addresses a critical aspect of healthcare access by mandating that insurance providers cannot impose any cost-sharing requirements for diagnostic and supplemental breast examinations. This includes various forms of medically necessary examinations such as mammography and breast ultrasound. The intent behind this legislation is to ensure that individuals seeking these examinations can do so without the financial burden of deductibles, copayments, or coinsurance, which can often deter patients from pursuing necessary health screenings.

Contention

While the bill is largely supported by advocacy groups focused on women's health and preventative care, it may face opposition from insurance companies concerned about the economic implications of mandated no-cost coverage. These companies may argue that stripping cost-sharing can lead to increased premiums across the board, potentially impacting other areas of healthcare funding. Discussions around the bill may also reflect broader debates regarding healthcare affordability and access to preventative services.