Senate Bill No. SLS 26RS-201 aims to enhance health insurance coverage for prostate cancer screening in Louisiana. The bill amends R.S. 22:1028(B)(1) and (E) to require health coverage plans to provide screening for men aged 40 to 49 in accordance with the National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines, rather than only for men over 50 as previously stipulated. Additionally, the bill removes the requirement for screenings to be deemed "medically necessary and appropriate" for coverage to apply, thereby broadening access to these essential services.

Furthermore, the bill prohibits health coverage plans from imposing any cost-sharing amounts, including deductibles, coinsurance, or copayments, for prostate cancer screening services. This change aims to eliminate out-of-pocket expenses for patients seeking these screenings. The provisions of the bill will apply to new policies issued on or after January 1, 2027, with existing policies required to conform by their renewal date, but no later than January 1, 2028. The bill will take effect upon the governor's signature or after the designated period for gubernatorial action.

Statutes affected:
SB84 Original: 22:1028(B)(1)
SB84 Engrossed: 22:1028(B)(1)