Senate Bill No. 84, introduced by Senator Myers, amends existing Louisiana law regarding health insurance coverage for prostate cancer screening. The bill expands coverage to include men aged 40 to 49 years, aligning with the guidelines from the National Comprehensive Cancer Network. It removes the previous requirement that screening be deemed "medically necessary and appropriate" and instead mandates coverage for this age group.

Additionally, the bill prohibits health coverage plans from imposing any cost-sharing amounts, including deductibles, coinsurance, or copayments, for cancer screening services. This change aims to ensure that men over the age of 40 can access necessary screenings without incurring out-of-pocket expenses. 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)