This bill amends New Jersey law to require health insurance contracts to provide coverage for certain preventive services on a calendar year basis, specifically mandating that these services be offered without any cost-sharing. It applies to various health insurers, including hospital service corporations and individual health benefits plans, ensuring that preventive services recommended annually are covered at least once per calendar year without imposing any waiting period. The bill clarifies that a "calendar year" is defined as the 12-month period from January 1 to December 31, and it maintains existing requirements for coverage of preventive services rated "A" or "B" by the United States Preventive Services Task Force, as well as immunizations recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices.

Furthermore, the bill allows for coverage of preventive services provided by out-of-network providers if no in-network options are available and stipulates that coverage must begin one year after the relevant recommendation or guideline is issued. It aims to enhance access to preventive care by eliminating barriers that may prevent individuals from receiving necessary services. The act will take effect 90 days after enactment and will apply to policies or contracts issued or renewed thereafter.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 17:48-6, 17:48A-7, 17:48E-35.44, 17B:26-2.1, 17B:27-46.1, 17B:27A-7.27, 17B:27A-19.31, 26:2J-4.45, 52:14-17.29, 52:14-17.46.6