The "Protecting Children from Cancer-Causing Radiation Act" aims to enhance the safety of pediatric patients undergoing diagnostic imaging by establishing specific protocols for healthcare providers. Under the new legislation, healthcare providers must assess the necessity of imaging, consider alternative methods that minimize radiation exposure, review the patient's imaging history to prevent duplicate tests, and communicate the benefits and risks of the imaging to the child's parent or legal guardian. The decision regarding the type of imaging is to be made by the healthcare provider in consultation with the parent or guardian, rather than being dictated by insurance providers.

Additionally, the bill mandates that all health insurance policies in South Carolina must cover pediatric diagnostic imaging as recommended by healthcare providers. Insurers that violate this requirement or deny claims for such imaging may face administrative penalties. The act also ensures that pediatric diagnostic imaging is covered under Medicaid and Medicare for eligible patients, thereby reinforcing the commitment to protect children from unnecessary radiation exposure while ensuring access to necessary medical services.

Statutes affected:
12/10/2025: 44-7-387
Latest Version: 44-7-387