The bill H.685, introduced by Representative Krasnow, aims to mandate health insurance coverage for scalp cooling systems used during cancer chemotherapy treatments. The proposed amendment to 8 V.S.A. § 4095d includes new provisions that require health insurance plans to cover these scalp cooling systems, which are defined as devices designed to cool the human scalp to prevent or reduce hair loss during chemotherapy. This coverage is intended to ensure that patients undergoing chemotherapy have access to necessary treatments that can mitigate one of the common side effects of cancer treatment.

Additionally, the bill specifies that the new provisions will take effect on January 1, 2027, and will apply to all health insurance plans issued or renewed on or after that date, but no later than January 1, 2028. This timeline allows for a transition period for health insurers to comply with the new coverage requirements. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance the quality of life for cancer patients by addressing the issue of hair loss associated with chemotherapy.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 8-4095d