This bill amends the Code of West Virginia by adding several new sections that mandate health benefit plans to provide coverage for oral health medical procedures necessary due to the side effects of cancer treatments. Specifically, it requires that any policy, plan, or contract issued or renewed on or after January 1, 2026, must cover a range of procedures related to oral health that arise from treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, biotherapy, pharmacology, immunotherapy, or radiation. The coverage includes evaluations, examinations, patient education, laboratory assessments, medications, treatments, restoration, rehabilitation, medical devices, and prostheses aimed at restoring functions associated with eating, breathing, voice, speech, and swallowing.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that one year after the implementation of these coverage requirements, the Public Employees Insurance Agency and the Bureau of Medical Services must report to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance regarding the costs associated with these changes. This legislative action aims to ensure that individuals undergoing cancer treatment receive comprehensive support for the oral health challenges that may arise as a consequence of their medical care.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 5-16-8b, 9-5-34, 33-15-24, 33-16-20, 33-24-15, 33-25-23, 33-25A-37
Committee Substitute: 5-16-8b, 9-5-34, 33-15-24, 33-16-20, 33-24-15, 33-25-23, 33-25A-37
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 5-16-8b, 9-5-34, 33-15-24, 33-16-20, 33-24-15, 33-25-23, 33-25A-37