The proposed bill aims to establish the Oral Health and Cancer Rights Act in West Virginia, mandating that all health benefit plans provide coverage for medically necessary dental procedures resulting from cancer treatments. This includes a wide range of services such as evaluations, examinations, patient education, laboratory assessments, and various treatments necessary for restoring functions related to eating, breathing, voice, speech, and swallowing. The bill specifies that these procedures must be billed using a designated billing modifier, "West Virginia Code 33-64-1," to signify eligibility for coverage.
Additionally, the bill outlines that the coverage requirements will take effect on July 1, 2026, and will apply to all health insurance contracts that are not exempt from the Affordable Care Act. The legislation emphasizes the importance of integrating oral health care into cancer treatment plans, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive care during their recovery process.
Statutes affected: Introduced Version: 33-64-1