The bill amends and reenacts R.S. 22:1060.14 and enacts R.S. 22:1060.12(7) and 1060.17, focusing on health insurance coverage for cancer treatment. It introduces a definition for "consensus statements," which are developed by an independent panel of experts and published in scientific journals, aimed at optimizing clinical care outcomes. The bill prohibits health coverage plans from denying prior authorization or payment for cancer-related procedures, pharmaceuticals, or diagnostic tests if they are recommended by nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines or consensus statements.

Additionally, the bill outlines enforcement provisions, allowing the commissioner to notify health insurance issuers of non-compliance and to issue cease and desist orders. Violations of these orders can result in monetary penalties, suspension or revocation of the issuer's operating authority, and injunctive relief. The provisions of this Act will apply to new policies or health coverage plans issued on or after January 1, 2025, and it will take effect upon the governor's signature or after the specified time period for bills to become law without signature.

Statutes affected:
SB58 Original: 22:15(A)
SB58 Engrossed:
SB58 Enrolled:
SB58 Act :