ALBANY- Changes to health insurance coverage will expand covered services in New York as several key provisions of previously passed legislation take effect the first day of the new year.
Health insurers in the state will not be required to cover medically necessary EpiPens with annual out-of-pocket costs capped at $100. They also must expand coverage for breast cancer screening and diagnostic imaging and will be required to cover scalp cooling systems used during chemotherapy under a set of new laws.
“New Yorkers shouldn’t have to choose between putting food on the table or being able to afford life-saving medical devices and procedures,” Governor Kathy Hochul said in a statement. “These new laws will help ensure people can focus on their health without overwhelming financial stress.”
Under the new requirements, insurers in the individual and group markets, including HMOs and nonprofit plans, must cover EpiPens for emergency treatment of allergic reactions.
Another law expands insurance coverage for breast cancer screening and diagnostic imaging, including mammograms, ultrasounds and MRIs, when recommended by a physician under nationally recognized guidelines. State officials say the change aims to improve early detection of one of the most common cancers affecting women in New York.
The legislation also requires large-group health insurers to cover scalp cooling systems for patients undergoing chemotherapy. The systems, which can help reduce hair loss during treatment, can cost patients thousands of dollars without insurance coverage.
State officials said the changes are intended to make essential health care more affordable and accessible for New Yorkers across the state. The changes come amidst increasing costs for healthcare premiums both in New York and throughout the country.
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