WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HD 501

An Act concerning endometriosis screenings and access to treatment

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Chris Hendricks

Massachusetts bill requiring insurers to cover endometriosis screenings and treatments without patient cost-sharing to improve access and reduce diagnostic delays for a widespread condition.

0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HD 501

Legislative bill overview

HD 501 would require health insurance plans in Massachusetts to cover endometriosis screenings and related treatments without cost-sharing (copays, coinsurance, deductibles). The bill aims to improve access to diagnosis and care for a condition that affects roughly 10% of reproductive-age women and is often severely underdiagnosed.

Why is this important

Endometriosis causes significant pain and can lead to infertility, but diagnosis typically takes 7-10 years due to limited awareness and inconsistent screening practices. Removing financial barriers could enable earlier diagnosis, reduce disease progression, and improve quality of life for many Massachusetts residents. This also addresses documented disparities in care access, particularly for low-income individuals and communities of color.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurance cost impact: Insurers may argue that mandating coverage without cost-sharing increases premiums for all enrollees, potentially raising healthcare costs across the market
  • Scope of "screenings": Defining which procedures qualify as endometriosis screenings (imaging, diagnostic laparoscopy, clinical exams) and establishing clinical criteria could be technically complex
  • Treatment definition: The breadth of covered treatments—from medications to surgical procedures—and whether experimental treatments are included remains undefined and could expand costs significantly

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.