WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

H 1224

An Act providing insurance coverage for biennial echocardiograms for persons under the age of 18

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Sally Kerans

Massachusetts bill mandates insurance coverage of biennial echocardiograms for all children under 18 to screen for heart defects, increasing insurer costs and utilization of cardiac services.

Accompanied a new draft, see H4945
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · H 1224

Legislative bill overview

H 1224 would mandate that insurance plans in Massachusetts cover biennial (every two years) echocardiograms for all children under 18 years old. The bill requires health insurers to include this cardiac imaging screening as a covered benefit without cost-sharing requirements for families.

Why is this important

Echocardiograms can detect structural heart defects and other cardiac abnormalities that may be asymptomatic but could cause sudden cardiac death in young people, particularly during physical activity. Universal screening coverage could identify at-risk children early, though the population-level benefit of screening all children (versus screening only high-risk populations) remains medically debated. This directly impacts insurance costs and family healthcare access for Massachusetts residents.

Potential points of contention

  • Medical necessity debate: Major medical organizations do not currently recommend routine echocardiograms for all asymptomatic children; screening typically targets those with family history, symptoms, or athletic participation. Mandating universal screening may represent medical overreach.
  • Insurance cost implications: Requiring coverage of screening tests for the entire pediatric population substantially increases insurer costs, which may be passed to consumers through higher premiums or employer contributions.
  • Resource allocation: Widespread screening could overwhelm cardiology departments and imaging centers, potentially delaying access for children with actual cardiac symptoms or confirmed conditions.

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

Sign in to ask a question.