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Bill

Bill

SB 97

AN ACT relating to coverage for prostheses and orthoses.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Julie Adams and 10 co-sponsors

Kentucky SB 97 expands mandatory health insurance coverage for prosthetic devices and orthotic braces to increase patient access to mobility-critical medical equipment.

signed by Governor (Acts Ch. 51)
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Bill Summary · SB 97

Legislative bill overview

SB 97 expands insurance coverage requirements for prosthetic devices and orthotic braces in Kentucky. The bill modifies existing state law to require health insurance plans to cover these medical devices more broadly, likely removing or reducing prior restrictions on coverage eligibility, frequency of replacement, or types of devices covered.

Why is this important

Prostheses and orthoses are essential mobility and functional devices for individuals with limb loss, spinal conditions, and orthopedic disabilities. Expanded insurance coverage reduces out-of-pocket costs for patients and removes barriers to accessing devices that significantly improve quality of life, work capacity, and independence.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurance cost increases: Broader coverage mandates may increase premiums for all policyholders or reduce insurer profit margins, potentially affecting insurance market competitiveness
  • Definition and scope ambiguity: Without seeing the specific language, coverage expansions could be defined too broadly (covering cosmetic or experimental devices) or too narrowly (excluding legitimate medical needs)
  • Prior authorization and medical necessity standards: The bill may eliminate insurer oversight mechanisms, potentially leading to unnecessary device provision or conversely, may establish new restrictions if standards are poorly defined

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

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