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Bill

Bill

SB 74

AN ACT relating to coverage of annual mental health wellness examinations.

2025 Regular Session

SB 74 mandates Kentucky health insurers cover annual mental health wellness exams without patient cost-sharing to increase preventive mental health screening access.

to Appropriations & Revenue (S)
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Bill Summary · SB 74

Legislative bill overview

SB 74 would require health insurance coverage for annual mental health wellness examinations in Kentucky. The bill mandates that insurers cover at least one preventive mental health screening per year without cost-sharing (copays, deductibles, or coinsurance) for covered individuals.

Why is this important

Mental health conditions affect millions of Americans and early detection through wellness exams can identify issues before they become severe, potentially reducing treatment costs and improving outcomes. This bill addresses a gap in preventive care access by ensuring financial barriers don't prevent people from getting annual mental health screenings, similar to existing requirements for physical health screenings.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurance cost concerns: Insurers may argue that mandatory coverage without cost-sharing increases premium costs for all policyholders, though proponents note preventive care typically reduces long-term expenses
  • Definition ambiguity: The bill's effectiveness depends on how "annual mental health wellness examination" is defined—whether it includes comprehensive psychiatric evaluations or basic screenings affects implementation scope and cost
  • Provider capacity: Kentucky may lack sufficient mental health providers to meet increased demand from expanded coverage access, particularly in rural areas, potentially limiting the bill's practical benefit

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

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