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H 1076

An Act relative to colon cancer screening

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jim Arciero and 4 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill mandates insurance coverage of colorectal cancer screening procedures with no patient cost-sharing to increase early detection and reduce treatment expenses.

Hearing scheduled for 09/17/2025 from 12:30 PM-04:30 PM in Gardner Auditorium
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Bill Summary · H 1076

Legislative bill overview

H.1076 requires insurance coverage for colorectal cancer screening procedures and related preventive services in Massachusetts. The bill mandates that health insurance plans cover colonoscopies, sigmoidoscopies, and other approved screening methods without cost-sharing requirements for eligible individuals.

Why is this important

Colorectal cancer is the third-leading cancer killer in the U.S., yet screening rates remain suboptimal partly due to cost barriers. By eliminating copays and deductibles for screening, the bill aims to increase early detection rates, which significantly improve treatment outcomes and reduce overall healthcare costs associated with advanced-stage cancer treatment.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurance premium increases: Mandated coverage without cost-sharing may increase premiums for all policyholders, shifting costs from screened individuals to the broader insured population
  • Age eligibility thresholds: Defining which age groups qualify for no-cost screening could create disputes (current guidelines recommend starting at age 45-50, but coverage scope remains unclear)
  • Scope of covered procedures: Ambiguity about which screening methods qualify and how often they're covered could lead to disputes between insurers and patients over reimbursement

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

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