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HB 5174

AN ACT REQUIRING HEALTH INSURANCE COVERAGE FOR DIAGNOSTIC AND SCREENING COLONOSCOPIES.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Eleni DeGraw and 4 co-sponsors

Connecticut bill mandates full health insurance coverage for diagnostic and screening colonoscopies, eliminating patient cost-sharing to increase early cancer detection access.

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Bill Summary · HB 5174

Legislative bill overview

HB 5174 mandates that health insurance plans in Connecticut cover diagnostic and screening colonoscopies without cost-sharing (copays, coinsurance, or deductibles). The bill ensures these procedures are fully covered preventive services under state-regulated health insurance policies.

Why is this important

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S., and colonoscopies are the gold standard for early detection and prevention. Removing financial barriers to these procedures can increase screening rates, catch cancer at earlier, more treatable stages, and ultimately reduce mortality and healthcare costs through prevention rather than treatment of advanced disease.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurance cost impact: Insurers may argue that mandated coverage without cost-sharing increases premiums for all policyholders, shifting costs to individuals who may not utilize these services
  • Scope ambiguity: The bill distinguishes between "diagnostic" and "screening" colonoscopies, but definitions may be unclear—procedures can serve both purposes simultaneously, creating billing and coverage disputes
  • Existing federal requirements: The Affordable Care Act already requires coverage of screening colonoscopies at recommended intervals without cost-sharing; the bill's added value for diagnostic procedures may be narrower than implied

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

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