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HB 230

Health insurance; cost sharing for breast examinations.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Barbara Favola and 5 co-sponsors

Virginia bill eliminates patient cost-sharing for breast examinations and mammograms to increase preventive cancer screening access.

Left in Appropriations
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 230

Legislative bill overview

HB 230 prohibits health insurance plans in Virginia from imposing cost-sharing requirements (copayments, coinsurance, or deductibles) on breast examinations, including mammograms and clinical breast exams. The bill ensures these preventive screenings are fully covered at no out-of-pocket expense to patients.

Why is this important

Removing financial barriers to breast cancer screening can increase detection rates, particularly among lower-income Virginians who may delay or skip preventive care due to cost. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates, making this a public health measure with potential long-term cost savings for the healthcare system.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurance cost implications: Insurers may argue that eliminating cost-sharing for one service category increases premiums for all policyholders, potentially raising overall healthcare costs
  • Scope definition: Questions about which specific breast examination procedures qualify (clinical exams only vs. all imaging modalities) and whether supplemental screenings like ultrasound or MRI are included
  • Consistency with federal law: Federal requirements under the Affordable Care Act already mandate coverage of certain preventive screenings without cost-sharing, raising questions about whether this bill duplicates existing protections or extends beyond them

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

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