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HB 90

Health insurance; coverage for scalp treatment during cancer chemotherapy treatment.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Holly Seibold

Virginia would require health insurers to cover scalp cooling treatments that prevent chemotherapy-related hair loss for cancer patients undergoing treatment.

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Bill Summary · HB 90

Legislative bill overview

HB 90 would require Virginia health insurance plans to cover scalp cooling treatments (devices that prevent or reduce hair loss) for patients undergoing chemotherapy for cancer. The bill mandates insurance coverage for this supportive care treatment as part of standard cancer care benefits.

Why is this important

Hair loss during chemotherapy causes significant psychological distress for many cancer patients, affecting quality of life and emotional well-being during treatment. Insurance coverage could make scalp cooling technology accessible to more patients who might otherwise forgo the treatment due to cost, though scalp cooling caps typically cost $3,000-$5,000 per treatment course.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and insurance premiums: Requiring coverage may increase insurance premiums for all policyholders, raising questions about whether individual plans should bear these costs versus public health programs
  • Medical necessity debate: Some argue scalp cooling is cosmetic rather than medically necessary, though oncologists recognize its mental health benefits during cancer treatment
  • Implementation details: The bill doesn't specify which scalp cooling technologies qualify, coverage percentages, or whether patients must meet certain criteria, leaving practical questions unresolved

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

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