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HB 300

Health; to require that coverage for breast cancer screening be provided without charging an insurance deductible or copayment to a beneficiary

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Frances Holk-Jones

Alabama bill requires health insurers to cover breast cancer screening without patient cost-sharing to increase early detection and reduce financial barriers to preventive care.

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Bill Summary · HB 300

Legislative bill overview

HB 300 requires health insurance plans in Alabama to cover breast cancer screening services without imposing deductibles or copayments on beneficiaries. The bill aims to remove financial barriers that may prevent early detection of breast cancer by ensuring preventive screening is fully covered under insurance policies.

Why is this important

Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer deaths among women, and early detection significantly improves survival rates and treatment outcomes. Removing out-of-pocket costs for screening can increase screening rates, particularly among lower-income populations who may delay or forgo preventive care due to cost concerns. This aligns with public health goals of preventive medicine and early intervention.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurance cost concerns: Insurers may argue that removing cost-sharing increases overall premiums for all policyholders, potentially raising healthcare costs system-wide
  • Scope definition: Questions about what specifically qualifies as "breast cancer screening" (mammograms only? ultrasounds? MRIs?) and at what age/frequency coverage begins could affect implementation and costs
  • Mandate scope: Whether this applies to all insurance types (private, employer-sponsored, individual plans) or specific categories, and whether it affects self-insured employers differently

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

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