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Bill

SB 219

Imposing certain health insurance coverage requirements for screening and diagnostic examinations for breast cancer.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Dinah Sykes

Kansas bill requires health insurers to cover breast cancer screening and diagnostic exams without patient cost-sharing, improving access to early detection.

Died in Committee
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Bill Summary · SB 219

Legislative bill overview

SB 219 mandates that health insurance plans in Kansas cover breast cancer screening and diagnostic examinations without cost-sharing requirements (copays, coinsurance, or deductibles). The bill ensures these preventive services are accessible to insured Kansans regardless of their ability to pay out-of-pocket expenses.

Why is this important

Removing financial barriers to breast cancer screening can increase early detection rates, which significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates. This policy aligns with public health goals of preventive care while potentially reducing long-term healthcare costs associated with late-stage cancer treatment.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurance premium increases: Insurers may argue that eliminating cost-sharing will increase overall premiums for all policyholders, shifting costs rather than eliminating them
  • Scope definition: Unclear what qualifies as "screening" versus "diagnostic" examinations could create disputes over coverage obligations and claims processing
  • Federal law overlap: The Affordable Care Act already mandates free preventive services including certain breast cancer screenings, raising questions about whether this bill adds new requirements or addresses existing gaps

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

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