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Bill

Bill

HB 1070

prohibit cost-sharing in certain health insurance policies for diagnostic and supplemental breast imaging examinations.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Bobbi Andera and 28 co-sponsors

South Dakota bill removes insurance cost-sharing for breast cancer diagnostic and supplemental imaging to improve access to early detection services.

Commerce and Energy Deferred to the 41st legislative day , Passed, YEAS 10, NAYS 2
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Bill Summary · HB 1070

Legislative bill overview

HB 1070 would prohibit health insurance plans from requiring patients to pay cost-sharing (copayments, coinsurance, or deductibles) for diagnostic and supplemental breast imaging examinations. The bill aims to remove financial barriers to breast cancer screening and diagnostic imaging services in South Dakota.

Why is this important

Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer death among women, and early detection through screening significantly improves outcomes. Cost-sharing requirements can discourage patients from obtaining recommended imaging, potentially delaying diagnosis. Removing these financial barriers could increase access to preventive and diagnostic care, particularly for lower-income populations.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurance cost implications: Eliminating cost-sharing for these services increases insurance company expenses, which may be passed to employers or individual policyholders through higher premiums
  • Scope definition: "Diagnostic and supplemental breast imaging" requires clear regulatory definition to prevent coverage disputes and ensure consistent implementation across insurers
  • Mandate expansion concerns: Some opponents view health insurance benefit mandates as government overreach that increases healthcare costs and limits market flexibility, though supporters see them as essential consumer protections

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

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