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Bill

SB 313

Regards insurance, Medicaid coverage of scalp cooling systems

136th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Brian Chavez

Ohio Medicaid would be required to cover scalp cooling devices for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy to prevent hair loss.

Referred to committee
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Bill Summary · SB 313

Legislative bill overview

SB 313 would require Ohio's Medicaid program to cover scalp cooling systems (devices that reduce hair loss during chemotherapy) for eligible cancer patients. The bill mandates insurance coverage for this technology, which has FDA approval but remains inaccessible to many due to cost.

Why is this important

Scalp cooling significantly reduces chemotherapy-induced alopecia, which can improve quality of life and psychological well-being for cancer patients. For low-income Ohioans relying on Medicaid, this coverage expansion could make an expensive treatment option ($3,000-$5,000+ per treatment course) financially feasible during an already difficult medical journey.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost to Medicaid: State Medicaid budgets face constraints; covering scalp cooling systems adds expenses that may require reallocation from other services or increased state funding
  • Clinical necessity debate: Some argue hair loss is cosmetic rather than medically necessary, questioning whether public funds should prioritize this versus other cancer treatments or preventive care
  • Coverage scope ambiguity: The bill's details on patient eligibility criteria, device types covered, and frequency limits are unclear and could create implementation challenges or inequitable access

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

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