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Bill

A 6475

Requires health insurance policies to cover comprehensive genetic screening for ovarian and prostate cancers

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Amanda Septimo

New York bill requires health insurers to fully cover genetic screening for hereditary ovarian and prostate cancer without patient cost-sharing.

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Bill Summary · A 6475

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 6475 mandates that all health insurance policies issued in New York must cover comprehensive genetic screening for hereditary ovarian and prostate cancer risk factors, such as BRCA mutations. The bill removes cost barriers by requiring insurers to provide this coverage without imposing copayments, coinsurance, or deductibles.

Why is this important

Genetic screening can identify individuals at significantly elevated risk for certain cancers, enabling earlier detection and preventive interventions that can save lives. However, comprehensive genetic testing is expensive (often $500-$5,000), making it financially inaccessible to many New Yorkers without insurance coverage. Mandating this coverage could democratize access to potentially life-saving information.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost implications: Insurers will argue this creates unfunded mandates that increase premiums for all policyholders, including those without family history or risk factors
  • Medical necessity debate: Critics may question whether universal screening is evidence-based or if risk-stratified screening (limited to those with family history) is more appropriate and cost-effective
  • Scope limitations: The bill targets two cancers specifically; advocates for other hereditary cancers may seek inclusion, raising questions about where to draw lines on mandated genetic screening coverage

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

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