Delaware Governor John Carney recently signed two bills into law that further expand insurance coverage for women’s health conditions. The new laws mandate that private health insurers, the state employee health plan, and Medicaid must cover annual mammograms for women aged 40 and above without requiring a referral. Additionally, insurance coverage for ovarian cancer monitoring tests for women at risk of the disease was also codified.
State Representative Kim Williams, who sponsored one of the bills, emphasized the importance of these legislative changes in shifting the narrative around women’s health. She highlighted the significance of early detection and screening for diseases, which can ultimately save lives and reduce healthcare costs in the long run.
Despite concerns about rising healthcare costs, Insurance Commissioner Trinidad Navarro promoted a forward-thinking perspective, stating that covering these screenings would result in cost savings and improve health outcomes for women. The Department of Insurance will allow for a flexibility period in terms of enforcement to accommodate the changes in coverage.
In response to the new legislation, the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition expressed gratitude for the enactment of the laws, as they will help remove barriers that prevent women from receiving timely screenings. The General Assembly also passed bills this year to require insurance coverage for abortion, non-prescription birth control, and doula services, further solidifying the state’s commitment to women’s health.Overall, these legislative efforts aim to promote equitable access to essential healthcare services for women in Delaware.
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