Bill > SB406

This bill mandates that health insurance plans in Missouri provide comprehensive coverage for genetic counseling and testing related to BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, which are associated with increased risk of breast and ovarian cancer. Specifically, the bill requires health benefit plans issued or renewed after January 1, 2025, to cover genetic counseling provided by a certified professional and subsequent genetic testing for individuals who have a heightened risk of harmful gene mutations, as determined by a clinical risk assessment. The legislation prohibits health carriers from using genetic testing results or counseling information to make underwriting decisions, such as determining coverage eligibility or setting premiums. Moreover, the bill stipulates that insurers cannot impose any cost-sharing requirements for these genetic screening services, ensuring that individuals can access these potentially life-saving screenings without financial barriers. The bill defines key terms like "genetic counseling" and "health benefit plan" and includes provisions to ensure compliance with federal health savings account regulations, making genetic screening more accessible and affordable for individuals with a family or personal history of breast or ovarian cancer.

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https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=47