Bill > S06523

This bill requires insurance companies to reimburse health care practitioners at the same rate for cervical cytology screening, regardless of whether the screening is performed by a primary care practitioner or a provider of obstetrical and/or gynecological services. A Pap smear, which is a screening method for detecting precancerous and cancerous cells in the cervix, is included in this provision. The bill specifically amends sections of the insurance law, social services law, and public health law to ensure equal reimbursement rates and access to screening. Additionally, the bill prohibits primary care practitioners from refusing to perform a Pap smear during a patient's annual checkup if the patient has not had a Pap smear in the preceding twelve months. This legislation aims to improve access to cervical cancer screening by removing potential financial and procedural barriers that might discourage patients from receiving this important preventive health service. The bill will take effect 180 days after becoming law, giving insurance providers and healthcare practitioners time to adjust to the new requirements.

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https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S6523