Bill > SB523

This bill requires full-time firefighters and emergency medical services (EMS) providers to receive comprehensive health screenings every three years to detect potential cancer and cardiovascular health issues. The screenings must include examinations for 13 specific types of cancer and cardiovascular conditions, such as liver, kidney, prostate, thyroid, and lung cancers, as well as an echocardiogram. Additionally, gender-specific screenings are mandated, including prostate-specific antigen tests for males and human papillomavirus screenings for females. The bill specifies that all costs associated with these screenings, including copayments, deductibles, and out-of-pocket expenses, must be covered by the employer's health care benefits plan or insurance fund. The bill broadly defines EMS providers to include emergency medical responders, technicians, paramedics, nurses, physician extenders, and other emergency medical service professionals. By requiring regular health screenings, the legislation aims to support the early detection and prevention of serious health conditions among first responders who are often exposed to potentially hazardous work environments.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=S&type=B&bn=523