Bill > S0732

This bill establishes the "Protecting Children from Cancer-Causing Radiation Act" in South Carolina, which requires healthcare providers treating pediatric patients to implement specific protocols when recommending medical imaging that involves radiation exposure. These protocols include determining the medical necessity of the imaging, considering alternative imaging techniques with less or no radiation (such as ultrasound or MRI), reviewing the patient's medical imaging history to avoid unnecessary duplicate exams, and discussing the rationale, benefits, and risks with the patient's parent or legal guardian. The bill mandates that health insurance providers, including individual and group policies, must cover pediatric diagnostic imaging as recommended by healthcare providers, and it specifies that the decision about imaging should be made by the healthcare provider in consultation with the patient's guardian, not the insurance company. Additionally, the bill ensures that pediatric diagnostic imaging is a covered service under Medicaid's Early Periodic Screening, Diagnostic and Treatment Program and for children with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) who qualify for Medicare. Healthcare providers or insurers who violate these provisions may be subject to administrative penalties. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Health and Social Services

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=0732&session=126&summary=B