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Breast Cancer Patient Equity Act

3/14/2024, 11:31 AM

Summary of Bill S 3069

Bill 118 s 3069, also known as the Breast Cancer Patient Equity Act, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The purpose of this bill is to ensure that breast cancer patients who have undergone a mastectomy are able to access necessary reconstructive surgery.

The bill specifically addresses the issue of insurance coverage for breast reconstruction surgery following a mastectomy. It aims to eliminate disparities in coverage between different types of breast cancer treatments, ensuring that all patients have access to the same level of care regardless of their insurance provider.

If passed, the Breast Cancer Patient Equity Act would require all insurance plans to cover breast reconstruction surgery, including any necessary procedures to achieve symmetry between the breasts. This would apply to both private insurance plans and those provided through government programs such as Medicare and Medicaid. The bill also includes provisions to ensure that patients are informed of their rights to breast reconstruction surgery and are provided with information about their options before undergoing a mastectomy. Additionally, it seeks to improve access to care by requiring insurance plans to cover any necessary travel and lodging expenses for patients who need to travel for reconstructive surgery. Overall, the Breast Cancer Patient Equity Act aims to ensure that all breast cancer patients have access to the care they need to recover and heal following a mastectomy. By addressing disparities in insurance coverage and improving access to reconstructive surgery, this bill has the potential to greatly benefit those affected by breast cancer.

Congressional Summary of S 3069

Breast Cancer Patient Equity Act

This bill provides for Medicare coverage of custom fabricated breast prostheses following the surgical removal of the breast (i.e., a mastectomy), including replacements of such prostheses. Currently, Medicare covers surgically implanted breast prostheses, as well as some external breast prostheses (e.g., post-surgical bras).

Current Status of Bill S 3069

Bill S 3069 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since October 18, 2023. Bill S 3069 was introduced during Congress 118 and was introduced to the Senate on October 18, 2023.  Bill S 3069's most recent activity was Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance. as of October 18, 2023

Bipartisan Support of Bill S 3069

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
1
Republican Sponsors
0
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
2
Democrat Cosponsors
0
Republican Cosponsors
2
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill S 3069

Primary Policy Focus

Health

Potential Impact Areas

- Cancer
- Health care coverage and access
- Health technology, devices, supplies
- Medicare
- Surgery and anesthesia
- Women's health

Alternate Title(s) of Bill S 3069

Breast Cancer Patient Equity Act
Breast Cancer Patient Equity Act
A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide coverage for custom fabricated breast protheses following a mastectomy.

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