HB 4089
Preservation of hair during chemotherapy. Also known as the “Jessica Huffman Bill”
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- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill, known as "Jessica Huffman’s Law," requires West Virginia health insurers to cover scalp cooling systems for cancer chemotherapy patients. These systems are designed to reduce or prevent hair loss during treatment. The bill mandates that any policy or plan issued on or after January 1, 2027, that covers cancer chemotherapy treatment must also include coverage for these scalp cooling devices, subject to standard deductibles and coinsurance.
Key provisions
- Requires health insurers to cover scalp cooling systems for cancer chemotherapy patients.
- Defines a ‘scalp cooling system’ as a device designed for repeated use to prevent or reduce hair loss during chemotherapy.
- The coverage must align with definitions established by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
- Coverage is subject to standard deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments.
- The bill applies to various types of insurance plans, including those under the Public Employees Insurance Act, Group Accident and Sickness Insurance, and Health Maintenance Organizations.
- The bill is designated as ‘Jessica Huffman’s Law’.
Who is affected
- Cancer chemotherapy patients in West Virginia
- Health insurers operating in West Virginia
- Individuals covered by health insurance plans in West Virginia
Notable changes
- Establishes mandatory coverage for scalp cooling systems, which was previously not a standard benefit.
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