AL HB768

All individual health benefit plans executed or renewed in Alabama must offer coverage for breast reconstruction surgery after a mastectomy, including all stages of breast reconstruction and surgery on the contralateral breast to achieve symmetrical appearance.

Coverage may be subject to the same deductibles and reasonable copayments or coinsurance as applied to similar health care services under the policy.

Insurers are prohibited from denying eligibility, varying policy terms, offering incentives to accept reduced coverage, or penalizing health care practitioners for providing reconstruction services in compliance with this act.

Written notice of coverage availability must be delivered to policyholders upon enrollment and annually thereafter.

The act becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor, and applies to health maintenance organizations and health service plans as well as traditional insurers.