CA SB297

Requires the State Department of Public Health to annually identify regions with elevated valley fever rates using surveillance data, with the first list of high-incidence regions to be published by March 1, 2027

Mandates that adult patients receiving primary care in high-incidence regions be screened for valley fever starting January 1, 2028, with diagnostic testing offered if screening suggests it is warranted, unless exceptions apply (life-threatening emergency, prior screening, lack of capacity, or emergency department treatment)

Prohibits health care service plans and health insurance policies from imposing deductibles, copayments, or other cost-sharing on valley fever screening or testing for individuals in high-incidence regions

Requires local health departments in high-incidence areas to conduct outreach to raise awareness of valley fever risks and symptoms, and to annually report confirmed cases to the state

Directs the Department of Public Health to evaluate the effectiveness of the screening and prevention program by January 1, 2030, and every two years thereafter, reporting findings to the Legislature