MA H4553

Requires all Massachusetts health insurers to cover oral and dental care for head and neck cancer patients, including pre-treatment preventative care, post-treatment rehabilitative care, and procedures necessitated by chemotherapy, immunotherapy, biological therapy, proton therapy, and radiation therapy

Mandates coverage for dental implants, prostheses, obturators, and medical devices needed to restore eating, breathing, voice, speech, and swallowing functions affected by cancer treatment

Applies to Group Insurance Commission plans for state employees, MassHealth, commercial insurers under Chapter 175, Blue Cross Blue Shield hospital and medical service plans, and health maintenance organizations

Covers post-cancer dental care including quarterly cleanings, bi-annual periodontist assessments, scaling and root planing, fluoride treatments, and procedures to address tooth loss or decay caused directly or indirectly by treatment

Includes laboratory assessments, medications, patient education, and rehabilitative services to restore normal appearance of structures affected by head and neck cancer diagnosis or treatment side effects