ME LD784

Health insurers must cover specialized risk screening for first responders (firefighters, EMS, police, correctional officers, and emergency communications personnel) when recommended by a provider, effective January 1, 2027

Covered screenings include cancer tests related to occupational exposure, comprehensive blood panels, mammography, colonoscopy, and prostate exams regardless of age, cardiovascular inflammation markers, and vitamin/nutritional tests

No prior authorization required for specialized risk screening, except insurers may verify first responder status or require authorization for screenings at non-affiliated laboratories

No deductibles, copayments, or other cost-sharing may be imposed for these screenings, with an exception for high deductible health savings account plans pending IRS determination

First responders are defined as employees, occasional employees, or volunteers of state, county, or municipal entities providing fire, EMS, emergency communications, correctional, or police services