NJ S494

Health insurance policies in New Jersey that cover cancer chemotherapy must also cover scalp cooling systems used to prevent or reduce hair loss during treatment.

The mandate applies to all major insurance types including hospital service corporations, medical service corporations, health maintenance organizations, and State and School Employees' Health Benefits Program contracts.

Scalp cooling system coverage must be provided to the same extent as coverage for any other medical condition under the policy.

Physicians administering chemotherapy must inform patients about scalp cooling therapy availability before starting treatment and document this discussion in medical records.

The law takes effect 180 days after enactment and applies to insurance contracts issued or renewed after that date.