New York residents will see major changes to health insurance coverage starting today as several new state laws go into effect.
Gov. Kathy Hochul announced the measures, which aim to lower out-of-pocket costs and expand access to medically necessary care, including EpiPens, breast cancer screenings, and chemotherapy-related treatments.
The new laws require health insurers to cover medically necessary EpiPens and cap out-of-pocket costs at $100 per year. Insurers must also expand coverage for breast cancer screening and diagnostic imaging and cover the cost of scalp cooling systems used during chemotherapy.
“New Yorkers shouldn’t have to choose between putting food on the table or being able to afford life-saving medical devices and procedures,” Hochul said. “With these new laws going into effect, individuals will be able to focus on their health and wellbeing without having to worry about the financial burdens tied to treatments.”
EpiPen costs capped
Under the new law, health insurers in the individual and group markets must cover medically necessary EpiPens for emergency allergic reactions. The law caps annual out-of-pocket costs at $100.
State officials said the change addresses steep price increases for the devices, which can cost hundreds of dollars and often need to be replaced yearly.
Expanded breast cancer coverage
Insurance plans must now cover breast cancer screening and diagnostic imaging, including mammograms, ultrasounds, and MRIs, when recommended by a doctor under nationally recognized guidelines.
The law also limits cost-sharing for these procedures, helping reduce barriers to early detection and diagnosis.
Chemotherapy hair loss treatment covered
Another law requires large-group health insurers to cover scalp cooling systems used during chemotherapy. The treatment helps reduce hair loss by limiting the amount of chemotherapy medication that reaches hair follicles.
Without insurance, patients can pay thousands of dollars out of pocket for the treatment.
State lawmakers said the changes promote dignity, affordability, and access to care for patients across New York.
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