SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — The Illinois Senate approved a plan Wednesday to require insurance companies to cover preventative cancer screenings and genetic testing for people with a family history of cancer.
Screenings for certain types of cancer are currently covered by insurance if patients meet the age requirement. However, Sen. Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest) said her proposal would require coverage for prevention and susceptibility cancer screenings for every type of cancer for anyone with family members impacted by the disease.
"Like so many others, cancer has impacted me and my family," Morrison said. "This legislation will increase rates of survival by prioritizing prevention and early detection."
Senate Bill 2697 also requires insurance coverage for genetic testing for inherited gene mutations to help people with family history of cancer.
"There's many of us that have experienced this with our families and our children," said Sen. Sally Turner (R-Lincoln). "It's extremely important that they get genetic testing so that they can face life later on in regard of cancers."
The legislation passed unanimously out of the Senate Wednesday. Senate Bill 2697 now moves to the House for further consideration.
Copyright 2024. WAND TV. All rights reserved.
