SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION 57

(By Senators Maroney, Grady, Weld, Rucker, Azinger, Stover, Woodrum, Takubo, Stollings, Plymale, Roberts, Geffert, and Lindsay)

[Originating in the Committee on Health and Human Resources; reported on March 7, 2022]

Requesting the West Virginia Insurance Commission study coverage options and costs for the coverage of medically necessary dental procedures that result from cancer related dental and oral health procedures.

Whereas, Approximately 50,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer every year based upon reports of the Oral Cancer Foundation; and  

Whereas, Half of the diagnosed individuals survive for five years or longer; and

Whereas, Since people might not have regular oral cancer screenings, this cancer is often detected late and at a more dangerous stage; and

Whereas, In order to improve patient outcomes, the West Virginia Insurance Commission is directed to study coverage options and costs if provided by insurance plans covered under §33-1-1 et seq. W. Va. Code for the coverage of medically necessary dental procedures to include the following: Evaluations, examinations, patient education, laboratory assessments, medications, treatments, restoration, rehabilitation, medical devices, and prosthesis needed to obtain cancer treatment or restore whole or partial function associated with eating, breathing, voice, speech, and swallowing related to a cancer diagnosis; and

Whereas, The West Virginia Insurance Commission is directed to study coverage options and costs if provided by insurance plans covered under §33-1-1 et seq. W. Va. Code for the coverage of medically necessary oral health procedures to include the following: Surgery, chemotherapy, biotherapy, pharmacology, immunotherapy, or radiation related to a cancer diagnosis; therefore be it

Resolved by the Legislature of West Virginia:

That the West Virginia Insurance Commission study coverage options and costs for the coverage of medically necessary dental procedures that result from cancer related dental and oral health procedures; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the West Virginia Insurance Commission shall report to the Legislative Oversight Commission on Health and Human Resources Accountability on July 1, 2023.