SD11 - House Bill 182 (1994): Mandated Coverage for Reconstructive Mammoplasty

  • Published: 1995
  • Author: Special Advisory Commission on Mandated Health Insurance Benefits
  • Enabling Authority: Code of Virginia - § 9-298

Executive Summary:
The report contained herein has been prepared pursuant to §§ 9-298 and 9-299 of the Code of Virginia.

This report documents a study conducted by the Special Advisory Commission on Mandated Health Insurance Benefits to assess the social and financial impact and the medical efficacy of House Bill 182 (1994 Session) regarding a proposed mandated coverage for reconstructive reduction mammoplasty.

During the 1994 Session of the General Assembly, the House Committee on Corporations, Insurance, and Banking referred House Bill 182 to the Special Advisory Commission on Mandated Health Insurance Benefits (Advisory Commission). House Bill 182 is patroned by Delegate Shirley Cooper. The Advisory Commission held a hearing on April 18, 1994 in Richmond to receive public comment on House Bill 182. Eight speakers addressed the proposal. One certified plastic surgeon and five former reconstructive reduction mammoplasty patients spoke in favor of the bill. Representatives from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Virginia (BCBSVA) and the Virginia Association of Health Maintenance Organizations spoke in opposition to the measure. In addition, the Virginia Farm Bureau Federation filed written comments opposing House Bill 182. The Advisory Commission concluded its review of House Bill 182 on May 16, 1994.