New York First US State to Mandate Insurance Coverage for Scalp Cooling During Chemo
New York is set to become the first US state to mandate private insurance coverage for scalp psoriasis cooling during chemotherapy, starting next year. This procedure, also known as 'cold capping', helps reduce hair loss for patients undergoing treatment. Assemblymember Linda Rosenthal played a key role in introducing the bill to increase accessibility for breast cancer patients.
Maureen Green, a mother of two, discovered the benefits of scalp cooling firsthand after her breast cancer diagnosis. She decided to try the procedure to preserve her hair during chemotherapy. For Green, maintaining her hair made a significant difference in her emotional well-being during treatment. Scalp cooling works by reducing blood flow to hair follicles, slowing their activity and minimizing damage from chemotherapy drugs. Green found that the procedure gave her a sense of control during her cancer journey. FDA-cleared devices for scalp cooling have shown success rates of up to 65% in reducing hair loss. Despite the high cost, ranging from $1,500 to $5,000 per patient and often not covered by insurance, Green chose scalp cooling to avoid the fear of not recognizing herself due to hair loss.
New York's new law will make scalp psoriasis cooling more affordable and accessible for chemotherapy patients. By requiring insurance coverage, the state is acknowledging the emotional impact of hair loss during cancer treatment and providing a solution. This legislation is expected to improve the quality of life for many patients undergoing chemotherapy.
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