Early Detection and Prevention of Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases Act of 2001 - Amends the Public Health Service Act and the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 to require a group health plan, and an insurer offering group coverage, to include coverage for bone mass measurement for individuals who: (1) are estrogen-deficient women at clinical risk for osteoporosis; (2) have vertebral abnormalities; (3) are receiving chemotherapy or long-term gluococorticoid (steroid) therapy; (4) have primary hyperparathyroidism, hyperthyroidism, or excess thyroid replacement; (5) are being monitored to assess the response to or efficacy of approved osteoporosis drug therapy; or (6) are men with a low trauma fracture. Regulates frequency and cost sharing. Prohibits related denial of coverage, incentives to individuals, restrictions on provider-patient communications, and provider penalties. Allows State laws providing greater detection or prevention benefits.
Amends the Public Health Service Act to apply the above requirements to coverage offered in the individual market.
Actions
May 3, 2001
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. (text of measure as introduced: CR S4247-4249)
May 3, 2001
Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S4247)