STATE HOUSE — The House of Representatives Thursday passed legislation introduced by Rep. Camille F.J. Vella-Wilkinson (D-Dist. 21, Warwick) that would provide for health coverage of uterine fibroid treatments.
The bill (2022-H 7561) would provide health care coverage for laparoscopic removal of uterine fibroids, including intraoperative ultrasound guidance and monitoring and radiofrequency ablation.
Uterine fibroids are a noncancerous growth that appear in the uterus usually during childbearing years. Treatment options include hysterectomy, embolization (radiation) and hormone therapy.
“In Rhode Island, a hysterectomy costs $5,000 to $13,700 and is covered by insurance,” said Representative Vella-Wilkinson. “But a hysterectomy is extremely invasive, painful and although generally released after two to three days, full recovery is typically six to eight weeks. At least 39 states, including Massachusetts, cover a less invasive and less expensive procedure, laparoscopic hysterectomy, to remove fibroids. I would like to see Rhode Island women covered for this as well.”
The measure now moves to the Senate for consideration.
Author: Rob Borkowski
Rob has worked as reporter and editor for several publications, including The Kent County Daily Times and Coventry Courier, before working for Gatehouse in MA then moving home with Patch Media. Now he's publisher and editor of WarwickPost.com. Contact him at [email protected] with tips, press releases, advertising inquiries, and concerns.
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