On January 22, 2025, the New Hampshire Legislature introduced Senate Bill 120, a significant piece of legislation aimed at expanding health coverage for biomarker testing. This bill seeks to ensure that health carriers and the state Medicaid program provide coverage for biomarker testing, which is essential for diagnosing, treating, and managing various diseases.

The bill outlines specific criteria under which biomarker testing must be covered. These include tests that are FDA-approved, indicated for FDA-approved drugs, or supported by nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines and consensus statements. The intent is to optimize patient care by ensuring that testing is based on the best available medical evidence.

Key provisions of the bill mandate that health carriers must limit disruptions in patient care, such as the need for multiple biopsies. Additionally, if prior authorization is required for testing, health carriers must respond to requests within specified timeframes—72 hours for non-urgent requests and 24 hours for urgent ones. The bill also emphasizes the importance of transparency, requiring health carriers to provide accessible processes for patients and practitioners to request exceptions to coverage policies.

The introduction of SB 120 has sparked discussions among lawmakers and healthcare advocates. Proponents argue that the bill will enhance patient access to necessary medical testing, potentially leading to better health outcomes. However, some critics express concerns about the financial implications for health carriers and the state Medicaid program, fearing that expanded coverage could lead to increased costs.

The bill's implications extend beyond healthcare access; it also reflects a growing recognition of the role of personalized medicine in treatment strategies. Experts suggest that if passed, SB 120 could position New Hampshire as a leader in adopting innovative healthcare practices, potentially influencing similar legislation in other states.

As the legislative process unfolds, stakeholders will closely monitor the debates and amendments surrounding SB 120, which could shape the future of biomarker testing coverage in New Hampshire. The bill is set to be discussed in upcoming committee hearings, where its provisions and potential impacts will be further evaluated.