Bill Summary: The legislation would require health insurance plans and Medi-Cal to cover FDA-cleared scalp cooling treatments for chemotherapy patients to prevent alopecia (hair loss). AB 1682 recently passed the full Assembly and is now being considered in the Senate.
Why does this matter? Scalp cooling coverage matters because it helps reduce chemotherapy-induced hair loss, a side effect that can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life and sense of identity. By preserving hair, patients often maintain greater dignity, privacy, and normalcy during treatment. Ensuring coverage also promotes equitable access so cost does not prevent patients from receiving this supportive, evidence-based care.
How Can YOU Help?
You have a powerful voice. Reaching out to lawmakers is a critical step in enhancing access to this important intervention for managing side effects of cancer treatment. Please contact your state senators and urge them to support and advance the legislation. Personalized messages make a difference!