National Cervical Cancer Awareness Month & Women's Health Care Coverage

Department of Financial Services, Consumer eViews Volume 7 Number 5

January 29, 2010

Sean M. Shaw, Esq., Florida Insurance Consumer Advocate

In recognition of National Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, the Office of the Insurance Consumer Advocate would like to share with you some information on women’s health care coverage.

Currently, cervical cancer is one of the most fatal forms of cancer. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), cervical cancer was once the leading cause of death for women. Though preliminary screening has assisted in the prevention and early detection of the disease, last year more than 11,000 women were diagnosed with cervical cancer in the United States. In addition, about 4,000 women died from the disease last year alone.

Although this disease can be fatal, as with other forms of cancer, early detection is key. Annual Pap Tests and regular checkups from a primary care physician can lower the likelihood of the disease going undetected. Recently, a vaccine was released that protects against the human papillomavirus (HPV). This vaccine protects against two forms of the virus which cause 70% of cervical cancer cases. The CDC recommends routine vaccinations for girls 11 to 12-years-old. Further, the vaccine is also recommended for young women ages 13-26 who have not yet been vaccinated or completed the vaccination series.

Though cancer screenings and pap smears are covered by health insurance providers, there are some important issues consumers should consider before receiving preventative care for cervical cancer:

• Most policies cover one annual pap smear exam, as well as additional exams if requested by a physician.
• While some health insurance providers cover the vaccine, levels of coverage varies. Consumers should contact their health insurance provider to find out if the vaccine is covered under their plan.
• Consumers should review their policy and inquire about potential differences in price based on the test location.
• Consumers should contact their insurer to confirm the extent of coverage based on the existing policy.

Cervical cancer can be prevented with proper screening. Consumers can reduce their risk of receiving unexpected fees by reviewing their policy, and contacting their provider prior to receiving preventative care.

If you have any questions regarding cervical cancer coverage you should contact the Division of Consumer Services within the Department of Financial Services on-line at http://www.myfloridacfo.com/Consumers/ or by phone at 1-877-MY-FL-CFO (1-877-693-5236), toll-free in Florida, and (850) 413-3089 from out of state.

The Insurance Consumer Advocate is appointed by Florida Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink and is committed to finding solutions to insurance issues facing Floridians, calling attention to questionable insurance practices, promoting a viable insurance market responsive to the needs of Florida’s diverse population and assuring that rates are fair and justified.