California 2023-2024 Regular Session

California Assembly Bill AB2105 Compare Versions

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1-Assembly Bill No. 2105 CHAPTER 822An act to add Section 1367.38 to the Health and Safety Code, and to add Section 10123.38 to the Insurance Code, relating to health care coverage. [ Approved by Governor September 28, 2024. Filed with Secretary of State September 28, 2024. ] LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTAB 2105, Lowenthal. Coverage for PANDAS and PANS.Existing law, the Knox-Keene Health Care Service Plan Act of 1975, provides for the licensure and regulation of health care service plans by the Department of Managed Health Care, and makes a willful violation of the act a crime. Existing law provides for the regulation of health insurers by the Department of Insurance. Existing law sets forth specified coverage requirements for health care service plan contracts and health insurance policies, and limits the copayment, coinsurance, deductible, and other cost sharing that may be imposed for specified health care services.This bill would require a health care service plan contract or health insurance policy issued, amended, or renewed on or after January 1, 2025, to provide coverage for the prophylaxis, diagnosis, and treatment of Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS) and Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) that is prescribed or ordered by the treating physician and surgeon and is medically necessary, as specified. The bill would prohibit coverage for PANDAS and PANS from being subject to a copayment, coinsurance, deductible, or other cost sharing that is greater than that applied to other benefits. The bill would prohibit a plan or insurer from denying or delaying coverage for PANDAS or PANS therapies because the enrollee or insured previously received treatment for PANDAS or PANS or was diagnosed with or received treatment for the condition under a different diagnostic name. Because a willful violation of these provisions by a health care service plan would be a crime, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: YES Local Program: YES Bill TextThe people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. Section 1367.38 is added to the Health and Safety Code, to read:1367.38. (a) A health care service plan contract issued, amended, or renewed on or after January 1, 2025, shall provide coverage for the prophylaxis, diagnosis, and treatment of Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS) and Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) that is prescribed or ordered by the treating physician and surgeon and is medically necessary, as defined by current nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines by expert treating physicians published in peer-reviewed medical literature. Treatment for PANDAS and PANS that shall be covered includes antibiotics, medication and behavioral therapies to manage neuropsychiatric symptoms, immunomodulating medicines, plasma exchange, and intravenous immunoglobulin therapy.(b) Coverage for PANDAS and PANS shall not be subject to a copayment, coinsurance, deductible, or other cost sharing that is greater than that applied to other benefits provided by the contract.(c) (1) A required authorization for PANDAS and PANS prophylaxis, diagnosis, or treatment shall be provided in a timely manner that is appropriate for the severity of an enrollees condition pursuant to Section 1367.03.(2) A health care service plan shall not deny or delay coverage for PANDAS or PANS therapies because the enrollee previously received treatment, including the same or similar treatment, for PANDAS or PANS, or because the enrollee was diagnosed with or received treatment for their condition under a different diagnostic name, including autoimmune encephalopathy.(3) A health care service plan shall not limit coverage of immunomodulating therapies for PANDAS or PANS in a manner that is inconsistent with the treatment recommendations pursuant to subdivision (d), and shall not require a trial of therapies that treat only neuropsychiatric symptoms before authorizing coverage of immunomodulating therapies pursuant to this section.(d) Coverage for PANDAS and PANS shall adhere to the treatment recommendations delineated in current clinical practice guidelines published in peer-reviewed medical literature or put forth by organizations composed of expert treating clinicians.(e) For billing and diagnostic purposes, PANDAS and PANS shall be coded as autoimmune encephalitis until the American Medical Association and the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services create and assign a specific code or codes for PANDAS and PANS. After the creation of that code or codes, PANDAS and PANS may be coded as autoimmune encephalitis, PANDAS, or PANS. If PANDAS or PANS is known by a different common name in the future, it may be coded under that name and this section shall apply to that disorder or syndrome.(f) This section does not apply to a specialized health care service plan contract that covers dental or vision benefits or a Medicare supplement policy.SEC. 2. Section 10123.38 is added to the Insurance Code, to read:10123.38. (a) A health insurance policy issued, amended, or renewed on or after January 1, 2025, shall provide coverage for the prophylaxis, diagnosis, and treatment of Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS) and Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) that is prescribed or ordered by the treating physician and surgeon and is medically necessary, as defined by current nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines by expert treating physicians published in peer-reviewed medical literature. Treatment for PANDAS and PANS that shall be covered includes antibiotics, medication and behavioral therapies to manage neuropsychiatric symptoms, immunomodulating medicines, plasma exchange, and intravenous immunoglobulin therapy.(b) Coverage for PANDAS and PANS shall not be subject to a copayment, coinsurance, deductible, or other cost sharing that is greater than that applied to other benefits provided by the policy.(c) (1) A required authorization for PANDAS and PANS prophylaxis, diagnosis, or treatment shall be provided in a timely manner that is appropriate for the severity of an insureds condition pursuant to Section 10133.54.(2) A health insurer shall not deny or delay coverage for PANDAS or PANS therapies because the insured previously received treatment, including the same or similar treatment, for PANDAS or PANS, or because the insured was diagnosed with or received treatment for their condition under a different diagnostic name, including autoimmune encephalopathy.(3) A health insurer shall not limit coverage of immunomodulating therapies for PANDAS or PANS in a manner that is inconsistent with the treatment recommendations pursuant to subdivision (d), and shall not require a trial of therapies that treat only neuropsychiatric symptoms before authorizing coverage of immunomodulating therapies pursuant to this section.(d) Coverage for PANDAS and PANS shall adhere to the treatment recommendations delineated in current clinical practice guidelines published in peer-reviewed medical literature or put forth by organizations composed of expert treating clinicians.(e) For billing and diagnostic purposes, PANDAS and PANS shall be coded as autoimmune encephalitis until the American Medical Association and the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services create and assign a specific code or codes for PANDAS and PANS. After the creation of that code or codes, PANDAS and PANS may be coded as autoimmune encephalitis, PANDAS, or PANS. If PANDAS or PANS is known by a different common name in the future, it may be coded under that name and this section shall apply to that disorder or syndrome.(f) This section does not apply to a specialized health insurance policy that covers dental or vision benefits or a Medicare supplement policy.SEC. 3. No reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution because the only costs that may be incurred by a local agency or school district will be incurred because this act creates a new crime or infraction, eliminates a crime or infraction, or changes the penalty for a crime or infraction, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code, or changes the definition of a crime within the meaning of Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution.
1+Enrolled September 03, 2024 Passed IN Senate August 28, 2024 Passed IN Assembly August 29, 2024 Amended IN Senate August 21, 2024 Amended IN Senate June 17, 2024 Amended IN Assembly April 18, 2024 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20232024 REGULAR SESSION Assembly Bill No. 2105Introduced by Assembly Member Lowenthal(Coauthors: Senators Rubio and Wiener)February 05, 2024An act to add Section 1367.38 to the Health and Safety Code, and to add Section 10123.38 to the Insurance Code, relating to health care coverage.LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTAB 2105, Lowenthal. Coverage for PANDAS and PANS.Existing law, the Knox-Keene Health Care Service Plan Act of 1975, provides for the licensure and regulation of health care service plans by the Department of Managed Health Care, and makes a willful violation of the act a crime. Existing law provides for the regulation of health insurers by the Department of Insurance. Existing law sets forth specified coverage requirements for health care service plan contracts and health insurance policies, and limits the copayment, coinsurance, deductible, and other cost sharing that may be imposed for specified health care services.This bill would require a health care service plan contract or health insurance policy issued, amended, or renewed on or after January 1, 2025, to provide coverage for the prophylaxis, diagnosis, and treatment of Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS) and Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) that is prescribed or ordered by the treating physician and surgeon and is medically necessary, as specified. The bill would prohibit coverage for PANDAS and PANS from being subject to a copayment, coinsurance, deductible, or other cost sharing that is greater than that applied to other benefits. The bill would prohibit a plan or insurer from denying or delaying coverage for PANDAS or PANS therapies because the enrollee or insured previously received treatment for PANDAS or PANS or was diagnosed with or received treatment for the condition under a different diagnostic name. Because a willful violation of these provisions by a health care service plan would be a crime, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: YES Local Program: YES Bill TextThe people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. Section 1367.38 is added to the Health and Safety Code, to read:1367.38. (a) A health care service plan contract issued, amended, or renewed on or after January 1, 2025, shall provide coverage for the prophylaxis, diagnosis, and treatment of Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS) and Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) that is prescribed or ordered by the treating physician and surgeon and is medically necessary, as defined by current nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines by expert treating physicians published in peer-reviewed medical literature. Treatment for PANDAS and PANS that shall be covered includes antibiotics, medication and behavioral therapies to manage neuropsychiatric symptoms, immunomodulating medicines, plasma exchange, and intravenous immunoglobulin therapy.(b) Coverage for PANDAS and PANS shall not be subject to a copayment, coinsurance, deductible, or other cost sharing that is greater than that applied to other benefits provided by the contract.(c) (1) A required authorization for PANDAS and PANS prophylaxis, diagnosis, or treatment shall be provided in a timely manner that is appropriate for the severity of an enrollees condition pursuant to Section 1367.03.(2) A health care service plan shall not deny or delay coverage for PANDAS or PANS therapies because the enrollee previously received treatment, including the same or similar treatment, for PANDAS or PANS, or because the enrollee was diagnosed with or received treatment for their condition under a different diagnostic name, including autoimmune encephalopathy.(3) A health care service plan shall not limit coverage of immunomodulating therapies for PANDAS or PANS in a manner that is inconsistent with the treatment recommendations pursuant to subdivision (d), and shall not require a trial of therapies that treat only neuropsychiatric symptoms before authorizing coverage of immunomodulating therapies pursuant to this section.(d) Coverage for PANDAS and PANS shall adhere to the treatment recommendations delineated in current clinical practice guidelines published in peer-reviewed medical literature or put forth by organizations composed of expert treating clinicians.(e) For billing and diagnostic purposes, PANDAS and PANS shall be coded as autoimmune encephalitis until the American Medical Association and the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services create and assign a specific code or codes for PANDAS and PANS. After the creation of that code or codes, PANDAS and PANS may be coded as autoimmune encephalitis, PANDAS, or PANS. If PANDAS or PANS is known by a different common name in the future, it may be coded under that name and this section shall apply to that disorder or syndrome.(f) This section does not apply to a specialized health care service plan contract that covers dental or vision benefits or a Medicare supplement policy.SEC. 2. Section 10123.38 is added to the Insurance Code, to read:10123.38. (a) A health insurance policy issued, amended, or renewed on or after January 1, 2025, shall provide coverage for the prophylaxis, diagnosis, and treatment of Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS) and Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) that is prescribed or ordered by the treating physician and surgeon and is medically necessary, as defined by current nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines by expert treating physicians published in peer-reviewed medical literature. Treatment for PANDAS and PANS that shall be covered includes antibiotics, medication and behavioral therapies to manage neuropsychiatric symptoms, immunomodulating medicines, plasma exchange, and intravenous immunoglobulin therapy.(b) Coverage for PANDAS and PANS shall not be subject to a copayment, coinsurance, deductible, or other cost sharing that is greater than that applied to other benefits provided by the policy.(c) (1) A required authorization for PANDAS and PANS prophylaxis, diagnosis, or treatment shall be provided in a timely manner that is appropriate for the severity of an insureds condition pursuant to Section 10133.54.(2) A health insurer shall not deny or delay coverage for PANDAS or PANS therapies because the insured previously received treatment, including the same or similar treatment, for PANDAS or PANS, or because the insured was diagnosed with or received treatment for their condition under a different diagnostic name, including autoimmune encephalopathy.(3) A health insurer shall not limit coverage of immunomodulating therapies for PANDAS or PANS in a manner that is inconsistent with the treatment recommendations pursuant to subdivision (d), and shall not require a trial of therapies that treat only neuropsychiatric symptoms before authorizing coverage of immunomodulating therapies pursuant to this section.(d) Coverage for PANDAS and PANS shall adhere to the treatment recommendations delineated in current clinical practice guidelines published in peer-reviewed medical literature or put forth by organizations composed of expert treating clinicians.(e) For billing and diagnostic purposes, PANDAS and PANS shall be coded as autoimmune encephalitis until the American Medical Association and the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services create and assign a specific code or codes for PANDAS and PANS. After the creation of that code or codes, PANDAS and PANS may be coded as autoimmune encephalitis, PANDAS, or PANS. If PANDAS or PANS is known by a different common name in the future, it may be coded under that name and this section shall apply to that disorder or syndrome.(f) This section does not apply to a specialized health insurance policy that covers dental or vision benefits or a Medicare supplement policy.SEC. 3. No reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution because the only costs that may be incurred by a local agency or school district will be incurred because this act creates a new crime or infraction, eliminates a crime or infraction, or changes the penalty for a crime or infraction, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code, or changes the definition of a crime within the meaning of Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution.
22
3- Assembly Bill No. 2105 CHAPTER 822An act to add Section 1367.38 to the Health and Safety Code, and to add Section 10123.38 to the Insurance Code, relating to health care coverage. [ Approved by Governor September 28, 2024. Filed with Secretary of State September 28, 2024. ] LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTAB 2105, Lowenthal. Coverage for PANDAS and PANS.Existing law, the Knox-Keene Health Care Service Plan Act of 1975, provides for the licensure and regulation of health care service plans by the Department of Managed Health Care, and makes a willful violation of the act a crime. Existing law provides for the regulation of health insurers by the Department of Insurance. Existing law sets forth specified coverage requirements for health care service plan contracts and health insurance policies, and limits the copayment, coinsurance, deductible, and other cost sharing that may be imposed for specified health care services.This bill would require a health care service plan contract or health insurance policy issued, amended, or renewed on or after January 1, 2025, to provide coverage for the prophylaxis, diagnosis, and treatment of Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS) and Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) that is prescribed or ordered by the treating physician and surgeon and is medically necessary, as specified. The bill would prohibit coverage for PANDAS and PANS from being subject to a copayment, coinsurance, deductible, or other cost sharing that is greater than that applied to other benefits. The bill would prohibit a plan or insurer from denying or delaying coverage for PANDAS or PANS therapies because the enrollee or insured previously received treatment for PANDAS or PANS or was diagnosed with or received treatment for the condition under a different diagnostic name. Because a willful violation of these provisions by a health care service plan would be a crime, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: YES Local Program: YES
3+ Enrolled September 03, 2024 Passed IN Senate August 28, 2024 Passed IN Assembly August 29, 2024 Amended IN Senate August 21, 2024 Amended IN Senate June 17, 2024 Amended IN Assembly April 18, 2024 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20232024 REGULAR SESSION Assembly Bill No. 2105Introduced by Assembly Member Lowenthal(Coauthors: Senators Rubio and Wiener)February 05, 2024An act to add Section 1367.38 to the Health and Safety Code, and to add Section 10123.38 to the Insurance Code, relating to health care coverage.LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTAB 2105, Lowenthal. Coverage for PANDAS and PANS.Existing law, the Knox-Keene Health Care Service Plan Act of 1975, provides for the licensure and regulation of health care service plans by the Department of Managed Health Care, and makes a willful violation of the act a crime. Existing law provides for the regulation of health insurers by the Department of Insurance. Existing law sets forth specified coverage requirements for health care service plan contracts and health insurance policies, and limits the copayment, coinsurance, deductible, and other cost sharing that may be imposed for specified health care services.This bill would require a health care service plan contract or health insurance policy issued, amended, or renewed on or after January 1, 2025, to provide coverage for the prophylaxis, diagnosis, and treatment of Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS) and Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) that is prescribed or ordered by the treating physician and surgeon and is medically necessary, as specified. The bill would prohibit coverage for PANDAS and PANS from being subject to a copayment, coinsurance, deductible, or other cost sharing that is greater than that applied to other benefits. The bill would prohibit a plan or insurer from denying or delaying coverage for PANDAS or PANS therapies because the enrollee or insured previously received treatment for PANDAS or PANS or was diagnosed with or received treatment for the condition under a different diagnostic name. Because a willful violation of these provisions by a health care service plan would be a crime, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: YES Local Program: YES
44
5- Assembly Bill No. 2105 CHAPTER 822
5+ Enrolled September 03, 2024 Passed IN Senate August 28, 2024 Passed IN Assembly August 29, 2024 Amended IN Senate August 21, 2024 Amended IN Senate June 17, 2024 Amended IN Assembly April 18, 2024
66
7- Assembly Bill No. 2105
7+Enrolled September 03, 2024
8+Passed IN Senate August 28, 2024
9+Passed IN Assembly August 29, 2024
10+Amended IN Senate August 21, 2024
11+Amended IN Senate June 17, 2024
12+Amended IN Assembly April 18, 2024
813
9- CHAPTER 822
14+ CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20232024 REGULAR SESSION
15+
16+ Assembly Bill
17+
18+No. 2105
19+
20+Introduced by Assembly Member Lowenthal(Coauthors: Senators Rubio and Wiener)February 05, 2024
21+
22+Introduced by Assembly Member Lowenthal(Coauthors: Senators Rubio and Wiener)
23+February 05, 2024
1024
1125 An act to add Section 1367.38 to the Health and Safety Code, and to add Section 10123.38 to the Insurance Code, relating to health care coverage.
12-
13- [ Approved by Governor September 28, 2024. Filed with Secretary of State September 28, 2024. ]
1426
1527 LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST
1628
1729 ## LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST
1830
1931 AB 2105, Lowenthal. Coverage for PANDAS and PANS.
2032
2133 Existing law, the Knox-Keene Health Care Service Plan Act of 1975, provides for the licensure and regulation of health care service plans by the Department of Managed Health Care, and makes a willful violation of the act a crime. Existing law provides for the regulation of health insurers by the Department of Insurance. Existing law sets forth specified coverage requirements for health care service plan contracts and health insurance policies, and limits the copayment, coinsurance, deductible, and other cost sharing that may be imposed for specified health care services.This bill would require a health care service plan contract or health insurance policy issued, amended, or renewed on or after January 1, 2025, to provide coverage for the prophylaxis, diagnosis, and treatment of Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS) and Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) that is prescribed or ordered by the treating physician and surgeon and is medically necessary, as specified. The bill would prohibit coverage for PANDAS and PANS from being subject to a copayment, coinsurance, deductible, or other cost sharing that is greater than that applied to other benefits. The bill would prohibit a plan or insurer from denying or delaying coverage for PANDAS or PANS therapies because the enrollee or insured previously received treatment for PANDAS or PANS or was diagnosed with or received treatment for the condition under a different diagnostic name. Because a willful violation of these provisions by a health care service plan would be a crime, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.
2234
2335 Existing law, the Knox-Keene Health Care Service Plan Act of 1975, provides for the licensure and regulation of health care service plans by the Department of Managed Health Care, and makes a willful violation of the act a crime. Existing law provides for the regulation of health insurers by the Department of Insurance. Existing law sets forth specified coverage requirements for health care service plan contracts and health insurance policies, and limits the copayment, coinsurance, deductible, and other cost sharing that may be imposed for specified health care services.
2436
2537 This bill would require a health care service plan contract or health insurance policy issued, amended, or renewed on or after January 1, 2025, to provide coverage for the prophylaxis, diagnosis, and treatment of Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS) and Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) that is prescribed or ordered by the treating physician and surgeon and is medically necessary, as specified. The bill would prohibit coverage for PANDAS and PANS from being subject to a copayment, coinsurance, deductible, or other cost sharing that is greater than that applied to other benefits. The bill would prohibit a plan or insurer from denying or delaying coverage for PANDAS or PANS therapies because the enrollee or insured previously received treatment for PANDAS or PANS or was diagnosed with or received treatment for the condition under a different diagnostic name. Because a willful violation of these provisions by a health care service plan would be a crime, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.
2638
2739 The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.
2840
2941 This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.
3042
3143 ## Digest Key
3244
3345 ## Bill Text
3446
3547 The people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. Section 1367.38 is added to the Health and Safety Code, to read:1367.38. (a) A health care service plan contract issued, amended, or renewed on or after January 1, 2025, shall provide coverage for the prophylaxis, diagnosis, and treatment of Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS) and Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) that is prescribed or ordered by the treating physician and surgeon and is medically necessary, as defined by current nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines by expert treating physicians published in peer-reviewed medical literature. Treatment for PANDAS and PANS that shall be covered includes antibiotics, medication and behavioral therapies to manage neuropsychiatric symptoms, immunomodulating medicines, plasma exchange, and intravenous immunoglobulin therapy.(b) Coverage for PANDAS and PANS shall not be subject to a copayment, coinsurance, deductible, or other cost sharing that is greater than that applied to other benefits provided by the contract.(c) (1) A required authorization for PANDAS and PANS prophylaxis, diagnosis, or treatment shall be provided in a timely manner that is appropriate for the severity of an enrollees condition pursuant to Section 1367.03.(2) A health care service plan shall not deny or delay coverage for PANDAS or PANS therapies because the enrollee previously received treatment, including the same or similar treatment, for PANDAS or PANS, or because the enrollee was diagnosed with or received treatment for their condition under a different diagnostic name, including autoimmune encephalopathy.(3) A health care service plan shall not limit coverage of immunomodulating therapies for PANDAS or PANS in a manner that is inconsistent with the treatment recommendations pursuant to subdivision (d), and shall not require a trial of therapies that treat only neuropsychiatric symptoms before authorizing coverage of immunomodulating therapies pursuant to this section.(d) Coverage for PANDAS and PANS shall adhere to the treatment recommendations delineated in current clinical practice guidelines published in peer-reviewed medical literature or put forth by organizations composed of expert treating clinicians.(e) For billing and diagnostic purposes, PANDAS and PANS shall be coded as autoimmune encephalitis until the American Medical Association and the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services create and assign a specific code or codes for PANDAS and PANS. After the creation of that code or codes, PANDAS and PANS may be coded as autoimmune encephalitis, PANDAS, or PANS. If PANDAS or PANS is known by a different common name in the future, it may be coded under that name and this section shall apply to that disorder or syndrome.(f) This section does not apply to a specialized health care service plan contract that covers dental or vision benefits or a Medicare supplement policy.SEC. 2. Section 10123.38 is added to the Insurance Code, to read:10123.38. (a) A health insurance policy issued, amended, or renewed on or after January 1, 2025, shall provide coverage for the prophylaxis, diagnosis, and treatment of Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS) and Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) that is prescribed or ordered by the treating physician and surgeon and is medically necessary, as defined by current nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines by expert treating physicians published in peer-reviewed medical literature. Treatment for PANDAS and PANS that shall be covered includes antibiotics, medication and behavioral therapies to manage neuropsychiatric symptoms, immunomodulating medicines, plasma exchange, and intravenous immunoglobulin therapy.(b) Coverage for PANDAS and PANS shall not be subject to a copayment, coinsurance, deductible, or other cost sharing that is greater than that applied to other benefits provided by the policy.(c) (1) A required authorization for PANDAS and PANS prophylaxis, diagnosis, or treatment shall be provided in a timely manner that is appropriate for the severity of an insureds condition pursuant to Section 10133.54.(2) A health insurer shall not deny or delay coverage for PANDAS or PANS therapies because the insured previously received treatment, including the same or similar treatment, for PANDAS or PANS, or because the insured was diagnosed with or received treatment for their condition under a different diagnostic name, including autoimmune encephalopathy.(3) A health insurer shall not limit coverage of immunomodulating therapies for PANDAS or PANS in a manner that is inconsistent with the treatment recommendations pursuant to subdivision (d), and shall not require a trial of therapies that treat only neuropsychiatric symptoms before authorizing coverage of immunomodulating therapies pursuant to this section.(d) Coverage for PANDAS and PANS shall adhere to the treatment recommendations delineated in current clinical practice guidelines published in peer-reviewed medical literature or put forth by organizations composed of expert treating clinicians.(e) For billing and diagnostic purposes, PANDAS and PANS shall be coded as autoimmune encephalitis until the American Medical Association and the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services create and assign a specific code or codes for PANDAS and PANS. After the creation of that code or codes, PANDAS and PANS may be coded as autoimmune encephalitis, PANDAS, or PANS. If PANDAS or PANS is known by a different common name in the future, it may be coded under that name and this section shall apply to that disorder or syndrome.(f) This section does not apply to a specialized health insurance policy that covers dental or vision benefits or a Medicare supplement policy.SEC. 3. No reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution because the only costs that may be incurred by a local agency or school district will be incurred because this act creates a new crime or infraction, eliminates a crime or infraction, or changes the penalty for a crime or infraction, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code, or changes the definition of a crime within the meaning of Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution.
3648
3749 The people of the State of California do enact as follows:
3850
3951 ## The people of the State of California do enact as follows:
4052
4153 SECTION 1. Section 1367.38 is added to the Health and Safety Code, to read:1367.38. (a) A health care service plan contract issued, amended, or renewed on or after January 1, 2025, shall provide coverage for the prophylaxis, diagnosis, and treatment of Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS) and Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) that is prescribed or ordered by the treating physician and surgeon and is medically necessary, as defined by current nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines by expert treating physicians published in peer-reviewed medical literature. Treatment for PANDAS and PANS that shall be covered includes antibiotics, medication and behavioral therapies to manage neuropsychiatric symptoms, immunomodulating medicines, plasma exchange, and intravenous immunoglobulin therapy.(b) Coverage for PANDAS and PANS shall not be subject to a copayment, coinsurance, deductible, or other cost sharing that is greater than that applied to other benefits provided by the contract.(c) (1) A required authorization for PANDAS and PANS prophylaxis, diagnosis, or treatment shall be provided in a timely manner that is appropriate for the severity of an enrollees condition pursuant to Section 1367.03.(2) A health care service plan shall not deny or delay coverage for PANDAS or PANS therapies because the enrollee previously received treatment, including the same or similar treatment, for PANDAS or PANS, or because the enrollee was diagnosed with or received treatment for their condition under a different diagnostic name, including autoimmune encephalopathy.(3) A health care service plan shall not limit coverage of immunomodulating therapies for PANDAS or PANS in a manner that is inconsistent with the treatment recommendations pursuant to subdivision (d), and shall not require a trial of therapies that treat only neuropsychiatric symptoms before authorizing coverage of immunomodulating therapies pursuant to this section.(d) Coverage for PANDAS and PANS shall adhere to the treatment recommendations delineated in current clinical practice guidelines published in peer-reviewed medical literature or put forth by organizations composed of expert treating clinicians.(e) For billing and diagnostic purposes, PANDAS and PANS shall be coded as autoimmune encephalitis until the American Medical Association and the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services create and assign a specific code or codes for PANDAS and PANS. After the creation of that code or codes, PANDAS and PANS may be coded as autoimmune encephalitis, PANDAS, or PANS. If PANDAS or PANS is known by a different common name in the future, it may be coded under that name and this section shall apply to that disorder or syndrome.(f) This section does not apply to a specialized health care service plan contract that covers dental or vision benefits or a Medicare supplement policy.
4254
4355 SECTION 1. Section 1367.38 is added to the Health and Safety Code, to read:
4456
4557 ### SECTION 1.
4658
4759 1367.38. (a) A health care service plan contract issued, amended, or renewed on or after January 1, 2025, shall provide coverage for the prophylaxis, diagnosis, and treatment of Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS) and Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) that is prescribed or ordered by the treating physician and surgeon and is medically necessary, as defined by current nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines by expert treating physicians published in peer-reviewed medical literature. Treatment for PANDAS and PANS that shall be covered includes antibiotics, medication and behavioral therapies to manage neuropsychiatric symptoms, immunomodulating medicines, plasma exchange, and intravenous immunoglobulin therapy.(b) Coverage for PANDAS and PANS shall not be subject to a copayment, coinsurance, deductible, or other cost sharing that is greater than that applied to other benefits provided by the contract.(c) (1) A required authorization for PANDAS and PANS prophylaxis, diagnosis, or treatment shall be provided in a timely manner that is appropriate for the severity of an enrollees condition pursuant to Section 1367.03.(2) A health care service plan shall not deny or delay coverage for PANDAS or PANS therapies because the enrollee previously received treatment, including the same or similar treatment, for PANDAS or PANS, or because the enrollee was diagnosed with or received treatment for their condition under a different diagnostic name, including autoimmune encephalopathy.(3) A health care service plan shall not limit coverage of immunomodulating therapies for PANDAS or PANS in a manner that is inconsistent with the treatment recommendations pursuant to subdivision (d), and shall not require a trial of therapies that treat only neuropsychiatric symptoms before authorizing coverage of immunomodulating therapies pursuant to this section.(d) Coverage for PANDAS and PANS shall adhere to the treatment recommendations delineated in current clinical practice guidelines published in peer-reviewed medical literature or put forth by organizations composed of expert treating clinicians.(e) For billing and diagnostic purposes, PANDAS and PANS shall be coded as autoimmune encephalitis until the American Medical Association and the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services create and assign a specific code or codes for PANDAS and PANS. After the creation of that code or codes, PANDAS and PANS may be coded as autoimmune encephalitis, PANDAS, or PANS. If PANDAS or PANS is known by a different common name in the future, it may be coded under that name and this section shall apply to that disorder or syndrome.(f) This section does not apply to a specialized health care service plan contract that covers dental or vision benefits or a Medicare supplement policy.
4860
4961 1367.38. (a) A health care service plan contract issued, amended, or renewed on or after January 1, 2025, shall provide coverage for the prophylaxis, diagnosis, and treatment of Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS) and Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) that is prescribed or ordered by the treating physician and surgeon and is medically necessary, as defined by current nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines by expert treating physicians published in peer-reviewed medical literature. Treatment for PANDAS and PANS that shall be covered includes antibiotics, medication and behavioral therapies to manage neuropsychiatric symptoms, immunomodulating medicines, plasma exchange, and intravenous immunoglobulin therapy.(b) Coverage for PANDAS and PANS shall not be subject to a copayment, coinsurance, deductible, or other cost sharing that is greater than that applied to other benefits provided by the contract.(c) (1) A required authorization for PANDAS and PANS prophylaxis, diagnosis, or treatment shall be provided in a timely manner that is appropriate for the severity of an enrollees condition pursuant to Section 1367.03.(2) A health care service plan shall not deny or delay coverage for PANDAS or PANS therapies because the enrollee previously received treatment, including the same or similar treatment, for PANDAS or PANS, or because the enrollee was diagnosed with or received treatment for their condition under a different diagnostic name, including autoimmune encephalopathy.(3) A health care service plan shall not limit coverage of immunomodulating therapies for PANDAS or PANS in a manner that is inconsistent with the treatment recommendations pursuant to subdivision (d), and shall not require a trial of therapies that treat only neuropsychiatric symptoms before authorizing coverage of immunomodulating therapies pursuant to this section.(d) Coverage for PANDAS and PANS shall adhere to the treatment recommendations delineated in current clinical practice guidelines published in peer-reviewed medical literature or put forth by organizations composed of expert treating clinicians.(e) For billing and diagnostic purposes, PANDAS and PANS shall be coded as autoimmune encephalitis until the American Medical Association and the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services create and assign a specific code or codes for PANDAS and PANS. After the creation of that code or codes, PANDAS and PANS may be coded as autoimmune encephalitis, PANDAS, or PANS. If PANDAS or PANS is known by a different common name in the future, it may be coded under that name and this section shall apply to that disorder or syndrome.(f) This section does not apply to a specialized health care service plan contract that covers dental or vision benefits or a Medicare supplement policy.
5062
5163 1367.38. (a) A health care service plan contract issued, amended, or renewed on or after January 1, 2025, shall provide coverage for the prophylaxis, diagnosis, and treatment of Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS) and Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) that is prescribed or ordered by the treating physician and surgeon and is medically necessary, as defined by current nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines by expert treating physicians published in peer-reviewed medical literature. Treatment for PANDAS and PANS that shall be covered includes antibiotics, medication and behavioral therapies to manage neuropsychiatric symptoms, immunomodulating medicines, plasma exchange, and intravenous immunoglobulin therapy.(b) Coverage for PANDAS and PANS shall not be subject to a copayment, coinsurance, deductible, or other cost sharing that is greater than that applied to other benefits provided by the contract.(c) (1) A required authorization for PANDAS and PANS prophylaxis, diagnosis, or treatment shall be provided in a timely manner that is appropriate for the severity of an enrollees condition pursuant to Section 1367.03.(2) A health care service plan shall not deny or delay coverage for PANDAS or PANS therapies because the enrollee previously received treatment, including the same or similar treatment, for PANDAS or PANS, or because the enrollee was diagnosed with or received treatment for their condition under a different diagnostic name, including autoimmune encephalopathy.(3) A health care service plan shall not limit coverage of immunomodulating therapies for PANDAS or PANS in a manner that is inconsistent with the treatment recommendations pursuant to subdivision (d), and shall not require a trial of therapies that treat only neuropsychiatric symptoms before authorizing coverage of immunomodulating therapies pursuant to this section.(d) Coverage for PANDAS and PANS shall adhere to the treatment recommendations delineated in current clinical practice guidelines published in peer-reviewed medical literature or put forth by organizations composed of expert treating clinicians.(e) For billing and diagnostic purposes, PANDAS and PANS shall be coded as autoimmune encephalitis until the American Medical Association and the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services create and assign a specific code or codes for PANDAS and PANS. After the creation of that code or codes, PANDAS and PANS may be coded as autoimmune encephalitis, PANDAS, or PANS. If PANDAS or PANS is known by a different common name in the future, it may be coded under that name and this section shall apply to that disorder or syndrome.(f) This section does not apply to a specialized health care service plan contract that covers dental or vision benefits or a Medicare supplement policy.
5264
5365
5466
5567 1367.38. (a) A health care service plan contract issued, amended, or renewed on or after January 1, 2025, shall provide coverage for the prophylaxis, diagnosis, and treatment of Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS) and Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) that is prescribed or ordered by the treating physician and surgeon and is medically necessary, as defined by current nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines by expert treating physicians published in peer-reviewed medical literature. Treatment for PANDAS and PANS that shall be covered includes antibiotics, medication and behavioral therapies to manage neuropsychiatric symptoms, immunomodulating medicines, plasma exchange, and intravenous immunoglobulin therapy.
5668
5769 (b) Coverage for PANDAS and PANS shall not be subject to a copayment, coinsurance, deductible, or other cost sharing that is greater than that applied to other benefits provided by the contract.
5870
5971 (c) (1) A required authorization for PANDAS and PANS prophylaxis, diagnosis, or treatment shall be provided in a timely manner that is appropriate for the severity of an enrollees condition pursuant to Section 1367.03.
6072
6173 (2) A health care service plan shall not deny or delay coverage for PANDAS or PANS therapies because the enrollee previously received treatment, including the same or similar treatment, for PANDAS or PANS, or because the enrollee was diagnosed with or received treatment for their condition under a different diagnostic name, including autoimmune encephalopathy.
6274
6375 (3) A health care service plan shall not limit coverage of immunomodulating therapies for PANDAS or PANS in a manner that is inconsistent with the treatment recommendations pursuant to subdivision (d), and shall not require a trial of therapies that treat only neuropsychiatric symptoms before authorizing coverage of immunomodulating therapies pursuant to this section.
6476
6577 (d) Coverage for PANDAS and PANS shall adhere to the treatment recommendations delineated in current clinical practice guidelines published in peer-reviewed medical literature or put forth by organizations composed of expert treating clinicians.
6678
6779 (e) For billing and diagnostic purposes, PANDAS and PANS shall be coded as autoimmune encephalitis until the American Medical Association and the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services create and assign a specific code or codes for PANDAS and PANS. After the creation of that code or codes, PANDAS and PANS may be coded as autoimmune encephalitis, PANDAS, or PANS. If PANDAS or PANS is known by a different common name in the future, it may be coded under that name and this section shall apply to that disorder or syndrome.
6880
6981 (f) This section does not apply to a specialized health care service plan contract that covers dental or vision benefits or a Medicare supplement policy.
7082
7183 SEC. 2. Section 10123.38 is added to the Insurance Code, to read:10123.38. (a) A health insurance policy issued, amended, or renewed on or after January 1, 2025, shall provide coverage for the prophylaxis, diagnosis, and treatment of Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS) and Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) that is prescribed or ordered by the treating physician and surgeon and is medically necessary, as defined by current nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines by expert treating physicians published in peer-reviewed medical literature. Treatment for PANDAS and PANS that shall be covered includes antibiotics, medication and behavioral therapies to manage neuropsychiatric symptoms, immunomodulating medicines, plasma exchange, and intravenous immunoglobulin therapy.(b) Coverage for PANDAS and PANS shall not be subject to a copayment, coinsurance, deductible, or other cost sharing that is greater than that applied to other benefits provided by the policy.(c) (1) A required authorization for PANDAS and PANS prophylaxis, diagnosis, or treatment shall be provided in a timely manner that is appropriate for the severity of an insureds condition pursuant to Section 10133.54.(2) A health insurer shall not deny or delay coverage for PANDAS or PANS therapies because the insured previously received treatment, including the same or similar treatment, for PANDAS or PANS, or because the insured was diagnosed with or received treatment for their condition under a different diagnostic name, including autoimmune encephalopathy.(3) A health insurer shall not limit coverage of immunomodulating therapies for PANDAS or PANS in a manner that is inconsistent with the treatment recommendations pursuant to subdivision (d), and shall not require a trial of therapies that treat only neuropsychiatric symptoms before authorizing coverage of immunomodulating therapies pursuant to this section.(d) Coverage for PANDAS and PANS shall adhere to the treatment recommendations delineated in current clinical practice guidelines published in peer-reviewed medical literature or put forth by organizations composed of expert treating clinicians.(e) For billing and diagnostic purposes, PANDAS and PANS shall be coded as autoimmune encephalitis until the American Medical Association and the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services create and assign a specific code or codes for PANDAS and PANS. After the creation of that code or codes, PANDAS and PANS may be coded as autoimmune encephalitis, PANDAS, or PANS. If PANDAS or PANS is known by a different common name in the future, it may be coded under that name and this section shall apply to that disorder or syndrome.(f) This section does not apply to a specialized health insurance policy that covers dental or vision benefits or a Medicare supplement policy.
7284
7385 SEC. 2. Section 10123.38 is added to the Insurance Code, to read:
7486
7587 ### SEC. 2.
7688
7789 10123.38. (a) A health insurance policy issued, amended, or renewed on or after January 1, 2025, shall provide coverage for the prophylaxis, diagnosis, and treatment of Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS) and Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) that is prescribed or ordered by the treating physician and surgeon and is medically necessary, as defined by current nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines by expert treating physicians published in peer-reviewed medical literature. Treatment for PANDAS and PANS that shall be covered includes antibiotics, medication and behavioral therapies to manage neuropsychiatric symptoms, immunomodulating medicines, plasma exchange, and intravenous immunoglobulin therapy.(b) Coverage for PANDAS and PANS shall not be subject to a copayment, coinsurance, deductible, or other cost sharing that is greater than that applied to other benefits provided by the policy.(c) (1) A required authorization for PANDAS and PANS prophylaxis, diagnosis, or treatment shall be provided in a timely manner that is appropriate for the severity of an insureds condition pursuant to Section 10133.54.(2) A health insurer shall not deny or delay coverage for PANDAS or PANS therapies because the insured previously received treatment, including the same or similar treatment, for PANDAS or PANS, or because the insured was diagnosed with or received treatment for their condition under a different diagnostic name, including autoimmune encephalopathy.(3) A health insurer shall not limit coverage of immunomodulating therapies for PANDAS or PANS in a manner that is inconsistent with the treatment recommendations pursuant to subdivision (d), and shall not require a trial of therapies that treat only neuropsychiatric symptoms before authorizing coverage of immunomodulating therapies pursuant to this section.(d) Coverage for PANDAS and PANS shall adhere to the treatment recommendations delineated in current clinical practice guidelines published in peer-reviewed medical literature or put forth by organizations composed of expert treating clinicians.(e) For billing and diagnostic purposes, PANDAS and PANS shall be coded as autoimmune encephalitis until the American Medical Association and the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services create and assign a specific code or codes for PANDAS and PANS. After the creation of that code or codes, PANDAS and PANS may be coded as autoimmune encephalitis, PANDAS, or PANS. If PANDAS or PANS is known by a different common name in the future, it may be coded under that name and this section shall apply to that disorder or syndrome.(f) This section does not apply to a specialized health insurance policy that covers dental or vision benefits or a Medicare supplement policy.
7890
7991 10123.38. (a) A health insurance policy issued, amended, or renewed on or after January 1, 2025, shall provide coverage for the prophylaxis, diagnosis, and treatment of Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS) and Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) that is prescribed or ordered by the treating physician and surgeon and is medically necessary, as defined by current nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines by expert treating physicians published in peer-reviewed medical literature. Treatment for PANDAS and PANS that shall be covered includes antibiotics, medication and behavioral therapies to manage neuropsychiatric symptoms, immunomodulating medicines, plasma exchange, and intravenous immunoglobulin therapy.(b) Coverage for PANDAS and PANS shall not be subject to a copayment, coinsurance, deductible, or other cost sharing that is greater than that applied to other benefits provided by the policy.(c) (1) A required authorization for PANDAS and PANS prophylaxis, diagnosis, or treatment shall be provided in a timely manner that is appropriate for the severity of an insureds condition pursuant to Section 10133.54.(2) A health insurer shall not deny or delay coverage for PANDAS or PANS therapies because the insured previously received treatment, including the same or similar treatment, for PANDAS or PANS, or because the insured was diagnosed with or received treatment for their condition under a different diagnostic name, including autoimmune encephalopathy.(3) A health insurer shall not limit coverage of immunomodulating therapies for PANDAS or PANS in a manner that is inconsistent with the treatment recommendations pursuant to subdivision (d), and shall not require a trial of therapies that treat only neuropsychiatric symptoms before authorizing coverage of immunomodulating therapies pursuant to this section.(d) Coverage for PANDAS and PANS shall adhere to the treatment recommendations delineated in current clinical practice guidelines published in peer-reviewed medical literature or put forth by organizations composed of expert treating clinicians.(e) For billing and diagnostic purposes, PANDAS and PANS shall be coded as autoimmune encephalitis until the American Medical Association and the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services create and assign a specific code or codes for PANDAS and PANS. After the creation of that code or codes, PANDAS and PANS may be coded as autoimmune encephalitis, PANDAS, or PANS. If PANDAS or PANS is known by a different common name in the future, it may be coded under that name and this section shall apply to that disorder or syndrome.(f) This section does not apply to a specialized health insurance policy that covers dental or vision benefits or a Medicare supplement policy.
8092
8193 10123.38. (a) A health insurance policy issued, amended, or renewed on or after January 1, 2025, shall provide coverage for the prophylaxis, diagnosis, and treatment of Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS) and Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) that is prescribed or ordered by the treating physician and surgeon and is medically necessary, as defined by current nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines by expert treating physicians published in peer-reviewed medical literature. Treatment for PANDAS and PANS that shall be covered includes antibiotics, medication and behavioral therapies to manage neuropsychiatric symptoms, immunomodulating medicines, plasma exchange, and intravenous immunoglobulin therapy.(b) Coverage for PANDAS and PANS shall not be subject to a copayment, coinsurance, deductible, or other cost sharing that is greater than that applied to other benefits provided by the policy.(c) (1) A required authorization for PANDAS and PANS prophylaxis, diagnosis, or treatment shall be provided in a timely manner that is appropriate for the severity of an insureds condition pursuant to Section 10133.54.(2) A health insurer shall not deny or delay coverage for PANDAS or PANS therapies because the insured previously received treatment, including the same or similar treatment, for PANDAS or PANS, or because the insured was diagnosed with or received treatment for their condition under a different diagnostic name, including autoimmune encephalopathy.(3) A health insurer shall not limit coverage of immunomodulating therapies for PANDAS or PANS in a manner that is inconsistent with the treatment recommendations pursuant to subdivision (d), and shall not require a trial of therapies that treat only neuropsychiatric symptoms before authorizing coverage of immunomodulating therapies pursuant to this section.(d) Coverage for PANDAS and PANS shall adhere to the treatment recommendations delineated in current clinical practice guidelines published in peer-reviewed medical literature or put forth by organizations composed of expert treating clinicians.(e) For billing and diagnostic purposes, PANDAS and PANS shall be coded as autoimmune encephalitis until the American Medical Association and the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services create and assign a specific code or codes for PANDAS and PANS. After the creation of that code or codes, PANDAS and PANS may be coded as autoimmune encephalitis, PANDAS, or PANS. If PANDAS or PANS is known by a different common name in the future, it may be coded under that name and this section shall apply to that disorder or syndrome.(f) This section does not apply to a specialized health insurance policy that covers dental or vision benefits or a Medicare supplement policy.
8294
8395
8496
8597 10123.38. (a) A health insurance policy issued, amended, or renewed on or after January 1, 2025, shall provide coverage for the prophylaxis, diagnosis, and treatment of Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS) and Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) that is prescribed or ordered by the treating physician and surgeon and is medically necessary, as defined by current nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines by expert treating physicians published in peer-reviewed medical literature. Treatment for PANDAS and PANS that shall be covered includes antibiotics, medication and behavioral therapies to manage neuropsychiatric symptoms, immunomodulating medicines, plasma exchange, and intravenous immunoglobulin therapy.
8698
8799 (b) Coverage for PANDAS and PANS shall not be subject to a copayment, coinsurance, deductible, or other cost sharing that is greater than that applied to other benefits provided by the policy.
88100
89101 (c) (1) A required authorization for PANDAS and PANS prophylaxis, diagnosis, or treatment shall be provided in a timely manner that is appropriate for the severity of an insureds condition pursuant to Section 10133.54.
90102
91103 (2) A health insurer shall not deny or delay coverage for PANDAS or PANS therapies because the insured previously received treatment, including the same or similar treatment, for PANDAS or PANS, or because the insured was diagnosed with or received treatment for their condition under a different diagnostic name, including autoimmune encephalopathy.
92104
93105 (3) A health insurer shall not limit coverage of immunomodulating therapies for PANDAS or PANS in a manner that is inconsistent with the treatment recommendations pursuant to subdivision (d), and shall not require a trial of therapies that treat only neuropsychiatric symptoms before authorizing coverage of immunomodulating therapies pursuant to this section.
94106
95107 (d) Coverage for PANDAS and PANS shall adhere to the treatment recommendations delineated in current clinical practice guidelines published in peer-reviewed medical literature or put forth by organizations composed of expert treating clinicians.
96108
97109 (e) For billing and diagnostic purposes, PANDAS and PANS shall be coded as autoimmune encephalitis until the American Medical Association and the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services create and assign a specific code or codes for PANDAS and PANS. After the creation of that code or codes, PANDAS and PANS may be coded as autoimmune encephalitis, PANDAS, or PANS. If PANDAS or PANS is known by a different common name in the future, it may be coded under that name and this section shall apply to that disorder or syndrome.
98110
99111 (f) This section does not apply to a specialized health insurance policy that covers dental or vision benefits or a Medicare supplement policy.
100112
101113 SEC. 3. No reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution because the only costs that may be incurred by a local agency or school district will be incurred because this act creates a new crime or infraction, eliminates a crime or infraction, or changes the penalty for a crime or infraction, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code, or changes the definition of a crime within the meaning of Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution.
102114
103115 SEC. 3. No reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution because the only costs that may be incurred by a local agency or school district will be incurred because this act creates a new crime or infraction, eliminates a crime or infraction, or changes the penalty for a crime or infraction, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code, or changes the definition of a crime within the meaning of Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution.
104116
105117 SEC. 3. No reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution because the only costs that may be incurred by a local agency or school district will be incurred because this act creates a new crime or infraction, eliminates a crime or infraction, or changes the penalty for a crime or infraction, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code, or changes the definition of a crime within the meaning of Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution.
106118
107119 ### SEC. 3.