Connecticut Senate Bill SB00400

Connecticut 2010 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/4/10
• Refer: 3/4/10
• Report Pass: 3/19/10
• Refer: 4/1/10
• Report Pass: 4/8/10
• Refer: 4/14/10
• Report Pass: 4/21/10
• Engrossed: 5/1/10
• Report Pass: 5/1/10
• Chaptered: 5/19/10
• Enrolled: 5/24/10
• Passed: 6/7/10

Caption

An Act Concerning Insurance Reimbursement Payments To School-based Health Centers.

Impact

The enactment of SB00400 is expected to significantly enhance the operational capacity of school-based health centers. By obligating insurers to provide reimbursement, the bill seeks to alleviate financial barriers that may prevent these centers from offering comprehensive services. It will likely lead to improved health outcomes for students, particularly in underserved areas, by ensuring that necessary health services are not only available but also financially supported, which is crucial for the sustainability of these health centers.

Summary

Senate Bill No. 400, also known as an Act Concerning Insurance Reimbursement Payments To School-Based Health Centers, aims to mandate health insurers licensed to operate in the state to contract with school-based health centers for reimbursement of covered health care services. The intention is to ensure that these centers receive fair and equitable treatment, much like other service providers, thereby enhancing the accessibility of health services for students. The bill is fundamentally focused on improving the healthcare landscape for students by securing financial support for school-based health initiatives.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SB00400 appears to be positive, particularly among health advocates and educators who emphasize the importance of accessible healthcare for students. The bill is seen as a proactive step towards addressing health disparities and ensuring that all students have the opportunity to receive necessary medical care during school hours. However, some concerns were raised regarding potential fiscal impacts on insurance providers, with some stakeholders questioning the feasibility and sustainability of mandated reimbursements.

Contention

While most discussions have been supportive of the measures proposed in SB00400, a notable point of contention has surfaced around the nature of contracts that insurers would be required to offer. Some critics argue that the terms and conditions should be carefully defined to prevent loopholes that could undermine the bill's intent. Furthermore, there were discussions on the implications for smaller health centers which may struggle to negotiate similar contracts as larger providers, raising concerns about equitable treatment under the proposed regulations.