An Act Concerning Health Insurance Coverage For Services Rendered By Acupuncturists.
Impact
If enacted, SB00098 would significantly impact health insurance policies within the state by mandating that both individual and group health insurance plans cover acupuncture services under the same conditions as physician services. This would enhance patient access to acupuncture treatments, making this alternative therapy more financially viable for individuals seeking such care. The law is set to take effect on January 1, 2017, if passed, and will necessitate updates to insurance policy terms across the state.
Summary
SB00098, titled 'An Act Concerning Health Insurance Coverage For Services Rendered By Acupuncturists', proposes to amend existing state statutes to establish health insurance coverage for services provided by licensed acupuncturists. The bill aims to ensure that the coverage for acupuncture services is equal to that provided for similar services rendered by physicians and chiropractors. This move is intended to recognize the growing acceptance and utilization of acupuncture as a valid form of medical treatment within the healthcare system.
Contention
While the bill addresses a gap in health coverage for alternative medicine practices, there may be points of contention among stakeholders, particularly among insurance providers concerned about the financial implications of increasing covered services. Supporters of acupuncture may argue that equitable insurance coverage is crucial for patient access and quality of care, while opponents may raise concerns about the potential for increased costs to insurers and the overall healthcare system, as well as questions regarding the clinical effectiveness of acupuncture in treating various conditions.
An Act Concerning Insurance Market Conduct And Insurance Licensing, The Insurance Department's Technical Corrections And Other Revisions To The Insurance Statutes And Captive Insurance.