Connecticut House Bill HB05965

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/17
• Refer: 1/19/17

Caption

An Act Requiring Insurance Coverage For Services Rendered By Acupuncturists.

Impact

Should HB 05965 be enacted, it would have significant implications on state law related to healthcare coverage. This would likely necessitate changes in insurance policy structures and could lead to an increased acceptance and integration of acupuncture treatment within conventional healthcare settings. It could enhance patient access to acupuncture, potentially resulting in greater patient choice and autonomy in their treatment options.

Summary

House Bill 05965 aims to require health insurance coverage for services rendered by licensed acupuncturists, treating these practitioners on par with physicians regarding insurance policies. This legislation seeks to amend chapter 700c of the general statutes, ensuring that the services offered by acupuncturists are covered to the same extent as those provided by medical doctors, thus promoting the inclusion of alternative and complementary medical practices within the healthcare system.

Contention

While the bill aims to expand healthcare options for patients, it may also bring about discussions around the broader implications of insurance coverage for alternative therapies. Some may argue about the cost implications on insurance premiums or the necessity of acupuncture as a covered service versus traditional medical services. There may also be advocacy from medical professionals who support regulated acupuncture as a legitimate medical practice, suggesting that incorporating it into health plans aligns with a holistic view of patient care.