Connecticut Senate Bill SB00398

Connecticut 2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/2/18
• Refer: 3/2/18

Caption

An Act Concerning Penalties For Failure To Comply With Provisions Governing The Use Of Step Therapy For Prescription Drugs.

Impact

The bill seeks to amend Section 38a-548 of the General Statutes, particularly concerning the penalties for violations related to step therapy protocols. This would impose a fine of up to one thousand dollars per offense on insurers and related entities that do not uphold the statutory regulations. Additionally, the bill grants the commissioner the authority to revoke licenses of organizations failing to adhere to the new provisions. By tightening these penalties, proponents believe the legislation will not only protect patients' rights but also deter future violations by enforcing a stricter regulatory framework.

Summary

SB00398, titled 'An Act Concerning Penalties for Failure to Comply with Provisions Governing the Use of Step Therapy for Prescription Drugs', aims to enforce stricter penalties on insurers and healthcare entities that fail to conform to existing laws governing step therapy practices. This legislation intends to enhance compliance and accountability among health care providers, ensuring that patients receive appropriate access to prescribed medications as outlined by step therapy guidelines. Under the proposed changes, non-compliance could result in substantial fines and potential license revocation for offending parties.

Contention

While the intent of SB00398 is to safeguard patient access to necessary pharmaceutical therapies, it may also face opposition from some healthcare providers and insurance companies. Critics could argue that increased penalties may lead to a more stringent enforcement environment that could hinder the flexibility necessary for patient care, especially in complex clinical situations where step therapy might not be the most appropriate initial treatment. Thus, while the legislation aims to improve compliance, it could also spark debates about the balance between regulatory oversight and the autonomy of healthcare providers.