Connecticut House Bill HB07166

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/21/19
• Refer: 2/21/19
• Report Pass: 3/7/19
• Refer: 3/15/19
• Report Pass: 3/21/19
• Engrossed: 5/23/19
• Report Pass: 5/28/19

Caption

An Act Concerning Nonemergency Medical Transportation For Medicaid Beneficiaries.

Impact

If enacted, HB 7166 would significantly alter the landscape of healthcare access for Medicaid beneficiaries in the state, reinforcing the imperative that transportation services are provided efficiently and adequately. Particularly, the bill stipulates that beneficiaries must not face excessive waiting times for transport, which is vital in ensuring they receive timely healthcare interventions. Furthermore, the legislation includes provisions allowing beneficiaries to seek civil injunctive relief if their transportation needs are inadequately met, thereby empowering them to hold the state accountable for compliance with the requirements set forth by the bill.

Summary

House Bill 7166 aims to ensure that eligible Medicaid beneficiaries receive coverage for nonemergency medical transportation upon their request. The bill mandates that the Commissioner of Social Services oversee the provision of nonemergency transportation, outlining specific requirements regarding waiting times and modes of transportation. This legislative move is intended to enhance healthcare access for those dependent on state medical assistance programs, thereby addressing a critical need for Medicaid recipients who require reliable transportation to medical appointments but lack personal means to do so.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 7166 appears supportive among advocacy groups and healthcare professionals who recognize the importance of nonemergency medical transportation as a means to dismantle barriers to healthcare access. By directly addressing issues that affect vulnerable populations, such as the inability to access necessary medical appointments due to transportation challenges, the bill is seen as a positive legislative advancement. However, there may be underlying concerns relating to the implementation of such services and the potential burden it could place on transportation providers.

Contention

While there is a general support for the goals of HB 7166, discussions among legislators and stakeholders highlight the need for a robust transportation provider network capable of meeting the outlined requirements. Additionally, there are potential concerns about the fiscal implications of expanding transportation services under Medicaid, which could lead to debates over funding priorities within the healthcare budget. Ultimately, the successful passage and implementation of the bill will depend on addressing these logistical and financial considerations to ensure that the intended benefits are realized.