Connecticut House Bill HB05820

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/23
• Refer: 1/18/23

Caption

An Act Authorizing Association Health Plans For Group And Solo Practices And Exempting Practices Covered Under Such Plans From Certain Provisions Of The Insurance Statutes.

Impact

The proposed changes in HB 5820 would exempt these newly formed groups from certain existing provisions in the insurance regulations that typically apply to small employers. Such exemptions may make it easier and more cost-effective for these practices to offer health benefits, potentially leading to a broader availability of healthcare insurance among smaller entities. This could result in enhanced financial stability for these practices as well as improved health coverage for their employees.

Summary

House Bill 5820 aims to authorize association health plans specifically for group and solo medical practices. The bill requires the Insurance Commissioner to establish regulations that will allow multiple practices to form a bona fide group or association for the purpose of providing health insurance coverage to their practitioners and employees. This is intended to streamline access to health insurance for small practices that often struggle with the costs and complexities of providing employee benefits individually.

Contention

Despite the potential benefits, there are concerns regarding the implications of exempting such groups from specific regulatory protections traditionally designed to protect employees. Critics may argue that this exemption could lead to fewer consumer protections in health insurance coverage offered to these association plans, highlighting the need for a careful balance between accessibility to insurance options and the safeguards necessary to ensure quality and comprehensive healthcare coverage.