Connecticut House Bill HB06817

Connecticut 2025 Regular Session

Caption

An Act Requiring The Insurance Department To Study Health Carrier Use Of Prior Authorizations.

Impact

If passed, HB 6817 could significantly change how health insurance interacts with patients seeking medical care. By studying the prior authorization process, the bill initiates a critical examination of barriers that patients may face in accessing medically necessary treatments. This could lead to more streamlined processes, potentially allowing for quicker access to care and fewer denied claims based on authorization issues, thereby aiming to improve overall patient outcomes.

Summary

House Bill 6817 is aimed at addressing the processes employed by health carriers regarding prior authorizations for medically necessary healthcare treatments. The proposed legislation calls for the Insurance Department to conduct a study that delves into how health carriers utilize the prior authorization system, which is often critiqued for being a barrier to timely medical care. The study will evaluate the feasibility of instituting a limited formulary of prescription drugs and medical services that would be subject to prior authorization requirements. Additionally, the bill seeks to explore potential penalties for health carriers that contravene such formularies.

Contention

The introduction of this bill may spark discussions among healthcare stakeholders, particularly between health insurance providers, healthcare providers, and patient advocacy groups. Proponents of the bill may argue that a study on prior authorization is essential to understand its implications on patient care, while critics may express concerns about potential restrictions on health insurers' ability to manage costs or ensure appropriate care. The outcomes of this study could inform future legislation that may further regulate the activities of health carriers concerning patient care.