Insurance; affordable healthcare coverage for individuals diagnosed with cardiovascular disease; provide
Impact
One significant aspect of the bill is the prohibition against insurers raising premiums for covered individuals aged 40 to 64 solely due to a cardiovascular disease diagnosis. Additionally, insurers are barred from denying, canceling, or refusing to renew policies based on such a diagnosis for individuals within this age group. These changes aim to protect individuals from age discrimination in healthcare access and financial liabilities associated with their health conditions.
Summary
House Bill 67, known as the 'Georgia Healthy Heart Act,' seeks to enhance affordable healthcare coverage for individuals diagnosed with cardiovascular disease. The bill amends Chapter 24 of Title 33 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, focusing on health benefit policies. It requires insurers to ensure that cost-sharing requirements for preventive and wellness services are at least as favorable as those for chronic disease management. This provision aims to facilitate access and affordability for necessary healthcare services related to cardiovascular treatment.
Contention
The proposed legislation presents potential points of contention within the broader discussions on healthcare regulation in Georgia. Advocates for the bill argue that it directly addresses issues of affordability and accessibility for a segment of the population that is often underserved. Conversely, opponents may raise concerns regarding the financial impact on insurers who are mandated to adjust their policies without a corresponding adjustment in risk assessment, potentially driving up costs across the board. Hence, the efficacy of balancing insurer profitability with patient care remains a critical concern that could influence future legislative discussions.