DIGEST
The digest printed below was prepared by House Legislative Services. It constitutes no part of the
legislative instrument. The keyword, one-liner, abstract, and digest do not constitute part of the law
or proof or indicia of legislative intent. [R.S. 1:13(B) and 24:177(E)]
HB 152 Engrossed 2020 Regular Session Brown
Abstract: Requires insurance coverage for acupuncture performed by a licensed acupuncturist.
Proposed law requires any health coverage plan in the large market group, delivered or issued for
delivery in this state, to provide coverage for acupuncture performed by an individual licensed by
law, when the service is medically necessary and not otherwise excluded from coverage.
Proposed law prohibits terminology in a policy or contract deemed discriminatory against any person
or method of practice, including but not limited to the manner of payment or reimbursement under
the policy.
Proposed law provides that required coverage may be subject to annual deductibles, coinsurance, and
copayment provisions as are consistent with those established under the health coverage plan.
Proposed law provides that coverage for acupuncture treatment may be limited to 12 annual visits
per policy or contract.
Proposed law applies to any new policy, contract, program, or health coverage plan issued on and
after Jan. 1, 2021. Any policy, contract, or health coverage plan in effect prior to Jan. 1, 2021, shall
convert to conform to the provisions of proposed law on or before the renewal date, but no later than
Jan. 1, 2022.
Effective Jan. 1, 2021.
(Adds R.S. 22:1057)
Summary of Amendments Adopted by House
The Committee Amendments Proposed by House Committee on Insurance to the original bill:
1. Specify that the health coverage plan referenced in proposed law means the "large group
market" as defined in present law, (R.S. 22:1091(B)), and require the coverage of
acupuncture when medically necessary and not otherwise excluded from coverage.
2. Provide that coverage for acupuncture treatment may be limited to 12 annual visits per
policy or contract. 3. Change the effective date relative to policy, contract, or health coverage plan renewals
from Jan. 1, 2021 to Jan. 1, 2022.
4. Make technical changes.