Connecticut 2013 Regular Session

Connecticut Senate Bill SB00858

Introduced
2/7/13  
Introduced
2/7/13  
Refer
2/7/13  
Refer
2/7/13  
Report Pass
2/26/13  
Report Pass
2/26/13  
Refer
3/4/13  
Report Pass
3/11/13  
Engrossed
4/18/13  
Report Pass
4/19/13  
Refer
4/24/13  
Refer
4/24/13  
Report Pass
4/30/13  

Caption

An Act Concerning Health Insurance Coverage For Telemedicine Services.

Impact

The passage of SB 00858 would amend existing health insurance regulations to mandate that health insurers provide coverage for telemedicine services. This change is expected to improve access to healthcare for residents, particularly in underserved areas where in-person visits may be logistically challenging. By aligning telemedicine coverage with that of traditional in-person visits, the bill seeks to eliminate potential coverage gaps that could hinder the quality and accessibility of care, thus promoting better health outcomes across the state.

Summary

Senate Bill 00858, known as 'An Act Concerning Health Insurance Coverage for Telemedicine Services', aims to ensure that health insurance policies in Connecticut provide coverage for telemedicine services on par with in-person consultations. This legislation addresses the growing need for telehealth options, especially in light of the increasing reliance on remote healthcare during the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill defines telemedicine to include interactive audio, video, or data communications used to deliver medical advice, diagnosis, care, or treatment, excluding only facsimile and audio-only telephone communications.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 00858 appears generally positive, with support from healthcare professionals and advocates who recognize the significance of telemedicine in expanding patient access. Legislative discussions reflect a desire to modernize healthcare practices and acknowledge the role that technology plays in improving healthcare delivery. However, there are concerns about the quality of care delivered through telemedicine and the need for clear regulations to ensure that standards are maintained.

Contention

While the overall reception of the bill seems favorable, notable points of contention include the potential for reduced personal interaction between healthcare providers and patients, which some critics argue could compromise the quality of diagnosis and treatment. Stakeholders have raised questions about the adequacy of training for providers utilizing telemedicine and whether reimbursement rates will be fair compared to in-person services. Addressing these concerns will be crucial as the bill moves forward to ensure that telemedicine effectively supplements traditional healthcare methods without sacrificing care quality.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CT HB05460

An Act Concerning Health Insurance Coverage For Ambulance Services.

CT HB05378

An Act Concerning Health Insurance Coverage For The Diagnosis And Treatment Of Infertility.

CT HB05198

An Act Concerning Telehealth.

CT HB05248

An Act Concerning Health Benefit Review.

CT HB05240

An Act Concerning Medicaid Coverage For Infertility Treatment.

CT SB00001

An Act Concerning The Health And Safety Of Connecticut Residents.

CT HB05160

An Act Concerning The Maintenance Of Liability Insurance Coverage By Child Care Centers, Group Child Care Homes And Family Child Care Homes.

CT SB00179

An Act Concerning Rates For Ambulance And Paramedic Services.

CT HB05250

An Act Concerning Self-service Storage Insurance.

CT SB00401

An Act Concerning The Availability Of Telehealth Providers In Determining Network Adequacy And Extending The Telehealth Provisions Adopted During The Covid-19 Pandemic.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.