Requests the Department of Insurance to study the effects on insureds and healthcare providers of the increasing amount of deductibles and coinsurance obligations required by many health insurance products being offered to Louisiana citizens
Impact
The outcome of this study is intended to shed light on how such financial obligations affect the behavior of insureds and the operational challenges faced by healthcare providers. The resolution further requests hospitals to report the total amounts of uncollected coinsurance and deductible obligations, which could inform future policy decisions and enhance understanding within the healthcare community regarding the implications of these trends. The ultimate goal is to identify potential solutions to these growing problems, thereby contributing to the overall stability and accessibility of health insurance in Louisiana.
Summary
House Concurrent Resolution 187 (HCR187) urges the Louisiana Department of Insurance to conduct a study examining the impact of rising deductibles and coinsurance obligations on insured individuals and healthcare providers. The resolution emphasizes a significant trend in the Louisiana market where health insurance products require insureds to pay high deductibles and substantial percentages for coinsurance, potentially leading to increased out-of-pocket costs for consumers. The average deductible for policies offered on the state’s health insurance exchange is reportedly around $2,200, with some plans requiring as much as $6,600 per person for a deductible, showcasing the financial burden on policyholders.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HCR187 appears to be supportive among stakeholders who recognize the growing problems related to high deductibles and coinsurance in health insurance products. Legislators have exhibited a proactive approach by urging a study, indicating an acknowledgment of the complexities faced by both insured individuals and healthcare providers. Nevertheless, there are underlying concerns regarding the accountability and transparency of health insurance practices, as evidenced by the need for reports on uncollected amounts, which could reflect broader issues in healthcare access and affordability.
Contention
While there is a general consensus on the need for a thorough examination of the impact of these rising costs, potential contention arises about the best methods to address the findings of the study. Stakeholders may differ on how to implement changes based on the report's outcomes, particularly in balancing insurer obligations, consumer protections, and the financial sustainability of healthcare providers. HCR187 moves toward a significant exploration of the healthcare landscape in Louisiana, but subsequent actions will have to navigate the complexities of health policy reform.
Requests the Louisiana Department of Insurance to study prohibiting insurers from using claims that did not exceed the insured's deductible to cancel coverage
Requests the Department of Insurance to study and issue a report relative to the impact of health insurance coverage mandates on the cost of health insurance
Requests the Louisiana Department of Health to study the desirability and feasibility of increasing the minimum age to purchase tobacco products to twenty-one