Connecticut Senate Bill SB01077

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/22/23
• Refer: 2/22/23

Caption

An Act Concerning The Acceptance By Physicians Of Patients Who Are Medicaid Recipients.

Impact

One significant provision within the bill is the grant of immunity from civil and criminal liability to physicians who, in good faith, provide services to Medicaid patients. This immunity is designed to protect doctors from professional repercussions that may arise when treating this vulnerable population. The intention is to increase the number of healthcare providers willing to take on Medicaid recipients, ultimately expanding access to necessary health services for low-income individuals.

Summary

SB01077, titled 'An Act Concerning The Acceptance By Physicians Of Patients Who Are Medicaid Recipients,' is designed to encourage more physicians to accept Medicaid patients by addressing existing barriers. The bill establishes a working group consisting of representatives from various medical and governmental bodies tasked with evaluating these barriers and recommending solutions. This group is expected to submit a report with their findings and suggestions by January 1, 2024.

Contention

The bill has sparked discussions regarding the adequacy of Medicaid funding and support for healthcare providers. While supporters argue that the liability protections will encourage more providers to accept Medicaid patients, there are concerns about the underlying issues within the Medicaid system itself, including reimbursement rates and compliance burdens that may still deter participation. Some members of the medical community and advocacy groups are calling for comprehensive reforms to ensure that the Medicaid program is sustainable and effective in meeting the needs of both patients and providers.