Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

Michigan Senate Bill SB0821

Introduced
4/10/24  
Refer
4/10/24  
Report Pass
10/17/24  
Refer
10/17/24  
Report Pass
10/30/24  
Engrossed
12/3/24  

Caption

Insurance: health insurers; provide the department of health and human services information on medical malpractice insurance relating to perinatal care services; require on request. Amends sec. 2434 of 1956 PA 218 (MCL 500.2434).

Impact

Should SB 0821 be enacted, it will significantly influence how medical malpractice insurance is regulated and administered in Michigan. The modifications to section 2434 will require insurers to report detailed information regarding their policies related to perinatal care services. This data must subsequently be analyzed by the Department of Health and Human Services, thereby positioning the state to address issues pertinent to maternal and infant health insurance coverage. Furthermore, the requirement for rating classification disclosures to the legislature and governor fosters legislative oversight and a responsive regulatory environment.

Summary

Senate Bill 0821 aims to amend the Michigan Insurance Code of 1956 by introducing requirements for insurance companies that provide medical malpractice coverage for physicians. The bill mandates that insurers cooperate with both the Department of Health and Human Services and associations representing physician interests to establish rating classifications for malpractice insurance. This collaborative effort is intended to ensure that the insurance policies reflect the medical landscape, particularly for perinatal care services, thus promoting accountability and transparency in how such insurance is rated and implemented.

Sentiment

General sentiment around SB 0821 appears to be cautiously optimistic, particularly among stakeholders in the medical field, including physicians and insurance providers. Advocates for the bill argue that it helps ensure that malpractice coverage rates remain fair and reflective of the actual risk provided by services offered specifically in perinatal care, which is crucial for enhancing overall patient safety and care quality. However, there may be concerns regarding the potential administrative burdens that could arise from increased reporting and compliance obligations for insurers.

Contention

The debate around SB 0821 will likely revolve around its implications for both healthcare providers and insurers. While supporters consider the enhancement of oversight as a step towards improving healthcare quality and accountability in insurance pricing, some critics may argue that increased regulation could lead to higher costs for insurance providers, which might be passed down to healthcare consumers. Furthermore, the bill is tied to the enactment of Senate Bill 818, which may introduce additional discussions about the overall framework of healthcare insurance legislation in Michigan.

Companion Bills

MI SB0818

Same As Records: death; commission to investigate racial disparities related to maternal health; create. Amends secs. 2227, 2617, 2617a & 2618 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.2227 et seq.) & adds sec. 2617b. TIE BAR WITH: SB 0819'24, SB 0821'24

Previously Filed As

MI SB0032

Insurance: health insurers; provision of information on medical malpractice insurance relating to perinatal care services to the department of health and human services; require on request. Amends sec. 2434 of 1956 PA 218 (MCL 500.2434). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0029'25

MI HB4131

Insurance: health insurers; coverage for health care services provided through telemedicine; modify. Amends sec. 3476 of 1956 PA 218 (MCL 500.3476).

MI SB0356

Insurance: health insurers; summary of benefits and coverage provided to insureds; modify. Amends sec. 2212a of 1956 PA 218 (MCL 500.2212a).

MI SB0827

Insurance: health insurers; coverage for gynecological and perinatal services; require. Amends 1956 PA 218 (MCL 500.100 - 500.8302) by adding sec. 3406cc.

MI SB0037

Insurance: health insurers; coverage for gynecological and perinatal services; require. Amends 1956 PA 218 (MCL 500.100 - 500.8302) by adding sec. 3406cc.

MI A4601

Requires health insurance and Medicaid coverage for reproductive health care services; prohibits adverse actions by medical malpractice insurers in relation to performance of health care services.

MI HB5339

Insurance: health insurers; coverage for step therapy; modify. Amends sec. 3406t of 1956 PA 218 (MCL 500.3406t).

MI HB4623

Insurance: health insurers; minimum required coverage; provide for. Amends 1956 PA 218 (MCL 500.100 - 500.8302) by adding sec. 3406bb.

MI SB0636

Insurance: health insurers; health insurance policy; include provision related to Michigan health insurance exchange act. Amends sec. 2212a of 1956 PA 218 (MCL 500.2212a). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0633'23

MI HB5343

Insurance: insurers; insurance providers to panel a mental health provider within a certain time period of application process; require. Amends 1956 PA 218 (MCL 500.100 - 500.8302) by adding sec. 3406z.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.