Rhode Island Senate Bill S0024

Rhode Island 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/23
• Refer: 1/18/23
• Report Pass: 4/27/23
• Engrossed: 5/9/23
• Refer: 5/10/23

Caption

Accident And Sickness Insurance Policies

Impact

The bill significantly impacts state law regarding health insurance requirements by mandating that certain pediatric conditions receive coverage. This alteration reflects an important policy shift towards recognizing and addressing specific pediatric health needs. Furthermore, health insurance carriers in Rhode Island will also be responsible for collecting and reporting data on the costs and potential savings associated with this coverage to the office of the health insurance commissioner by January 1, 2025. This report will evaluate the effectiveness and financial impact of the new mandate on both insurers and policyholders.

Summary

Bill S0024 is a legislative measure focused on ensuring mandatory health insurance coverage for the treatment of pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders associated with streptococcal infections and pediatric acute onset neuropsychiatric syndrome. Effective from January 1, 2023, every group health insurance contract and policy in Rhode Island will be required to include coverage for these disorders, including advanced treatment options such as intravenous immunoglobin therapy. The bill aims to address a significant gap in healthcare coverage for affected children and ensures they receive necessary medical interventions.

Contention

While proponents of the bill argue it is a crucial step to ensure vulnerable children have access to necessary treatments, potential concerns have been raised regarding the financial implications for insurance carriers. The bill contains a sunset provision set for December 31, 2025, which suggests that its impact will be reviewed before continuing indefinitely. This could lead to ongoing discussions about funding and coverage as the healthcare landscape evolves. Critics may worry about the added burdens on the insurance marketplace and the long-term sustainability of funded treatments as the analysis unfolds.