Maine 2023-2024 Regular Session

Maine House Bill LD1035

Introduced
3/7/23  
Refer
3/7/23  
Refer
3/7/23  

Caption

An Act to Adjust Reimbursement for Chiropractic Services

Impact

This legislation is significant for both patients seeking chiropractic care and practitioners within the field. By reforming reimbursement practices, LD1035 could lead to increased patient services covered under state health plans, thereby providing broader access to chiropractic treatment. Additionally, practitioners may see improved financial sustainability and business growth due to more predictable reimbursement rates. However, the bill's effectiveness will depend on the state’s implementation strategies and compliance from healthcare insurance providers.

Summary

LD1035, titled 'An Act to Adjust Reimbursement for Chiropractic Services,' aims to modify the way reimbursement for chiropractic services is handled within state healthcare systems. The bill seeks to ensure that chiropractic care is reimbursed more consistently and fairly, addressing existing discrepancies that have led to unequal treatment of chiropractic services compared to other medical fields. Proponents argue that a standardized reimbursement process would enhance access to care for patients who rely on chiropractic services for their health needs.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding LD1035 appears to be positive among health practitioners and patient advocacy groups, who view it as a necessary update to healthcare policies. However, there may be concerns from insurance companies regarding potential increased costs associated with higher reimbursement rates. If the bill leads to more equitable treatment of chiropractic services, it is likely to be well-received by those affected, while criticisms may arise from fiscal perspectives concerning the overall cost to state-managed health programs.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding LD1035 could include debates over funding mechanisms for the adjusted reimbursements and the potential unintended consequences of making chiropractic services more financially profitable. Critics may argue that such changes could strain state budgets or lead to over-utilization of chiropractic services by patients. Additionally, there might be discussions around the qualifications required for chiropractors to receive these benefits, including potential certification or standards that need to be met to ensure quality of care.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ME SF1686

Chiropractic practice inclusion of telemedicine services clarification provision; Board of Chiropractic Examiners having the authority to discipline a chiropractor who is not following executive order provision; Recognition of animal chiropractic sessions provision

ME SB2017

Chiropractors; allow to perform chiropractic upon animals without the supervision of a veterinarian.

ME HB454

Medicaid; increase reimbursement rate for providers of assisted living services.

ME LD649

An Act to Certify Chiropractic Assistants Who Perform X-rays as Chiropractic Radiographers

ME HF2292

Practice of chiropractic clarified to include providing telemedicine services, State Board of Chiropractic Examiners clarified to have the disciplinary authority, and animal chiropractic sections reorganized.

ME SB2313

Medicaid reimbursement; authorize for substance abuse and mental health services for pregnant and postpartum women.

ME SB2657

Medicaid reimbursement for certain home services; impose moratorium on new providers.

ME SB2345

Medicaid program; revise reimbursement for telehealth services for community health centers.

ME SB2314

Medicaid reimbursement; extend for community-based home-visitation and pregnancy support services.

ME SB687

Chiropractors: animal chiropractic practitioners.

Similar Bills

NV SB376

Revises provisions governing industrial insurance. (BDR 53-629)

ME LD592

An Act to Amend the Law Governing MaineCare Coverage of Chiropractic Treatment

NV AB441

Revises provisions relating to industrial insurance. (BDR 53-1002)

CA SB687

Chiropractors: animal chiropractic practitioners.

NV SB274

Revises provisions relating to industrial insurance. (BDR 53-946)

HI HB1686

Relating To Insurance.

CA AB1013

Remote accessible vote by mail system.

NV AB469

Revises provisions relating to labor. (BDR 53-921)