Michigan House Bill HB6252

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/5/24
• Refer: 12/5/24

Caption

Insurance: no-fault; reimbursement for physical therapy; include therapy under supervision of advance practice registered nurse. Amends sec. 3107b of 1956 PA 218 (MCL 500.3107b).

Impact

The bill's adjustments could significantly impact how personal protection insurance coverage is interpreted and implemented in Michigan. By delineating what types of services will not be covered, the bill aims to clarify reimbursement structures and potentially reduce costs for insurance providers. However, this change raises concerns regarding access to care for patients who may need therapies to be covered, possibly resulting in higher out-of-pocket expenses for insured individuals seeking these services.

Summary

House Bill 6252 seeks to amend the Michigan Insurance Code of 1956 by making specific adjustments to the reimbursement requirements within personal protection insurance coverage. The bill proposes that expenses incurred from certain services rendered by optometrists, chiropractors, and physical therapists will not be mandatorily covered under personal protection insurance unless they meet specific criteria outlined in the law. Notably, chiropractic services rendered before a specified date and physical therapy must be undertaken under the supervision of a licensed practitioner to qualify for reimbursement.

Contention

Opponents of HB6252 may argue that the changes could limit access to necessary healthcare services for individuals requiring physical therapy, especially those not covered by an advanced practice registered nurse's supervision. The contention arises from the balance between reducing insurance costs and ensuring patient access to various health services, reflecting broader debates about the role of insurance in facilitating healthcare access amidst rising costs.