Relates to cost sharing requirements for high deductible health plans and health savings accounts.
Impact
The impact of A05367 on state laws could be significant, particularly for individuals enrolled in HDHPs who also utilize HSAs or HRAs. By refining cost sharing protocols that influence eligibility for HSAs, the bill aims to promote better access to affordable health care. It also endeavors to assure that preventive care can still be accessed without being subjected to cost sharing conditions that might restrict access based purely on financial thresholds. This provides an added layer of protection for consumers while remaining compliant with federal guidelines.
Summary
Bill A05367 is an act aimed at amending the insurance law to address cost sharing requirements associated with high deductible health plans (HDHPs) offered in conjunction with health reimbursement accounts (HRAs) or health savings accounts (HSAs). The bill seeks to ensure that if cost sharing requirements could potentially make an individual ineligible for benefits under Section 223 of the Internal Revenue Code, those requirements would only apply to the deductible after the individual has met the minimum deductible criteria under the same section. This is intended to align state regulations with federal standards relating to health savings accounts.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding A05367 may arise from discussions regarding the balance of state and federal regulations in health care. Supporters of the bill argue that by aligning state laws with federal standards for HSAs, it simplifies the understanding and compliance for consumers. On the other hand, opponents may express concerns regarding potential loopholes in cost sharing that could compromise consumer protections, ultimately affecting the insurance landscape and access to health care. Striking a suitable balance between regulation and consumer protection remains a key focal point of this legislative effort.
Prohibits cost sharing for insulin; provides that an insured shall not be subject to a deductible, copayment, coinsurance or any other cost sharing requirement for the purchase of insulin.
Prohibits cost sharing for insulin; provides that an insured shall not be subject to a deductible, copayment, coinsurance or any other cost sharing requirement for the purchase of insulin.
Creates an office of healthcare accountability to provide recommendations regarding healthcare and hospital costs; audit expenditures for state employees and retirees; and to provide public information relating to hospital costs and the transparency of hospitals with regard to disclosure of costs.
Provides for sharing of savings among the local district and the health payor to support program administrative costs and provide ongoing HIV housing subsidies.
Establishes a healthy savings pilot program within three cities where those in the program can receive discounts on healthier food choices at grocery stores and supermarkets.