Oklahoma Senate Bill SB990

Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/21
• Refer: 2/2/21

Caption

Health insurance; requiring certain private insurance plans allow setting aside certain monies. Effective date.

Impact

By requiring all health benefit plans to include robust coverage for diabetes-related equipment and services, SB990 effectively broadens the scope of medical support available to individuals with diabetes. This includes coverage for blood glucose monitors, insulin pumps, and diabetes self-management training. The bill stipulates that insurance companies must not reduce or eliminate coverage due to these enhancements, thereby reinforcing necessary healthcare provisions for diabetic patients across the state.

Summary

Senate Bill 990, introduced by Senator Hicks, amends existing health insurance legislation in Oklahoma to enhance the management of diabetes treatments through private high deductible health plans. The bill mandates that such plans must allow insured individuals to set aside funds on a tax-free basis for certain out-of-pocket medical expenses associated with diabetes management. This legislative measure aims to alleviate financial burdens on patients who require medical supplies, nutrition therapy, and other essential services for effective diabetes care.

Contention

While SB990 aims to improve healthcare access for patients with diabetes, discussions around the bill may lead to varying opinions concerning its implementation and the extent of coverage provided by insurance companies. Notably, the enforcement of the bill's provisions is designated to the Insurance Department and the State Department of Health, raising questions about the effective oversight of compliance among insurance providers. Some stakeholders may voice concerns regarding how high deductible plans would adapt without imposing additional costs on insured individuals, making the balance between affordability and comprehensive care a pivotal topic of debate.