Accident And Sickness Insurance Policies -- Physical Therapy Copay
The introduction of H7135 is designed to amend existing insurance regulations pertaining to accident and sickness insurance policies. By establishing a clear cap on copayments for physical therapy services relative to primary care, the bill aims to reduce barriers to accessing necessary therapeutic treatments. This could lead to improved health outcomes for patients who rely on physical therapy for recovery from injuries or managing chronic conditions, thereby potentially enhancing overall public health in the state.
House Bill H7135 addresses the copayment structures for physical therapy services under various health insurance plans within Rhode Island. Specifically, the bill mandates that any insurance plans or policies delivered, issued, or renewed in the state on or after January 1, 2023, cannot impose copayments, coinsurance, or office visit deductibles for physical therapy services that are greater than those assigned to primary care physician services. This legislative move aims to promote equitable access to physical therapy services by ensuring that the financial burden on patients is not disproportionately higher than for other types of medical care.
While the bill aims to improve access to physical therapy, it may face scrutiny from insurance providers who could argue that limiting copayment structures may impact their financial models. Additionally, there might be concerns regarding the implementation and enforcement of the new regulations across different insurance policies and companies. Opponents may argue that such measures could increase premiums or reduce the variety of services covered, creating a counterproductive effect on the health insurance landscape in Rhode Island.