Requires every individual or group health insurance contract, plan, or policy to provide coverage for at least one type of buprenorphine for each form of administration.
Impact
The passage of HB6422 is expected to significantly impact the landscape of health insurance in Rhode Island by enhancing the accessibility of prescription drug coverage for buprenorphine. This change is particularly pertinent given the ongoing opioid crisis, underscoring the state's commitment to supporting public health measures that mitigate addiction. Additionally, the legislation may encourage quicker adoption of buprenorphine as a treatment option, potentially leading to better health outcomes for individuals affected by substance use disorders. Health insurance providers will need to align their policies with the new requirements to comply with state law after the effective date.
Summary
House Bill H6422 is a legislative proposal that mandates coverage for buprenorphine within every individual or group health insurance contract, plan, or policy that includes prescription coverage. Effective from January 1, 2026, this bill ensures that insurance plans cover at least one form of buprenorphine for each method of administration, removing barriers such as copayments or deductibles specifically for this medication. By eliminating copayments and deductibles, the bill aims to facilitate access to this critical treatment, which is often prescribed as part of addiction recovery programs, particularly for individuals struggling with opioid dependence.
Contention
While the bill is generally supported by health advocates and addiction recovery groups, potential areas of contention may arise concerning the financial implications for health insurance providers who will now be required to cover these medications without cost-sharing. Moreover, there may be discussions surrounding the types of buprenorphine formulations included in this mandate, and whether the inclusion of specific forms reflects effective treatment standards. The holistic effect of this bill may be scrutinized as stakeholders assess both its immediate and long-term impacts on addiction treatment strategies across the state.
Requires every individual or group health insurance contract effective on or after January 1, 2025, to provide coverage to the insured and the insured's spouse and dependents for all FDA-approved contraceptive drugs, devices and other products.
Requires every individual or group health insurance contract effective on or after January 1, 2025, to provide coverage to the insured and the insured's spouse and dependents for all FDA-approved contraceptive drugs, devices and other products.
Requires health plans that provide prescription benefits to cover at least one type of glucagon auto-injector, nasal spray, or formulation that does not require reconstitution to treat hypoglycemia. No copayment or deductible would be required.
Requires health plans that provide prescription benefits to cover at least one type of glucagon auto-injector, nasal spray, or formulation that does not require reconstitution to treat hypoglycemia. No copayment or deductible would be required.