AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 33; Title 56 and Title 71, relative to insurance.
Summary
House Bill 2104 is a legislative proposal aimed at amending the Tennessee Code Annotated to enhance mental health care coverage. Specifically, the bill mandates that all health insurance policies providing medical and surgical benefits must also cover an annual mental health wellness examination conducted by a licensed mental health professional. This examination is required to last a minimum of forty-five minutes and encompass various aspects such as behavioral health screenings, education on lifestyle changes, and potential referrals for further treatment.
One of the notable aspects of HB2104 is that it aligns with the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act, ensuring that mental health services are treated equivalently to medical and surgical benefits. In doing so, the bill promotes integrated care and aims to reduce the stigma associated with mental health by recognizing its intrinsic value in overall health management. Furthermore, the bill explicitly states that these wellness examinations should not incur any copayments, coinsurance, or deductibles, promoting accessibility for individuals needing mental health services.
The impact of HB2104 on state law is significant, as it effectively elevates mental health service requirements within health insurance policies across Tennessee. By legislating a uniform standard for mental health examinations, the bill enhances consumer protection and potentially encourages more individuals to seek mental health assistance. Supporters of HB2104 argue that it represents an important step toward closing the health care access gap that often exists for mental health services, particularly in a state where mental health issues are prevalent but often remain underserved.
However, there may be contention regarding the potential implications for insurance providers and the overall cost of health care. Critics might express concerns that mandating such coverage without cost-sharing could lead to increased premiums overall, impacting consumers in different ways. The balance between improving mental health access and managing health care costs will likely be a significant point of debate as the bill continues to move through the legislative process.
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 8; Title 33; Title 39; Title 49; Title 53; Title 56; Title 63; Title 68 and Title 71, relative to mental health.
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 8; Title 33; Title 39; Title 49; Title 53; Title 56; Title 63; Title 68 and Title 71, relative to mental health.