AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 8; Title 10; Title 53; Title 56; Title 63; Title 68 and Title 71, relative to pharmacy benefits.
If enacted, HB2170 would significantly impact how healthcare services are managed under state law. By mandating that insurers consider costs paid by enrollees towards their cost-sharing requirements, the bill seeks to enhance consumer protection and financial transparency in healthcare. Additionally, it addresses the treatment of prescription drugs, setting conditions under which cost-sharing limits apply and establishing guidelines for coverage decisions, potentially improving access to necessary medications for consumers.
House Bill 2170 aims to amend various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated related to pharmacy benefits. The bill introduces definitions for terms such as 'healthcare service' and 'health plan' and outlines the responsibilities of insurers, pharmacy benefits managers, and third-party administrators regarding healthcare coverage. The intent is to clarify the obligations of these entities in administering health plans and ensure consistency in applying cost-sharing requirements across different healthcare services.
Notably, the bill includes provisions regarding the limitations on cost-sharing for health plans, which could spark debate among stakeholders. Some proponents may argue that the bill enhances patient rights and ensures fairer treatment in the insurance market. Conversely, opponents might express concerns regarding compliance burdens on insurers or the potential for increased insurance premiums as companies adapt their policies and practices to meet new regulatory standards. The discussion surrounding these provisions could also influence further legislative adjustments.