Texas Senate Bill SB1040

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to health benefit plan coverage for accelerated refills of certain prescription eye drops.

Impact

By enforcing the coverage for accelerated refills, SB1040 modifies state laws related to insurance practices surrounding prescription medications. It prevents health benefit plans from instituting rules that would unfairly limit a patient's access to necessary medications based on timing constraints. As a result, this bill aims to enhance patient care for individuals with chronic eye conditions and aligns with the broader goal of ensuring adequate health care access.

Summary

Senate Bill 1040 focuses on improving health benefit plan coverage for accelerated refills of certain prescription eye drops used to treat chronic eye diseases or conditions. The bill mandates that health plans cannot deny coverage for an early refill of these prescription eye drops as long as the original prescription indicates that additional quantities are necessary. This provision aims to ensure that patients have timely access to their medications, promoting better management of chronic conditions that require consistent treatment.

Contention

While the intent behind SB1040 is to facilitate better health outcomes for patients, it may face scrutiny from insurance companies regarding the economic implications of mandated coverage changes. Opponents might raise concerns about increased costs associated with more frequent refills covered under health plans, which could impact premiums for all policyholders. The bill's provisions aim to balance patient needs against potential budgetary implications for insurers.