If enacted, SB3224 would change how certain chronic condition-related services are defined in the context of preventive care, thereby aligning them with IRS regulations. This means that individuals enrolled in HDHPs would have greater access to preventive services without the burden of high deductibles. The legislation aims to reduce financial barriers faced by patients with chronic conditions, potentially improving their adherence to treatment plans and improving health outcomes.
Summary
Senate Bill 3224, titled the 'Chronic Disease Flexible Coverage Act', aims to codify certain Internal Revenue Service (IRS) guidance regarding the classification of specific services and items related to chronic conditions as preventive care. This classification facilitates their coverage under high-deductible health plans (HDHPs) and health savings accounts (HSAs). The intent behind the bill is to enhance access to necessary healthcare services for individuals managing chronic diseases by allowing these services to qualify for deductible safe harbors, which could lead to lower out-of-pocket costs for patients.
Contention
While the bill has garnered support for improving healthcare accessibility, there may be contention surrounding how effectively it can be implemented. Opponents might raise concerns regarding the administrative aspects of codifying IRS guidelines and whether this will truly translate into improved patient access and outcomes. Additionally, there is potential for debate over which services qualify as preventive and how this might impact healthcare costs in the broader context of insurance markets.
Chronic Disease Flexible Coverage ActThis bill provides statutory authority for guidance from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) that expands the types of preventive care that may be offered under a high deductible health plan (HDHP) without requiring a deductible or with a deductible below the minimum threshold.Under current law, to be considered health savings account-eligible, an HDHP must have a deductible above a certain minimum threshold amount, which is adjusted annually. However, an HDHP may cover certain types of preventive care without requiring a deductible or with a deductible below the minimum threshold. The IRS issued guidance expanding the types of preventive care that may be covered by an HDHP without requiring a deductible or with a deductible below the minimum threshold to includeangiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors for individuals with congestive heart failure, diabetes, or coronary artery disease;anti-resorptive therapy for individuals with osteoporosis or osteopenia;beta-blockers for individuals with congestive heart failure or coronary artery disease;blood pressure monitors for individuals with hypertension;inhaled corticosteroids and peak flow meters for individuals with asthma;insulin and other glucose lowering agents, retinopathy screening, glucometers, and hemoglobin A1c testing for individuals with diabetes;international normalized ratio testing for individuals with liver disease or bleeding disorders;low-density lipoprotein testing for individuals with heart disease;statins for individuals with heart disease or diabetes; andselective serotonin reuptake inhibitors for individuals with depression. The bill provides statutory authority for the IRS's guidance.