Health insurance; coverage for autism spectrum disorder, cost-sharing requirements prohibited.
If enacted, HB 1347 would significantly alter the landscape of health insurance coverage for autism-related services within the Commonwealth of Virginia. The bill mandates that insurers cannot refuse to issue, renew, or adjust coverage based solely on an individual's autism diagnosis or their receipt of treatment. This legislative change aims to enhance access to necessary treatment and remove financial barriers that many families face when securing appropriate care for individuals with autism.
House Bill 1347 aims to amend the Code of Virginia to ensure that health insurance policies provide coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The bill specifies that all insurers must cover behavioral health treatments, including applied behavior analysis, for individuals diagnosed with ASD, ensuring that the coverage applies regardless of the age of the individual. This legislation responds to the growing recognition of the importance of early intervention and comprehensive treatment options for children and adults with autism.
Despite its intentions, the bill faced some opposition during discussions, primarily centering on concerns about the financial implications for insurance providers and the potential for increased premiums. Some lawmakers questioned whether the mandated coverage would lead to significant cost increases that could be passed on to policyholders. Additionally, there was debate regarding the limits of coverage, particularly the stipulation that coverage for applied behavior analysis would not be subject to predetermined visit limits, which some saw as a potential for abuse or overutilization of services.