Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB789

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/8/23
• Refer: 12/8/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Provider directories for certain health plans.

Impact

The implications of AB789 on state laws are significant, particularly in the realm of healthcare regulation. By instituting standards for provider directories, the bill seeks to empower consumers in their healthcare choices, thereby potentially increasing competition among providers. Additionally, the requirement to accommodate individuals with disabilities and limited language proficiency aligns the bill with broader objectives of inclusivity and accessibility in healthcare access.

Summary

Assembly Bill 789 aims to enhance transparency and accessibility in healthcare by mandating that defined network plans and preferred provider plans must maintain up-to-date directories of healthcare providers. This legislation requires that these directories be accessible to both current enrollees and potential new members at least annually. It specifically calls for the directories to be maintained on the plan’s website with updates required no less than quarterly, ensuring that consumers can easily view provider information without unnecessary barriers such as account creation or policy number entry.

Contention

There may be points of contention regarding the regulation of managed care organizations presented by AB789. Some stakeholders may argue that the bill imposes additional burdens on healthcare plans, particularly in terms of the administrative requirements to maintain and update the provider directories. Moreover, potential concerns about compliance costs and the impact on smaller managed care organizations may arise, particularly from those who believe that the regulations could create a competitive disadvantage for smaller entities compared to larger organizations capable of better absorbing such costs. Advocates and legislators opposing the bill might suggest that there are already existing measures in place that sufficiently address the need for provider transparency.