Requires the superintendent of financial services to audit certain reports to ensure such insurers are in full compliance with federal and state mental health and substance use disorder parity requirements.
Summary
Bill A05746 seeks to amend the New York insurance law by requiring the superintendent of financial services to audit reports submitted by insurers. These reports are intended to demonstrate compliance with federal and state mental health and substance use disorder parity requirements. The bill mandates that insurers providing managed care products and comprehensive health insurance submit these compliance reports every two years, starting from July 1, 2019. The superintendent is tasked with auditing these reports to ensure compliance and investigating any credible allegations of noncompliance.
Impact
If enacted, this bill would enhance the oversight of insurers regarding their compliance with mental health and substance use disorder parity laws. It would hold insurers accountable for their adherence to these laws and provide a mechanism for enforcement through the attorney general's office in cases of willful violations. This could lead to improved access to mental health services and better protection for individuals needing such care.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding Bill A05746 appears to be supportive, as it addresses critical issues related to mental health and substance use disorder treatment. However, there may be concerns regarding the administrative burden placed on insurers and the potential implications for insurance premiums and coverage options.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise from insurance industry representatives who could argue that the additional auditing requirements may lead to increased costs and administrative challenges. On the other hand, advocates for mental health parity may contend that these measures are necessary to ensure compliance and protect consumers' rights to equitable treatment.
Requires the superintendent of financial services to audit certain reports to ensure such insurers are in full compliance with federal and state mental health and substance use disorder parity requirements.
Requires the superintendent of financial services to audit certain reports to ensure such insurers are in full compliance with federal and state mental health and substance use disorder parity requirements.
Directs the state comptroller to conduct an audit of the department of financial services to ensure the agency is meeting its responsibility to evaluate and assess insurer compliance with federal and state mental health and substance use disorder parity requirements.
Directs the state comptroller to conduct an audit of the department of financial services to ensure the agency is meeting its responsibility to evaluate and assess insurer compliance with federal and state mental health and substance use disorder parity requirements.
Directs the state comptroller to conduct an audit of the department of health and other agencies to ensure that the agency meets its responsibilities to review and assess Medicaid managed care organizations for compliance with federal and state requirements to maintain adequate health care providers within network, and to meet mental health and substance use disorder parity requirements.
Requires health insurers to comply with federal mental health parity laws, prevent discriminatory treatment limits, and ensures meaningful mental health and substance use coverage in all benefit classifications.
Requires health insurers to comply with federal mental health parity laws, prevent discriminatory treatment limits, and ensures meaningful mental health and substance use coverage in all benefit classifications.