Rhode Island 2022 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H6647

Introduced
1/6/22  

Caption

Medical Insurance Coverage For Epinephrine Injectors

Impact

If passed, HB 6647 would amend several chapters of the Rhode Island General Laws related to insurance, specifically impacting health insurance plans and nonprofit health service corporations. The bill complements existing healthcare regulations by adding provisions that directly address the need for timely administration of epinephrine in cases of severe allergic reactions. This move is expected to improve health outcomes for individuals at risk and may reduce the overall burden on emergency services by ensuring that patients have the necessary tools to manage their conditions more effectively at home.

Summary

House Bill 6647, introduced in January 2022, aims to ensure that all health insurance contracts that provide prescription coverage in Rhode Island will include coverage for prescribed epinephrine injectors and cartridges without the requirement of copayments or deductibles. This legislative measure recognizes the critical nature of epinephrine injectors as life-saving devices, which are often administered in emergency situations by non-professionals. By mandating coverage for these injectors, the bill seeks to promote their accessibility and usage among individuals who may need them in urgent health crises.

Contention

While the bill has the potential to significantly benefit those at risk of anaphylactic reactions, discussions may arise concerning the financial implications for insurance providers. Some insurers might express concerns about the additional costs associated with required coverage for these injectors. However, proponents of the bill argue that this is a justified expense considering the critical need for immediate access to life-saving medication, which could save lives and reduce emergency healthcare costs in the long run.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI HB1670

Health insurance; cost-sharing for epinephrine injectors.

RI H1206

Relative to epinephrine injectors

RI H4943

Relative to epinephrine injectors

RI HB928

In epinephrine auto-injector entities, further providing for definitions and for epinephrine auto-injectors for authorized entities; and making an editorial change.

RI SB1067

In epinephrine auto-injector entities, further providing for definitions and for epinephrine auto-injectors for authorized entities; and making an editorial change.

RI HB1044

In epinephrine auto-injector entities, further providing for scope of chapter, for definitions and for epinephrine auto-injectors for authorized entities; and making an editorial change.

RI HB2117

In school health services, further providing for definitions, for possession and use of asthma inhalers and epinephrine auto-injectors, for school access to emergency epinephrine and for administration of epinephrine auto-injectors by school bus drivers and school crossing guards.

RI SB1126

In casualty insurance, providing for coverage for epinephrine delivery systems.

RI HB1043

In school health services, further providing for definitions, for possession and use of asthma inhalers and epinephrine auto-injectors, for school access to emergency epinephrine and for administration of epinephrine auto-injectors by school bus drivers and school crossing guards.

RI HB1447

In school health services, further providing for possession and use of asthma inhalers and epinephrine auto-injectors and providing for school administration of adrenal insufficiency medication.

Similar Bills

CT HB06921

An Act Implementing The Recommendations Of The Office Of Early Childhood, Department Of Education And The Technical Education And Career System And Concerning The Administration Of Epinephrine And Glucagon.

RI H7617

Provides that where the administration, use, or maintenance of epinephrine within schools and on buses is authorized, this use includes epinephrine delivery devices approved by the United States Food & Drug Administration and epinephrine nasal sprays.

CT HB05515

An Act Concerning The Department Of Mental Health And Addiction Services' Recommendations Regarding Access To Opioid Overdose Reversal Medication And Various Revisions To Mental Health And Addiction Statutes.

RI S2855

Permits students diagnosed with asthma, a condition that may lead to bronchospasm or anaphylaxis, or both, to carry and self-administer asthma medication or auto-injectable or intranasal epinephrine, or both.

RI H7896

Permits students diagnosed with asthma, a condition that may lead to bronchospasm or anaphylaxis, or both, to carry and self-administer asthma medication or auto-injectable or intranasal epinephrine, or both.

TX SB1619

Relating to the use of an epinephrine delivery system by certain entities.

TX HB2283

Relating to the use of an epinephrine delivery device by certain entities.

HI HB1883

Relating To Epinephrine.