Senate Bill No. 275, introduced by Senator Myers, aims to enhance the reimbursement rates for services provided by certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) within their lawful scope of practice. The bill enacts R.S. 22:1037.1, which mandates that health insurers reimburse CRNAs at a rate no less than what they would reimburse a physician for the same service, regardless of the billing modifier or coding designation used. Additionally, the bill prohibits insurers from denying participation or network inclusion to CRNAs based solely on their provider type or licensure.

The provisions of this bill will apply to any new insurance policy, contract, program, or health coverage plan issued on or after January 1, 2027. Existing policies will need to conform to these provisions by their renewal date, but no later than January 1, 2028. The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2027, thereby ensuring that CRNAs receive equitable reimbursement for their services in the healthcare system.