This bill mandates that group insurance policies issued in the state must include coverage for services provided by licensed naturopathy providers. Specifically, it amends RSA 415:18-w to change the language from allowing insurers to provide such coverage ("may") to requiring them to do so ("shall"). The bill stipulates that insurers must cover expenses for health services performed by licensed naturopathic doctors if those services fall within their scope of practice and are typically reimbursed when provided by other healthcare providers. Additionally, the coverage must adhere to the insurer's standards for medical necessity and credentialing, and any benefits provided cannot have higher co-payments, deductibles, or coinsurance than similar benefits offered by the insurer.

The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2027, following its approval on July 2, 2026. This legislative change aims to enhance access to naturopathic care by ensuring that such services are covered under group health insurance plans, thereby promoting a broader range of healthcare options for residents of the state.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 415:18-w
As Amended by the House: 415:18-w
Version adopted by both bodies: 415:18-w
SB550 text: 415:18-w