This bill aims to enhance access to mental health and substance use disorder services in Rhode Island by prohibiting health insurers from requiring prior authorization for in-network services. The bill amends Section 27-38.2-1 of the General Laws to include new provisions that ensure coverage for mental health and substance use disorders is treated equally to other medical conditions. Key insertions include a mandate that no health insurers in Rhode Island can require prior authorization for in-network mental health or substance use disorder services. Additionally, the Office of Health Insurance Commissioner (OHIC) is granted the authority to promulgate rules and regulations, as well as conduct oversight and enforcement actions necessary to implement this subsection, including the imposition of fines for violations. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
54: 27-38.2-1