The bill amends Section 42-14.5-3 of the Rhode Island General Laws, enhancing the responsibilities of the health insurance commissioner. Key insertions include the requirement for the commissioner to conduct quarterly public meetings to discuss health insurers' rates and operations, establish a consumer/business/labor/medical advisory council, and prepare recommendations for the governor and finance committees regarding healthcare regulations. The advisory council will develop a complaint process for small businesses facing rate increases and assess the health provider community's views on reimbursement rates. Additionally, the bill mandates the formation of a task force to analyze the health insurance market and a workgroup to streamline healthcare administration processes, with specific reporting deadlines on prescription drug prior authorizations.

The bill emphasizes improving healthcare services and transparency, mandating annual reviews of prior authorization requirements by health plans and enhancing communication between health plans, providers, and patients. It also focuses on continuity of patient care during treatment transitions and encourages the adoption of electronic prior authorization technology. The Office of the Health Insurance Commissioner is tasked with conducting a comprehensive analysis of the impact of specific provisions on health insurance premiums and access, with a report due by June 1, 2023. The bill includes a requirement for annual appropriations from the General Assembly to support these analyses and studies, ensuring that necessary evaluations and reporting mechanisms are established to enhance oversight and transparency in health insurance and social service provisions in Rhode Island.

Statutes affected:
121: 42-14.5-3