By Tom Waring
Wire Staff Writer
The Pennsylvania Senate Banking and Insurance Committee passed a proposal, sponsored by Sen. Chuck McIlhinney (R-10th dist.), that would protect consumers from paying multiple copayments for physical therapy, chiropractic and occupational therapy services.
Senate Bill 487 would prohibit a health insurance policy from charging a consumer more than one copayment amount per visit.
“Although existing law mandates coverage for certain types of procedures, many healthcare plans inappropriately shift the financial burden for services to the consumer through the use of multiple copayments,” McIlhinney said. “This practice creates a serious financial burden on patients and may restrict access to much-needed services, so it is extremely important to close this expensive loophole that is currently being exploited by some insurers.”
The bill allows the Pennsylvania Department of Insurance to develop regulations relating to multiple copayments. It has been sent to the full Senate for consideration.
