Enhanced Transparency and Parity in Mental Health and Substance Use Coverage
This act aims to strengthen parity rules for mental health and substance use disorder benefits. It introduces new obligations for insurers and health plans, increasing oversight and transparency regarding claim denials, network adequacy, and reimbursement rates. Citizens will gain access to a centralized consumer parity unit, facilitating the reporting of violations.
Key points
Insurers and health plans must annually submit comparative analyses of mental health, substance use, and medical/surgical benefits.
The Secretary will conduct randomized audits of health plans (no fewer than 40 per year) to determine compliance.
A consumer parity unit will be established, with a toll-free number and online portal, to handle complaints.
Health plans will be required to respond to consumer requests for information concerning their coverage within 7 days.
Grants will be provided to states to support health insurance consumer assistance offices and ombudsman programs.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 117_S_4616
Sponsor: Sen. Warren, Elizabeth [D-MA]
Process start date: 2022-07-26