Please Sign in Pro on HB 1432 and HB 1589!

HB 1432-Improving access to appropriate mental health and substance use disorder services.(Medical Necessity)

• The definition of "mental health services" is expanded to include outpatient services, residential care, inpatient services, and prescription drugs for treating mental health and SUDs, based on current diagnostic manuals.
  

• Health carriers must provide equal coverage for mental health and SUDs across all benefit categories, ensuring core treatments are covered.
  

• Prior authorization is not required for initial evaluations and the first six outpatient visits.
  

• Carriers must use evidence-based criteria for service placements.
  

• At least two business days of inpatient care must be covered before a utilization review is conducted.
  

• Prior authorization is not required for withdrawal management services or mental health treatment in behavioral health agencies

HB 1589-Concerning the relationships between health carriers and contracting providers.(Contracting Fairness)

• This bill outlines regulations aimed at improving the adequacy and fairness of provider networks for health carriers. Key points include:
  

• Network Adequacy:The Office of the Insurance Commissioner (OIC) must assess whether providers in a health carrier’s network are actively providing services to enrollees.
  
• Provider Contracting: Health carriers must negotiate in good faith, avoiding unfair practices like withholding contract terms or refusing negotiations. Health carriers must make contact information for contract negotiations and renegotiations easy to find and easy to access.
• Contract Clauses: Contracts can't require providers to accept discounted rates from other agreements. No all or nothing clauses. Must provide a fee schedule in advance of the contract.

To have your pro position noted for the legislative record, click the bill link above and then click the link that says sign up to testify/submit written testimony (on the right).  Please make sure the appropriate bill is selected then click the link that says, "I would like my position noted for the legislative record". 

WMHCA is asking for your support to get these bills passed.  The are step in the right direction to hold insurance companies accountable.

Best Regards,

Washington Mental Health Counselors Association