Bill

Bill > HB241


NH HB241

Relative to treatment alternatives to opioids.


summary

Introduced
01/07/2025
In Committee
01/09/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

2025 Regular Session

Bill Summary

This bill requires insurance coverage for certain pain management therapies prescribed as alternatives to treatment with opioids.

AI Summary

This bill requires insurance companies in New Hampshire to provide comprehensive coverage for a wide range of non-opioid pain management services for both individual and group health insurance policies. The bill mandates that insurers cover at least 12 visits for each category of pain management services, which include behavioral health interventions (such as cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness training), manual treatments (like chiropractic and massage therapy), movement therapies (including therapeutic exercises and yoga), acupuncture, and massage therapy. The legislation aims to address shortcomings in the healthcare system's approach to pain management during the opioid crisis by ensuring patients have access to alternative treatment options. Insurers must submit a comprehensive pain management services plan to the insurance commissioner for approval, post detailed information on their websites, and provide educational materials to policyholders about various pain management methods. The bill also prohibits insurers from implementing more restrictive utilization controls for non-opioid therapies compared to opioid treatments and requires a multi-modal approach to pain management that integrates diverse treatment strategies. The new requirements will take effect on July 1, 2025, and apply to health insurance companies, health service corporations, and health maintenance organizations operating in New Hampshire.

Committee Categories

Business and Industry, Health and Social Services

Sponsors (4)

Last Action

Retained in Committee (on 03/05/2025)

bill text


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