Bill > A5218

This bill amends existing New Jersey healthcare regulations to enhance network adequacy standards for health insurance carriers. Specifically, the bill requires the Commissioner of Health to adopt new regulations that ensure patients have reasonable and timely in-network access to specific physician specialists at in-network hospitals and facilities. These specialists include anesthesiologists, radiologists, pathologists, emergency medicine physicians, and services under their supervision. The bill updates language in a previous law (P.L.1997, c.192) to mandate that carrier regulations include these enhanced access standards, which are designed to improve consumer protection and healthcare quality. By requiring more comprehensive network standards, the bill aims to make it easier for patients to receive specialized medical care within their insurance network without facing unexpected out-of-network charges or difficulties accessing critical medical services. The regulations will be developed in accordance with the state's Administrative Procedure Act and are intended to provide more transparent and accessible healthcare options for consumers.

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https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A5218