Bill > S05204

This bill enacts the Health Care Nondiscrimination Act of 2025, which aims to address historical biases against non-pharmacological healthcare providers by ensuring equal treatment in insurance coverage and reimbursement. The legislation requires health insurance plans and providers to offer coverage for licensed healthcare providers without discrimination, meaning they cannot impose more restrictive payment terms, higher co-payments, or different quality measures compared to primary care providers. The bill mandates fee parity, ensuring that providers are reimbursed equally for similar services regardless of their specific healthcare discipline. Additionally, the law requires healthcare practitioners to discuss and potentially refer patients to non-pharmacological treatment alternatives before prescribing opioids, which includes options like chiropractic care, acupuncture, massage therapy, and physical therapy. The bill expands the scope of licensed healthcare providers' abilities to perform certain services, such as certifying disabilities or being employed by school districts. To ensure compliance, health services plan providers must file annual reports with state departments, and individuals who experience violations can pursue private legal actions with potential punitive damages and attorney's fees. The overall goal is to promote patient choice, reduce barriers to alternative healthcare services, and address the ongoing opioid crisis by encouraging exploration of non-pharmaceutical treatment options.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5204