Bill > H6422

This bill requires all individual and group health insurance plans in Rhode Island that provide prescription coverage to cover at least one type of buprenorphine for each form of administration, starting January 1, 2026. Buprenorphine is a medication commonly used to treat opioid addiction, and this bill ensures that health insurance plans will provide coverage for this medication without copayments or deductibles during each twelve-month plan year. The bill applies to various types of health insurance entities, including accident and sickness insurance policies, nonprofit hospital service corporations, nonprofit medical service corporations, and health maintenance organizations. An exception allows for deductibles on health plans paired with federally qualified health savings accounts, and health plans are permitted to implement this benefit before the mandatory start date. By mandating comprehensive buprenorphine coverage, the bill aims to improve access to medication-assisted treatment for individuals struggling with opioid addiction, potentially helping to address the ongoing opioid crisis.

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