Bill > SB137

This bill requires health care service plans and health insurers to create and maintain accurate provider directories, both online and in print, that list contracting providers delivering health care services to their members. These directories must be easily accessible to the public, including potential enrollees, and contain detailed information about each provider, such as their name, contact information, license number, and specialties. The bill mandates that these directories be updated regularly, with online versions updated at least weekly and printed versions at least quarterly, and that both health plans and insurers take steps to ensure the accuracy of the information, including annually reviewing and updating the entire directory. If a member reasonably relies on inaccurate information in a provider directory and incurs costs beyond what they would have paid for in-network services, the health plan or insurer may be required to reimburse them for the difference. The bill also directs the Department of Managed Health Care and the Department of Insurance to develop uniform standards for these provider directories to ensure consistency.