Consumers would be protected against paying multiple copayments for physical therapy, chiropractic and occupational therapy services under a bill approved by the Senate today. Senate Bill 487, sponsored by Sen. Chuck McIlhinney (R-10), would prevent health insurance policies from charging a consumer more than one copayment amount per visit. The bill would also prohibit policies from depleting more than one visit for services provided on a given date.
“The use of multiple copayments shifts the financial burden from the insurance company to the consumer, creating a greater financial burden on patients and restricting services for a number of important services,” McIlhinney said. “Passing this legislation will help close that loophole and reestablish the obligation of health plans to cover the expense of medical services.”
The bill allows the Pennsylvania Department of Insurance to develop regulations relating to multiple copayments. Violators would be subjected to penalties prescribed in the Unfair Insurance Practices Act.
The Senate unanimously passed similar legislation sponsored by McIlhinney last year. Senate Bill 487 was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration.