HB 5349
Requiring the Public Employees Agency and other health insurance providers to provide mental health parity
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- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill requires the Public Employees Insurance Agency (PEIA) and other health insurance providers in West Virginia to provide mental health parity, meaning that coverage for mental health and substance use disorders must be as comprehensive as coverage for physical illnesses. It mandates specific screening and treatment coverage, establishes reporting requirements for PEIA, and aims to ensure equal access to mental health services. The bill also includes provisions for addressing nonparticipating providers and requires annual reporting on parity compliance.
Key provisions
- Requires PEIA and other health insurers to provide mental health parity.
- Mandates coverage for prevention, screening, and treatment of behavioral, mental health, and substance use disorders.
- Establishes annual reporting requirements for PEIA on parity compliance.
- Requires rulemaking to implement the provisions of the bill.
- Includes coverage for autism spectrum disorder.
- Specifies procedures for reimbursement from nonparticipating providers.
- Requires analysis and reporting on nonquantitative treatment limitations.
- Sets an effective date of January 1, 2027.
Who is affected
- Public Employees of West Virginia
- Health Insurance Providers (PEIA, other insurers)
- Individuals receiving health insurance coverage in West Virginia
- Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Treatment Providers
Notable changes
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