
S 0168 – Rhode Island
Status: In ProcessYear Introduced: 2025
Link: https://status.rilegislature.gov/
This bill prohibits health insurers in Rhode Island from requiring prior authorization for medical services, items, treatments, or procedures ordered by primary care providers (PCPs), which are defined as general internists, family physicians, pediatricians, geriatricians, OB-GYNs, nurse practitioners, and physician’s assistants. The prohibition does not apply to brand-name prescription drugs, controlled substances, or cases where a primary care provider has documented instances of fraud, waste, or abuse as defined by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The bill amends existing state laws to add this requirement and directs the Office of the Health Insurance Commissioner to enforce these new provisions. By reducing administrative barriers, the legislation aims to streamline healthcare delivery and potentially improve patient access to medical care. The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, giving insurers time to adjust their processes to comply with the new requirements.
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