U.S. Rep. Ashley Hinson, R-Iowa, has introduced the Health Insurance Transparency for Patients Act, which would require health insurers to publicly report how often they deny coverage requests, how long patients wait for decisions, and how often denials are overturned on appeal.
Goal of the Bill
The goal of the bill is to make insurers more accountable by bringing greater transparency to the coverage approval process. Hinson said she has heard from Iowans who are frustrated with health insurance companies that deny claims based on technicalities.
The proposal would also require health insurers to publish the information in a consumer-friendly format, allowing patients and employers to compare health plans. Hinson believes that by providing this information, patients will be able to make more informed decisions about their healthcare.
Reaction to the Bill
Democrats have criticized Hinson’s healthcare record, arguing that her support for the federal budget law could make healthcare less affordable and reduce access to care, particularly in rural communities. Josh Turek’s campaign responded to Hinson’s proposal, saying that she has voted to raise healthcare costs and jeopardize rural health facilities.
Hinson has roughly 12 weeks remaining in the current House session before her term ends in January. The legislation would need to advance through committee and pass both the House and Senate before it could become law.
Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.
