Relating to insurance coverage for acupuncture

This bill relates to insurance coverage for acupuncture. “Acupuncture” is defined in the bill as a form of health care developed from traditional and modern oriental medical concepts that employs oriental medical diagnosis and treatment, and adjunctive therapies and diagnostic techniques, for the promotion, maintenance, and restoration of health and the prevention of disease. The bill requires a policy, contract, or plan providing for third-party payment or prepayment of health or medical expenses to offer coverage for acupuncture performed by an acupuncturist. 2. “Practice of acupuncture” is also defined in the bill. Coverage required under the bill shall not be less favorable than coverage a health carrier offers for general physical illness. Cost-sharing requirements imposed for coverage required under the bill shall not be less favorable than cost-sharing requirements imposed by a health carrier for general physical illness. “Cost-sharing” is defined in the bill. The bill applies to third-party payment providers enumerated in the bill. The bill specifies the types of specialized health-related insurance which are not subject to the bill. The commissioner of insurance may adopt rules to administer the bill. The bill applies to third-party payment provider contracts, policies, or plans delivered, issued for delivery, continued, or renewed in this state on or after January 1, 2024.9.