Bill would limit health insurers' changes to covered care

A health insurer may not change coverage for a service covered by a health policy during that policy's term, including by increasing listed costs. It covers health policies issued by insurers licensed by Pennsylvania's Insurance Department. Accident-only, limited-benefit, and several other named policy types are excluded. The rule does not apply to care obtained through fraudulent or criminal activity. It also does not apply if the FDA questions the benefit's clinical safety or the drug maker notifies the FDA that a drug's manufacture has stopped or may stop. Self-funded employer health plans, employers acting as plan sponsors, and health arrangements outside Insurance Department regulation are excluded. The restriction would apply during the policy term. The act would take effect 60 days after enactment.

A health insurer that violates the chapter may face a civil penalty of up to $1,000, and the violation counts under two consumer protection laws. This applies to a health insurer that violates the chapter's rules for policies issued by insurers licensed by the Insurance Department. A covered person keeps any rights available under the Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law. The act would take effect 60 days after enactment.