SB 5848-S3 - DIGEST

(AS OF SENATE 2ND READING 2/15/00)

     Finds that limitations on access to health care services for enrollees in the state, such as in rural and underserved areas, are particularly challenging for the basic health plan.  Statutory restrictions have reduced the options available to the administrator to address the access needs of basic health plan enrollees.

     Declares an intent to authorize the administrator to develop alternative purchasing strategies to ensure access to basic health plan enrollees in all areas of the state, including:  (1) The use of differential rating for managed health care systems based on geographic differences in costs; and

     (2) limited use of self-insurance in areas where adequate access cannot be assured through other options.

     Provides that, in developing alternative purchasing strategies to address health care access needs, the administrator shall consult with interested persons including health carriers, health care providers, and health facilities, and with other appropriate state agencies including the office of the insurance commissioner and the office of community and rural health.  In pursuing such alternatives, the administrator shall continue to give priority to prepaid managed care as the preferred method of assuring access to basic health plan enrollees.