WSR 98-03-029

INSURANCE COMMISSIONER'S OFFICE

[Filed January 13, 1998, 2:41 p.m.]

Attention: Disability Insurers, Health Care Service Contractors, Health Maintenance Organizations.

Re: Diabetes Cost Reduction Act of 1997.

New Washington state laws require that on and after January 1, 1998, health care service contractors (RCW 48.44.315), health maintenance organizations (RCW 48.46.272), disability insurers (RCW 48.20.391) and group disability insurers (RCW 48.21.143) who issue or renew coverage must provide specified coverage for diabetic persons.

This law does not apply to the health benefit plan that provides benefits identical to the schedule of services covered by the basic health plan. The statute provides definitions, creates certain exceptions and indicates some procedures carriers must follow to adhere to its requirements.

We will not adopt specific rules regarding this statute at this time. Instead, we will monitor carrier compliance, encourage research, training and education regarding the act and we will revisit the need for rules in the coming year.

Please be advised, however, that we will begin determining insurer and carrier compliance with these statutes, as written, for all contracts issued or renewed on or after January 1, 1998.