Yesterday, Sub-SB 162 passed out of the Senate Financial Institutions, Insurance and Technology Committee, and today, it was sent to the full Senate for a floor vote. OSMA has been supporting SB 162 since this time last year, alongside a slate of other key insurance reform initiatives. We are thrilled that our advocacy efforts have helped Sub-SB 162 clear one of the two chambers of the Ohio Legislature. 

As a reminder, this legislation, which is sponsored by Rep. Bill Blessing (R-Colerain Twp.) would:

• Decrease Ohio’s current 24-month insurer takeback timeframe, decreasing it to one year. This will give physician practices more predictability and financial stability, which is critical as many operate with limited administrative resources.
  
  
• Extend the provider appeal period from 30 to 60 days. This acknowledges how complex and time consuming it can be for providers to respond to takeback determinations, and ensures physicians have a fair chance to submit the necessary documentation. 
  
  
• Require electronic notification of takebacks when an electronic system exists. This will help streamline communication and reduce unnecessary administrative work for practices, allowing more time to be spent on patient care.

As for next steps, SB 162 must continue its path by making its way through the Ohio House. OSMA will continue to advocate for its movement in the House and report on every step in that journey.

Stay tuned for more advocacy updates from the OSMA Government Relations team!