Dive Brief:
- Maine lawmakers are considering two bills aimed at bringing more transparency to narrow provider networks.
- One bill, by Democratic Rep. Paul McGowan, would require insurers to show clearly in their marketing and information materials which hospitals aren't included in plans, as well as how they'll make sure the remaining network provides reasonable access for beneficiaries.
- Another bill, introduced by Democratic Sen. Dawn Hill, would force insurers to disclose to providers why they weren't included in the network.
Dive Insight:
Health plans offering narrow network plans on state exchanges should brace themselves. It's likely Maine is going to be far from the last state to demand a closer look at the thinking behind narrow networks, including which providers get booted from the existing network and who gets to stay. Lots of other states are going to put pressure on insurers to justify themselves when they trim networks as well. Eventually, I believe this process will culminate with a federal bill attempting to do what Maine's bills are doing.