GOVERNOR CUOMO ANNOUNCES ACTION TO ENSURE INSURERS COMPLY WITH MENTAL HEALTH EQUITY STANDARDS
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that the Department of Financial Services has issued guidance to ensure that insurers do not unfairly discriminate against individuals facing mental health disorders. In a letter, DFS informed health insurers of their responsibility to provide the same level of coverage for mental health and substance use disorders as for medical or surgical care.
“This administration will have zero tolerance for insurance companies that seek to shirk their obligations to provide coverage for substance abuse and mental health treatment,” Governor Cuomo said.“With this action, they’re on notice as we seek to create a stronger, healthier New York for all.”
This guidance comes on the heels of recent legislation signed by Governor Cuomo that limits burdensome insurance barriers to access for treatment and medication to treat substance use disorders. Under New York Insurance Law, insurers cannot impose prior insurance authorization for inpatient treatment or for greater access to drug treatment medications. The law also requires insurers to use objective state-designated criteria to determine the level of care for individuals suffering from substance use disorder.
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