§ 356r — Access to obstetrical and gynecological care

(a) An individual or group policy of accident and health insurance or a managed care plan amended, delivered, issued, or renewed in this State must not require authorization or referral by the plan, issuer, or any person, including a primary care provider, for any covered individual who seeks coverage for obstetrical or gynecological care provided by any licensed or certified participating health care professional who specializes in obstetrics or gynecology. (a-5) If a policy, contract, or certificate requires or allows a covered individual to designate a primary care provider and provides coverage for any obstetrical or gynecological care, the insurer shall provide the notice required under 45 CFR 147.138(a)(4) and 149.310(a)(4) in all circumstances required under that provision. (a-6) The requirements of this Section shall be construed in a manner consistent with the requirements for access to and notice of obstetrical and gynecological care in 45 CFR 147.138 and 45 CFR 149.310. (b) Nothing in this Section prevents a health insurance issuer from requiring a participating obstetrical or gynecological health care professional to agree, with respect to individuals covered under a policy of accident and health insurance, to otherwise adhere to the health insurance issuer's policies and procedures, including procedures regarding referrals and obtaining prior authorization and providing services pursuant to a treatment plan, if any, approved by the issuer. (c) (Blank). (d) Nothing in this Section shall be construed to preclude a health insurance issuer from requiring that a participating obstetrical or gynecological health care professional notify the covered individual's primary care physician or the issuer of treatment decisions or update centralized medical records.

Legislative History

(Source: P.A. 103-718, eff. 1-1-25 .)