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Minutes for HB2307 - Committee on Health and Human Services
Short Title
Establishing non-covered dental benefits under health insurance plans and limitations on plan changes.
Minutes Content for Wed, Feb 20, 2019
Brad Smoot, representing Blue Cross/Blue Shield, provided testimony that the bill would turn a long standing contracting process on its head. Providers have entered into long term contracts which are updated and renewed regularly as to rate increases and benefits changes. This process is known as "evergreen" contracts. Providers are given 60 days to "opt out" or accept the new terms. This process is a benefit to the patients (Attachment 23).
William Sneed, representing The National Association of Dental Plans, testified the bill expands an anti-consumer law and runs the risk of harming consumers by limiting access to discounts and negotiated rates by removing the right of insurers and dentists to mutually agree on contractual terms and discounts. The bill erodes the rights of private contracts between dental carriers and dental providers. There is a real possibility that the bill would result in additional costs for consumers and dental plans with no benefits to consumers (Attachment 24) .
Written only testimony in opposition was provided by:
Mellissa Panettiere (Attachment 25)
The Chairperson closed the hearing on HB2307.
The Chairperson adjourned the meeting at 3:06PM.
