New Law Would Make it Easier for Patients to Bypass "Step Therapy"
Thursday, March 7th, 2019 -- 8:01 AM
(WRN) -A law heading through the state legislature would make it easier for patients to bypass what's called 'step therapy.'A group of legislators want to make it easier to dispute what's called step therapy, insurance policies that require you to start with less expensive treatments for conditions. Representative John Nygren says that while step therapy has its place holding costs down, requiring you take medications against your doctor's wishes can cause serious problems.
"Maybe it has side effects that make it impossible for you to go about your daily activities, your job, taking care of your family, whatever it might be."
Nygren says the bill would carve out exceptions and require companies to act quickly in disputes.
"To make sure that yes, while cost is important, there are other criteria that are considered."
The legislation would allow for exemptions from these policies, and require companies to respond to those requests quickly. Those exceptions include having tried those treatments with other insurance companies, and when drugs would cause dangerous interactions. Nygren says the bill does have bipartisan support, including from the Governor's office.
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