N.H. provider network rules to be reviewed

"We understand that there are concerns from citizens about how health insurance companies are able to choose providers within their networks"

The state Insurance Department is inviting “interested persons” to participate in a working group designed to revise the current state rules that define what makes a minimum “adequate” provider network for health insurance plans.

The department will hold an organizational meeting April 23 for the group, which will review the state’s network adequacy rules and make recommendations to the Legislature.

“We understand that there are concerns from citizens about how health insurance companies are able to choose providers within their networks,” said Insurance Commissioner Roger Sevigny. “We plan to look carefully at our network adequacy standards in view of new legal requirements, changes in medical practice, and the need to encourage more competition in our health insurance markets. We are committed to engaging in this discussion in an open, transparent manner.”

He said the April 23 meeting is the first step in a process intended to gather information and feedback on New Hampshire’s current rules defining network adequacy for health insurance companies and what changes might be made through the formal rulemaking process.

That process, which will take place after the working group has completed its analysis, will include a formal public hearing, an additional comment period, and approval though the state’s legislative rules committee. Any resulting changes to the rules will become effective for health plans sold in 2016, he said.

To participate in the April 23 meeting, contact