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SB 51

AN ACT RELATING TO INSURANCE -- ACCIDENT AND SICKNESS INSURANCE POLICIES -- PHYSICAL THERAPY COPAY

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jonathon Acosta and 8 co-sponsors

Rhode Island bill to cap physical therapy copayments in insurance policies, aiming to improve patient access to rehabilitation services while potentially affecting premiums.

03/11/2025 Committee recommended measure be held for further study
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Bill Summary · SB 51

Legislative bill overview

SB 51 would regulate copayment amounts that insurance companies can charge for physical therapy services under accident and sickness insurance policies in Rhode Island. The bill aims to make physical therapy more financially accessible by limiting out-of-pocket costs patients must pay at the point of care.

Why is this important

Physical therapy is often a necessary treatment for injuries, post-surgical recovery, and chronic conditions, but high copayments can deter patients from seeking or continuing treatment. By capping copays, the bill could improve access to rehabilitation services while potentially affecting insurance premiums and industry practices across the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost allocation debate: Insurers may argue that copay caps will increase premium costs for all policyholders, while patient advocates counter that current copays already burden consumers
  • Competitive impact: Limiting copays could affect insurance companies' profitability and pricing strategies, potentially reducing plan options or increasing premiums statewide
  • Definition and scope: The bill's specific copay limits are not detailed in available information, leaving questions about whether caps apply uniformly across all therapy types and plan categories

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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