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SB 890

Health Care - As enacted, revises present law relative to a patient's electronic health record and requires a health insurance entity to establish and maintain a provider access API and a prior authorization API; makes related changes. - Amends TCA Title 8; Title 47; Title 56; Title 63 and Title 68.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026)

Tennessee mandates insurers create APIs enabling provider access to patient records and prior authorization requests, effective July 2025, to improve healthcare efficiency.

Pub. Ch. 447
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Bill Summary · SB 890

Legislative bill overview

SB 890 requires Tennessee health insurance entities to establish and maintain two key application programming interfaces (APIs): one for provider access to patient data and another for streamlined prior authorization requests. The bill modernizes how healthcare providers and insurers exchange information electronically and modifies existing laws across multiple Tennessee code titles to implement these requirements.

Why is this important

Healthcare providers currently face significant administrative burdens when accessing patient records or requesting authorization for treatments from insurers. By requiring standardized APIs, this bill aims to reduce delays in care delivery, lower administrative costs, and improve patient outcomes by enabling faster information exchange. This aligns with federal initiatives pushing for interoperability in healthcare systems.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Health insurers may argue the technical infrastructure investments are substantial, potentially leading to higher premiums or reduced coverage options
  • Security and privacy concerns: Creating multiple access points for patient data raises questions about whether adequate cybersecurity protections will prevent breaches of sensitive health information
  • Compliance timelines: The July 1, 2025 effective date provides limited time for insurers and providers to build compliant systems, which some stakeholders may view as unrealistic
  • API standardization: Ambiguity about which technical standards insurers must follow could lead to inconsistent implementation across different entities

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

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