ASSEMBLY PASSES LEGISLATION TO EXPAND ACCESS TO ACUPUNCTURE SERVICES IN NEW YORK

The following information was released by the New York State Assembly:

Speaker Carl Heastie and Assemblymember Ron Kim today announced that the Assembly has passed legislation that requires mandatory health insurance coverage for acupuncture services (A.622, Kim).

"Expanding access to acupuncture services in New York ensures that those suffering from chronic illnesses can access the treatment they need to improve their quality of life," said Speaker Heastie. "New York is committed to leading the way in providing quality and affordable care and will always work to ensure that New Yorkers have coverage for the spectrum of treatment that keeps our communities healthy."

"This bill is about ensuring that New Yorkers with chronic pain and illnesses have access to an important and often life changing treatment," said Assemblymember Kim. "Acupuncture improves the quality of life for many and has been shown to be an effective alternative to opioids. Requiring insurance coverage for these services greatly improves access to this vital treatment and affordability across our state."

"Acupuncture has long been recognized in Eastern medicine for its ability to promote healing, manage pain, and support overall well-being. Yet without insurance coverage, this time-tested treatment still remains out of reach for too many New Yorkers," said Assemblymember Grace Lee. "I'm proud to co-sponsor this legislation to require insurance companies to cover acupuncture, helping ensure that more New Yorkers have access to this important and proven healthcare option. Thank you Assemblymember Ron Kim for his leadership on this legislation."

This legislation will require large group insurance policies to cover acupuncture treatment. Currently in New York State, acupuncture is not provided as an essential health benefit and is not covered by the Affordable Care Act enabled basic health plan. This bill expands access to this critical treatment beyond the federal requirements and reduces the harmful risks associated with alternative options such as opioids.

Acupuncture is a cost-effective treatment for patients with chronic illnesses that has been shown to be effective in treating conditions such as chronic pain, nausea, headaches, anxiety, depression, insomnia and infertility.