Protections sought for naloxone carriers
A proposal by Sen.
Companies that violate the rules could be fined for "unfair or deceptive acts" under the proposal.
Lovely, the
The latter, more risky group, is less likely to qualify for life insurance or other coverage.
"We're trying to save lives," Lovely told the panel on Wednesday. "So, I think it's important that anyone can fill a script and not have to worry that they're being scrutinized."
Insurers have said they support policies to make naloxone more accessible but defend the practice of reviewing prescriptions as part of applications for coverage.
"A life insurer would not be doing its job of assessing the risks it assumes on behalf of current and future policyholders if it did not notice and evaluate such a prescription," the
Nobody spoke in opposition to Lovely's bill on Wednesday, but Rep.
Barrows said most insurers give customers an opportunity to explain prescriptions for naloxone and other medicines as part of the application process.
Naloxone, also known by its brand name, Narcan, counteracts the effects of heroin, fentanyl and other opioids, and can be purchased without a prescription in
A "standing order" signed by Gov.
But lawmakers say some who carry the drug, including physicians, nurses and first-responders, are being rejected for disability, life or other long-term insurance.
Last year, the state
While insurance underwriters are permitted to review applicants' medical histories, including prescriptions, the state agency noted that naloxone, similar to some HIV drugs, "may be intended to prevent, not treat an existing illness or disease" and must be treated differently.
Lovely said existing rules lack enforcement guidelines and aren't enough to prevent insurers from denying coverage. She wants the protections woven into law.
Her proposal would require insurers to review information "to determine if an applicant has obtained such a prescription for a reason not relevant to the applicant's health."
A state program created by lawmakers several years ago purchases the life-saving medicine in bulk and then sells it to local police and fire departments at a reduced cost.
The state has also eased pharmacy regulations to give the public more access to the medicine.
Opioid-related deaths in
The
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