New rule requires insurers to notify consumers of appeal rights and consumer protection services

08/03/2020

OLYMPIA, Wash. – As of Aug. 1, all insurers in Washington state that take action against a policyholder must include information in the notices about the right to appeal and how to contact the insurance commissioner’s Consumer Protection division if they need assistance. 

“Insurance companies interact with us daily and understand our role,” said Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler. “And for the most part, they do right by their policyholders. But we’re well aware that many people have never heard of our services. We hope this new requirement will help educate people about our…

Kreidler extends emergency order on surprising billing and lab fees for coronavirus testing

07/29/2020

OLYMPIA, Wash. – Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler extended his emergency order protecting consumers from receiving surprise bills for lab fees related to medically-necessary diagnostic testing for COVID-19 until Aug. 27. 

His order applies to both in-state and out-of-state laboratories, when a provider orders diagnostic testing for COVID-19.

“We know people are under tremendous stress as we fight this pandemic,” said Kreidler. “We want to make sure they're not worrying about receiving a surprise medical bill while trying to take care of their own or their loved one…

Kreidler extends emergency order waiving cost-sharing for coronavirus testing until Aug. 27

07/29/2020

OLYMPIA, Wash. – Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler extended his emergency order  to Aug. 27 requiring health insurers to waive copays and deductibles for any consumer requiring testing for coronavirus (COVID-19).

Insurers also must continue: 

Allowing a one-time early refill for prescription drugs. Suspending any prior authorization requirement for treatment or testing of COVID-19. In addition, if an insurer does not have enough medical providers in its network to provide testing or treatment for COVID-19, it must allow enrollees to be treated by another…

Kreidler extends emergency order on telehealth coverage for another 30 days

07/17/2020

OLYMPIA, Wash. – Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler extended his emergency order directing all state-regulated health insurers to make additional coverage changes to aid consumers during the coronavirus pandemic. His order is in effect until Aug. 16 and requires health insurers to:

Continue coverage for providing telehealth via methods including telephone and video chat tools such as Facetime, Facebook Messenger video chat, Google Hangout video, Skype and Go-to-Meeting.  Cover all medically necessary diagnostic testing for flu and certain other viral respiratory…