The Oregon state legislature recently passed House Bill 2517 and Governor Kate Brown has signed it into law. The result of many health care professions working together for our patients, this law would be helpful in any state, as it reduces the confusion and delays many patients deal with when attempting to obtain pre-authorization for various medical procedures – some even lifesaving.

This law will reduce the administrative burden chiropractic clinic staff must deal with, while reducing costs and patient wait times for care. It requires a process for electronic submission for authorization: clarifies necessary information needed for submission of a complete utilization management request; and specifies health service authorizations by insurers. Health plans are valid for at least 60 days and 12 months for chronic disease treatment.

Oregon's new law will improve transparency and navigation through the administrative process by ensuring all chiropractic offices and their patients receive a clear reason for any denied requests; and requires insurance companies to provide notification of any changes to utilization management within a reasonable period.

This patient-centered legislation is the result of several health care professions and foundations working together for the good of our patients ... and you can do the same in your state. For example, our groups included the Oregon Chiropractic Association, Oregon Medical Association, Oregon Association of Naturopathic Physicians, Osteopathic Physicians and Surgeons of Oregon, Oregon Nurses Association, Oregon Physical Therapy Association, Oregon Association of Acupuncturists, and others.

All Oregon patients will benefit because these health care professions were willing to work together over the course of the past three Oregon legislative sessions.  I have mentioned this in prior articles, and I will say it again, there is always strength in numbers.