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Strict Interpretation of Section 2706 in New Hampshire
As of August 24, 2015, in correspondence with a state-licensed massage therapist, the state’s Office of Insurance offered its interpretation of Section 2706:
“If certain services are not covered under a compliant policy (in this case massage therapy – Ed), it is not necessary for that carrier to contract for those services. Similarly, if certain services are covered under a compliant policy, carriers still do not have to contract with any willing provider, so long as the carrier establishes a network of providers that ensures reasonable access to those services covered under the policy.”
See the complete letter in References below.
This interpretation illustrates the imprecise language of Section 2706, which conflicts with the intent of Congress: that is to bring licensed providers into health plans, under what are called network adequacy rules. The last sentence above refers to network adequacy. But “access to services covered” should include providers who are licensed to provide such services. Adding licensed providers remains the objective.
Licensed massage therapist Liz Lepene, LMT of Framingham, recipient of the state’s letter above, is voluntarily coordinating patient and provider interest around Sect. 2706 See her contact information in References.
Reference, Contacts and Complaint Submission
State Patient and Provider Advocacy
Liz Lepene, LMT, Framingham, NH: Email Ms. Lepene here
New Hampshire State Division of Insurance
State Insurance Office Letter on Section 2706
Contribute additional information about state activities and activists who are working to expand access to health care options in New Hampshire, at the short form we provide here on our State to the Nation page.