AL HB397

Prohibits health insurance policies, health maintenance organization plans, and other health benefit plans from requiring dentists to provide services at plan-set fees unless those services are covered by the plan or policy.

Applies to insurance policies issued after January 1 following the bill's effective date, including individual/group accident or health insurance, hospital service contracts, HMO contracts, preferred provider organization contracts, and organized delivery system contracts.

Does not apply to health care service plans organized under Article 6 of Chapter 20 of Title 10A of the Alabama Code.

Preserves insurers' and third-party administrators' ability to restrict balance billing, waiting periods, frequency limitations, deductibles, and maximum annual benefits for covered services.

Becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor.