CT SB00480

Permits health care providers (physicians, chiropractors, podiatrists, naturopaths, and optometrists) to apply to the Attorney General for a "certificate of public advantage" to engage in cooperative arrangements including mergers, joint ventures, and fee negotiations with managed care organizations.

Attorney General must review applications within 90 days and approve only if benefits (such as improved quality, cost efficiency, access, and reduced duplication) outweigh disadvantages including reduced competition and potential adverse impacts on consumers.

Approved cooperative arrangements are exempt from antitrust laws under chapter 624 of the general statutes, but the Attorney General retains supervisory authority through annual progress reports and may modify or revoke certificates within three years of issuance.

Requires managed care organizations to negotiate in good faith with parties to approved cooperative arrangements, with civil penalties up to $25,000 per day for violations and violations deemed unfair or deceptive trade practices.

Effective October 1, 2010; applications and annual progress reports each require a $100 fee, with proprietary information kept confidential.