CT SB00182

Authorizes the Attorney General to issue "certificates of public advantage" to health care providers (physicians, chiropractors, podiatrists, naturopaths, and optometrists) entering into cooperative arrangements such as mergers, joint ventures, or practice groups, effective October 1, 2012.

Allows approved cooperative arrangements to engage in conduct that would otherwise restrict competition, provided the Attorney General finds that benefits to Connecticut residents outweigh disadvantages including reduced competition and potential impacts on quality, access, or pricing.

Requires applicants to submit a $100 fee and detailed application including the nature of the arrangement, consideration passing between parties, and evidence supporting public benefit; exempts proprietary information from public disclosure.

Mandates that health care providers with approved certificates submit annual progress reports with a $100 fee, and grants the Attorney General authority to actively supervise arrangements and revoke or modify certificates within three years if benefits no longer outweigh disadvantages.

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