CT SB00025

Requires health carriers to issue immediate electronic authorization to pharmacies to dispense a temporary supply of prescribed drugs (excluding Schedule II and III controlled substances) when a covered person files a grievance or requests review of an adverse determination.

The temporary drug supply must be sufficient for the duration of the grievance or review process, with confirmation that payment will be available.

Health carriers must confirm with the prescribing provider within 24 hours of issuing authorization that the provider concurs with dispensing the temporary supply; if the provider does not concur, the carrier must cancel the authorization.

Exceptions apply to grievances or reviews concerning substitution of generic drugs or alternative brand name drugs for prescribed brand name drugs, unless the prescriber specified no substitution.

All provisions take effect January 1, 2018, and apply to adverse determination reviews under sections 38a-591d, 38a-591e, 38a-591f, and 38a-591g of Connecticut General Statutes.