MD HB11

Repeals the June 30, 2025 termination date for provisions requiring health insurers to establish referral procedures for members to access out-of-network specialists when in-network options are unavailable or inaccessible

Requires carriers to provide additional assistance to members in identifying and arranging coverage for out-of-network mental health or substance use disorder providers when standard referral procedures fail to secure access

Prohibits carriers from imposing utilization review requirements on approved out-of-network referrals beyond what would be required for in-network providers

Mandates that mental health and substance use disorder services received from out-of-network providers under the referral procedure cost no more to the patient than in-network rates for the duration of the treatment plan

Applies to health benefit plans issued, delivered, or renewed in Maryland on or after January 1, 2026, with the law approved by Governor Wes Moore on May 20, 2025