NC H373

Authorizes insurers to offer exclusive provider benefit plans (EPOs) in North Carolina, where enrollees must use contracted providers except for emergency services and medically necessary covered services.

Requires insurers to provide continuity of care protections when a contracted provider terminates, allowing patients with ongoing special conditions to continue treatment during a transitional period.

Defines four types of ongoing special conditions eligible for transition coverage: acute serious illness, chronic life-threatening/degenerative/disabling conditions, pregnancy from the second trimester, and terminal illness with six-month or less life expectancy.

Establishes transitional periods determined by the treating provider (up to 90 days), with extended periods for scheduled surgery, organ transplantation, pregnancy (through 60 days postpartum), and terminal illness (through remainder of life).

Becomes effective October 1, 2021, and applies to insurance contracts issued, renewed, or amended on or after that date.