NC S248

All insurers offering health benefit plans in North Carolina, including the State Health Plan, must provide identification cards that contain policyholder obligations for copayments for primary care, specialty care, urgent care, and emergency room visits.

Health benefit plan identification cards must include a phone number or website address where subscribers, members, or service providers can obtain eligibility confirmation, benefits verification, prior authorization information, participating provider lists, employer group numbers, and special mental health benefits if applicable.

Health benefit plan identification cards must clearly indicate whether the plan is fully insured or self-funded, with fully insured plans noted using the phrase "fully insured" to inform consumers that the Department can provide regulatory assistance.

The State Health Plan must comply with G.S. 58-3-247 regarding insurance identification card requirements, added as a new coverage and operational mandate.

The act becomes effective January 1, 2022, and applies to contracts entered into, amended, or renewed on or after that date.