NC S661

Requires insurers to provide mental health benefits no less favorable than physical illness benefits in group health benefit plans, including application of the same coverage limits (deductibles, coinsurance, copayments, maximum out-of-pocket limits, and annual and lifetime dollar limits).

Establishes minimum required benefits of 30 combined inpatient and outpatient days per year and 30 office visits per year for mental illnesses, though plans may apply different durational limits than physical illnesses.

Excludes from coverage requirements autism spectrum disorder (299.00), substance-related disorders (291.0-292.9 and 303.0-305.9), sexual dysfunctions not due to organic disease (302.70-302.79), and "V" codes in the DSM-5.

Permits insurers to apply utilization review criteria to determine medical necessity for mental health treatment in a manner consistent with determinations for other diseases, with substance use disorder determinations based on evidence-based criteria from leading medical necessity guideline sources.

Becomes effective October 1, 2023, and applies to insurance contracts issued, renewed, or amended on or after that date.