NY A06173

Adds "creative arts therapist" to the list of licensed mental health professionals whose outpatient care must be covered by health insurance policies that cover psychiatric or psychological services.

Applies the requirement to individual policies under section 3216, group policies under section 3221, and health service/medical expense indemnity corporation contracts under section 4303 of the insurance law.

Clarifies that creative arts therapists must be licensed pursuant to article 163 of the education law and specifies that the requirement does not modify their scope of practice or create a new mandated health benefit.

Requires the state board for mental health practitioners to maintain a list of licensed creative arts therapists qualified for reimbursement under these insurance coverage requirements.

Takes effect immediately and applies to all policies and contracts issued, renewed, modified, altered or amended on or after the effective date.