VA HB424

Prohibits health insurance carriers from restricting in-network providers from referring patients or specimens to any in-network clinical laboratory or pathology service provider of their choice under the health plan terms.

Applies to individual and group accident and sickness insurance, including health benefit plans and state employee health insurance coverage administered under § 2.2-2818.

Exempts referrals that would violate the Virginia Practitioner Self-Referral Act or the federal anti-kickback statute (42 U.S.C. § 1320a-7b).

Extends the prohibition to health maintenance organizations (HMOs) and plans administered by the Department of Medical Assistance Services under Medicaid (Title XIX) and CHIP (Title XXI).

Removes jurisdiction from the State Corporation Commission to adjudicate individual disputes arising from this provision.