HB 1003 / Chamber Supports
The Senate Health and Provider Services Committee adopted several amendments to House Bill 1003, authored by Rep. Brad Barrett (R-Richmond), last week, addressing concerns previously raised by the Indiana Chamber. The committee unanimously approved the amended version of the bill, which now goes to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration. The Chamber also recently issued a statement in support of the revised legislation.
As amended, HB 1003 includes practical reforms to the prior authorization process by preventing the rescission of previously approved authorizations, requiring clinical peer review of denials and improving transparency around requirements and clinical criteria. These changes aim to improve consistency and reduce delays in care.
The bill also establishes a provisional credentialing framework for fully licensed physicians. Under this provision, physicians can begin treating patients for up to 60 days while their full credentialing is processed. This measure will improve workforce mobility and reduce onboarding delays for new providers.
Additionally, HB 1003 updates Indiana’s right-to-try law to permit the use of individualized investigational treatments for patients with serious or life-threatening conditions, subject to physician approval and informed consent.
The bill also includes provisions related to the site of service, ensuring that billing and reimbursement more accurately reflect the setting in which care is delivered. These changes build on reforms enacted in previous sessions and aim to align charges with the actual site of care without disrupting existing payment models. Maintaining and refining these provisions remains essential to the broader effort to improve cost transparency and consistency.
Several controversial provisions were removed from the bill during the amendment process. These include language related to the federal 340B drug pricing program and proposed restrictions on contracting terms between insurers and providers. Removing these sections helps maintain flexibility in private negotiations while preserving the bill’s objectives.
The Chamber urges members to contact their state senators and ask them to support the amended version of HB 1003. These reforms are critical to improving administrative efficiency, supporting provider access and enhancing transparency across Indiana’s healthcare system.
