Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield announced an unpopular policy to cap anesthesiology coverage in Connecticut, New York, and Missouri, sparking criticism from patients and state officials. However, the state’s comptroller has reversed the decision, citing widespread concern and opposition.
The initial policy would have limited anesthesia coverage to a specific time frame, excluding those under 22 and maternity care. Anesthesiologists argued that every patient is unique, and surgery times vary depending on age, health, and procedure complexity.
Comptroller Sean Scanlon expressed relief after discussing the issue with Anthem, stating that the company will no longer implement the policy. “People were outraged and really concerned about this policy,” he said. Connecticut Attorney General William Tong also criticized the policy, saying it was unfair to expect doctors to intervene in ongoing surgeries.
New York has since joined Connecticut in rejecting the plan, potentially saving patients from denied coverage due to prolonged surgery times. The reversal is attributed to public pressure and advocacy from the medical community.
Source: https://www.wfsb.com/2024/12/05/anthem-backtracks-anesthesiology-cap-policy-ct