Wednesday, April 9, 2008

Senate Says “Yes” to Uniform Health Insurance Card Requirement

The Senate approved Wednesday a bill that would require health insurers and providers to use a standardized card containing information about the a patient's coverage.

The aim of SB 135 is to force use of electronic cards that can be easily read at hospitals, clinics, physician and nurse practitioner offices and pharmacies. The bill sponsor, Sen. Shawn Mitchell, R-Broomfield, says such uniformity would reduce mistakes and consequently lower costs.

The measure, which is supported by the Colorado Medical Society, Colorado Association of Health Plans, and Gov. Bill Ritter's administration, now moves on to the House.