New ODI rule requires insurers to reveal network changes

A bulletin issued this week by the Ohio Department of Insurance requires all insurers operating in the state to tell costumers when hospitals or large physician groups leave their network (Source: “Insurers must reveal changes to networks,” Cleveland Plain Dealer, Jan. 26, 2009).

Insurance companies also must tell ODI how they will inform consumers. The rule does not apply to Medicaid HMOs or specialty or supplemental health-care groups.