New Mexico Governor: Legislation to Reduce Cost of Health Insurance
Governor, Rep. Armstrong introduce legislation to reduce cost of health insurance and medical expenses
SANTA FE, NM (STL.News) Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham and Rep. Deborah Armstrong on Monday announced the introduction of legislation that establishes a new fund that will reduce the cost of health insurance and medical expenses for tens of thousands of working New Mexico families.
“Even before the pandemic, access to high-quality and affordable health care for every New Mexican was a non-negotiable priority of my administration,” Gov. Lujan Grisham said. “House Bill 122 will expand coverage for up to 23,000 uninsured New Mexicans in its first year and drive down premiums for tens of thousands of residents who receive coverage through the state exchange. This is a real difference-maker for New Mexicans.”
Credit Russell Toal, New Mexico Superintendent of Insurance / Courtesy photo SANTA FE, NM – The New Mexico Office of Superintendent of Insurance (“OSI”) has directed all health insurers operating in the state to cover COVID-19 vaccinations and related services at no cost to a patient.
“Costs must not be a barrier to getting a COVID-19 vaccine,” said
Superintendent Russell Toal. “Having a number of safe and effective vaccines available marks a turning point in the fight against this deadly virus – but a vaccine is only effective if people can afford to get vaccinated.”
Every major medical plan must cover any costs associated with the administration of a COVID-19 vaccine for every covered New Mexican. Patient cost sharing – coinsurance, copayments and deductibles - cannot be applied, regardless of whether or not the provider administering the vaccine is in a health plan’s network. OSI’s order requires all insurers and health plans to immediately comply with