Ohioans Entitled to More Information Under Health Insurance Rule

Ohioans will be able to get more information about healthcare provider networks from health insurance companies beginning in 2016.

The rule taking effect in January will require insurance companies to update their directories of those providers at least every three months.

The Columbus Dispatch reports that the rule put in place by the Ohio Department of Insurance also says insurance carriers’ directories must note whether doctors and other providers are accepting new patients and give specific geographic locations where providers would be considered “in-network.”

Consumer advocates say that will help consumers and regulators determine whether insurance companies have an adequate number of doctors, hospitals and other providers in their networks.

The new rule will allow people shopping for coverage to get easier access to health insurers’ online provider networks.