Health Insurers in Kansas Support Network-Only Plan Proposal

Insurance providers have asked Kansas lawmakers to approve a measure that would allow them to offer health plans requiring customers to only use the insurers’ network.

The plans are called Exclusive Provider Organization, or EPOs. The Topeka Capital-Journal reports the current legislation would also mandate referrals from primary care physicians before covering specialty care.

Aetna, UnitedHealth Group and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas City have supported the proposal, which they say would help keep down the cost of insurance.

Rep. Willie Dove, R-Bonner Springs, has expressed concern, saying the proposal could limit customer choice.

The Kansas legislation remains in the House Insurance and Financial Institutions Committee.