OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Carl Newton, R-Cherokee, this week commented on the Ensuring Transparency in Prior Authorization Act being signed into law. 

House Bill 3190 establishes timeframes and policies for prior authorizations by insurance companies when health care services and procedures are sought.

"I'm very pleased we were able to get this act passed and signed into law," Newton said. "This will be great for Oklahoman patients seeking care as it will allow their doctors more time to spend with them and less time on administrative functions. The act also ensures medical professionals are the ones determining what qualifies for prior authorization."

Sen. Jessica Garvin, R-Duncan, is Senate author of the measure.

“I’m thrilled House Bill 3190 has been signed into law to simplify the prior authorization process and make it more transparent for physicians and patients alike,” Garvin said. “This measure will allow doctors to focus on treating patients instead of getting bogged down by tedious paperwork. Notably, this law also ensures medical professionals and their patients, not insurance bureaucrats, are determining the best course of treatment.”

The act requires health insurance companies to:

• Employ licensed medical professionals to make determinations that deny care;
• Modernize authorization systems;
• Publish prior authorization requirements online; and
• Honor prior authorizations for at least 45 days, or six months in the case of chronic conditions.

Newton said he worked with multiple health care providers, insurance groups and patient advocates to ensure the language is clear for everyone involved. 

The bill passed both the House and the Senate unanimously. It takes effect Jan. 1, 2025.