Continuation of Extension of Approved Prior Authorizations

Indiana Department ofInsurance September 1, 2021 Bulletin 261 CONTINUATION OF EXTENSION OF APPROVED PRIOR AUTHORIZATIONS Due to the declaration of a public health emergency throughout the State ofIndiana as a result of the Coronavims Disease 2019 ("COVID-19") and the issuance of Governor Holcomb's Executive Order 21-24, on September 1, 2021, the Indiana Department oflnsurance ("IDOI") issues this Bulletin to address certain measures to alleviate the impact ofCOVID-19 on hospitals, providers, and Hoosiers. This Bulletin is directed to all insurers issuing accident and sickness insurance policies, as defined at IC§ 27-8-5-1, and all health maintenance organizations ("HMOs"), as defined at IC§ 27-13-1-19, (collectively, "insurers"). Due to a rise in COVID-19 cases, increased demands are straining hospital systems throughout the state. On September 1, 2021, Governor Holcomb issued Executive Order 21-24 ("EO 21­ 24"), which directed licensed hospitals to ensure sufficient capacity and staffing, and where necessary, to reprioritize or postpone non-emergent surgeries or procedures. To support hospitals, providers, and Hoosiers whose surgeries or procedures have been delayed or postponed, the IDOI strongly encourages insurers in Indiana to extend prior authorization timeframes for open and approved authorizations for one hundred eighty (180) days from the expiration date ofthe prior authorization. This extension applies only to prior authorizations for non-emergent surgeries or procedures postponed to ensure sufficient COVID-19 response capabilities. Questions regarding this Bulletin should be directed to Heather Alford at halford@idoi.in.gov. INDIANA DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE d"'"I;sz_ 2;.i?,_..__,1 Amy L. Beard, Insurance Commissioner