2013-08 Section 38-71-280 Autism Spectrum Disorder Maximum Benefit Coverage for Behavioral Therapy

South Carolina Department of Insurance NIKKI R. HALEY Governor Capilol Center 1201 Main Slr~t. Suile 1000 Columbill. Soulh CoroUno 29201 RAYMOND G. FARMER Dirrdor TO: Mamng Address: r.D. Bo. 100105, Columbi., S.C. 29202·3105 Telephone: (803) 737·6t,;o BULLETIN NUMBER 2013-08 All Insurers and HMOs Writing Accident and Health Insurance Coverage in South Carolina and the South Carolina State Employees Health Plan FROM: Raymond G. Farmer Director of Insurance f(. C. Fe SUBJECT: Section 38-71-280, Autism Spectrum Disorder Maximum benefit for coverage for behavioral therapy DATE: August 21, 2013 I. PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF THIS BULLETIN The purpose of this bulletin is to specify the maximum benefit for coverage for behavioral therapy in accordance with subsection E of § 38-71-280. This subsection requires that annual adjustmenls of the maximum benefit for coverage for behavioral therapy reflect any change from the previous year in the Consumer Price Index. S.c. Code Section 38-71-280 (E) provides as follows: ..... Coverage for behavioral therapy is subject to a fifty thousand dollar maximum benefit per year. Beginning one year after the effective date of this act, this maximum benefit shall be adjusted annually on January I of each calendar year to reflect any change from the previous year in the current Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers, as published by the United Slates Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Sialislics." The Department has reviewed the current Consumer Price Index and determined that the maximum benefit for coverage for behavioral therapy shall be increased to $53,100 for the calendar year beginning January 1,2014. II. QUESTIONS Any questions or concerns about this Bulletin should be sub milled in writing to the attention of: Andrew Dvorine, ASA, MAAA Life Actuary South Carolina Department of Insurance 145 King Street, Suite 228 Charleston, South Carolina 2940 I Facsimile: (843) 722-6105 Email: advorine@doLsc.gov Bulletins nrc the method by which the Director of Insuranc~ formally commun ic~lcs with persons and entities regulated by (hI: Department. Bulletins are departmental interpretations of Soulh Carolina insuronce: laws and regulations llfld provide guidance on the Depnnmen"s enforcement approach. Bulletins do not provide legal advice. Readers should consult applicable statutes and regulations or contact an attorney (or legal advice or for additional infonnation on the impact of thai legislation on their specific situation.