Reps. Munira, Lett Introduce Legislation to Protect Patients from Insurance Denials of Medically Necessary Care

COLUMBUS - State Rep. Munira Abdullahi (D-Columbus) and Rep. Crystal Lett (D-Columbus) last week introduced legislation to prevent health insurance companies from disregarding the professional judgment of licensed medical providers, including expert diagnoses and prescribed treatments.

"Access to health care in this country is not just a policy issue to me, it is a matter of justice. I see every day how structural inequities make it harder for Ohioans to receive the care they deserve, whether they live in rural towns or urban neighborhoods, work hourly jobs or salaried positions, and especially for communities that have long been marginalized. Even when people do "everything right" and secure health insurance, corporate insurance companies too often override doctors and deny treatments that are medically necessary. I have watched these denials delay lifesaving care, exhaust physicians with endless appeals, and place patients, including those fighting cancer, in impossible positions. That is not simply bureaucracy, it is a failure of accountability and a system that prioritizes profit over people. I believe health care decisions belong in the hands of trained medical professionals guided by science and ethics, not in corporate boardrooms driven by cost cutting. This legislation is about restoring dignity, trust, and equity to a system that too often fails the very people it is meant to serve," said Rep Munira.

"Healthcare companies are enjoying record profit margins, with the largest insurers in the U.S. reporting combined profits of over $71 billion for 2024. However, instead of quality of care improving, we only see shareholder payout increasing. While Ohioans are being forced to ration medication, experiencing higher premiums, and forgoing necessary medical procedures, a select few enjoy massive payouts. This bill will redirect the healthcare industry back to protecting patients by curbing the practice of health insurers overriding physician recommendations. These internal cost-saving measures often delay or prevent critical care, thus prioritizing profit at the expense of patients," said Rep. Lett.

This bill now awaits committee referral in the Ohio House.