Sec. 1352.006.  DETERMINATION OF MEDICAL NECESSITY; EXTENSION OF COVERAGE.  (a)  In this section, "utilization review" has the meaning assigned by Section 4201.002.
(b)  Notwithstanding Chapter 4201 or any other law relating to the determination of medical necessity under this code, a health benefit plan shall respond to a person requesting utilization review or appealing for an extension of coverage based on an allegation of medical necessity not later than three business days after the date on which the person makes the request or submits the appeal.  The person must make the request or submit the appeal in the manner prescribed by the terms of the plan's health insurance policy or agreement, contract, evidence of coverage, or similar coverage document.  To comply with the requirements of this section, the health benefit plan issuer must respond through a direct telephone contact made by a representative of the issuer.  This subsection does not apply to a small employer health benefit plan.
Added by Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 877 (H.B. 1919), Sec. 5, eff. September 1, 2007.