utilization review; prior authorization; requirements

SB 1512 requires health insurance companies in Arizona to honor prior authorizations for 90 days when a patient switches plans, unless the service is excluded from the new plan. It also mandates that prior authorizations for chronic conditions remain valid for at least one year, and insurers must post clear, plain-language explanations of their authorization rules online with 60 days' notice before changes. The bill applies directly to patients changing insurance, providers needing to renew authorizations, and insurers managing coverage rules. Key provisions prevent insurers from requiring new authorizations for the same treatment during the validity period, reducing disruptions in care.