HEALTH CARE PROVIDER COVERAGE

SB 15 requires all health insurance plans in New Mexico (including group plans, HMOs, and nonprofit plans) to include every licensed healthcare provider - such as doctors, nurses, therapists, and other practitioners - within their legal scope of practice, provided the provider agrees to the plan's terms. The bill does not force insurers to contract with providers but mandates that if they do, all licensed providers must be included. It allows insurers to set different payment rates based on quality or performance but prohibits excluding providers solely due to their license type. The law takes effect July 1, 2026, directly affecting insurers, healthcare providers, and patients seeking coverage for physical or behavioral health services.