Health insurance; prior authorization; utilization review organizations; insurers; exemptions; effective date.

HB 4462 streamlines prior authorization for health insurance in Oklahoma, directly affecting insurers, utilization review organizations, and network providers (like hospitals and doctors). It requires insurers to automatically approve non-urgent authorization requests if they don’t act within 72 hours plus one business day, and mandates clear communication when additional information is requested. The bill specifies that providers must receive direct contact details and a chance to discuss medical necessity with decision-makers, and it clarifies exemptions for certain providers. These changes aim to reduce delays in patient care while maintaining insurer oversight of medical necessity.